I Was Hired for Being Older: Navigating Age Discrimination and Your Rights

Age discrimination in the workplace remains a pressing issue, impacting employees across Boston and Massachusetts. While most people associate age discrimination with being denied opportunities, it can also manifest in less obvious ways, such as being hired specifically because of your age. If you believe your age played an undue role in your employment—positively or negatively—it’s essential to understand your rights and protections under the law. At Gordon Law Group LLP, we help employees navigate complex workplace issues, including age discrimination, to ensure their rights are upheld.

Age Discrimination in the Workplace

Age discrimination occurs when an employer makes decisions based on an employee’s age rather than their qualifications or performance. Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), employees aged 40 and older are protected from discrimination in hiring, promotions, compensation, and terminations. Massachusetts law also reinforces these protections, ensuring workers are judged on their contributions rather than stereotypes about their age.

The Challenges of Being Hired “Because You’re Older”

Being hired because of your age may initially seem flattering, but it can lead to problematic outcomes:

• Tokenism: Employers may hire older employees to meet diversity or inclusion quotas rather than valuing their skills.
• Unrealistic Expectations: Employers might assume older employees will automatically bring leadership or stability, creating undue pressure.
• Isolation: Being significantly older than colleagues may lead to workplace culture challenges or exclusion.
• Future Discrimination: Employers who hire based on age may also stereotype you in other areas, affecting promotions or job security.

If you’re navigating these challenges, it’s essential to understand your protections under laws like the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act.

Recognizing Subtle Age Discrimination

Age discrimination isn’t always overt. It can show up in subtle ways, such as:

• Casual remarks or jokes about your age, like calling you the “team parent.”
• Assigning tasks based on assumptions about your experience or capabilities.
• Overlooking older employees for promotions or professional development opportunities.
• Pay disparities justified by non-monetary “value” you bring to the team.

These practices, though seemingly minor, can create a hostile or unequal work environment.

Your Rights as an Older Employee

Both federal and state laws provide protections against age discrimination, including:

• ADEA: Protects employees aged 40+ from discrimination in hiring, firing, and other employment practices.
• Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act: Offers additional protections, particularly for employees at smaller companies not covered by federal law.
• Reasonable Accommodations: Older employees with disabilities are also protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

What to Do If You Suspect Age Discrimination

If you believe age discrimination is affecting your employment, consider taking these steps:

• Document Everything: Keep records of comments, decisions, or actions you believe are related to your age.
• Review Employer Policies: Most employers have policies against discrimination. Understanding these can clarify your next steps.
• File an Internal Complaint: Report discrimination to HR or management. This step is often required before pursuing legal action.
• Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with an attorney ensures you understand your options and rights.

In cases where age discrimination leads to termination, exploring the concept of discriminatory termination may be vital to building your case.

How Gordon Law Group LLP Can Help

Age discrimination cases can be legally complex. At Gordon Law Group LLP, we specialize in employment law and have extensive experience advocating for employees facing workplace discrimination. Whether it’s addressing age-related bias in hiring, promotions, or terminations, our team is here to help.

We will:

• Evaluate your case during a free consultation to determine if discrimination occurred.
• Assist in documenting evidence and building a compelling claim.
• Represent you in negotiations or litigation to seek fair compensation.

If your situation involves broader workplace changes, we can also help you navigate issues arising from Boston’s dynamic job market.

Contact Gordon Law Group LLP Today

If you’ve experienced age discrimination in hiring or other workplace decisions, Gordon Law Group LLP is here to help. Contact us at (800) 403-7755 or visit www.gordonllp.com to schedule your free consultation.

No employee should face bias or unfair treatment based on their age. Let us stand by your side to ensure your rights are protected and justice is served.