90% of older workers face age discrimination in promotion and pay: Resume Now

CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — A recent survey by Resume Now has uncovered alarming rates of age discrimination in the American workplace. 

The “2024 State of Ageism in the Workplace Survey” involved 1,003 U.S.-based workers aged 40 or older on May 6, 2024. It found that 90% of older workers have experienced ageism in their professional lives, with consequences ranging from lower salaries to missed promotion opportunities.

Pay disparities and career stagnation

Nearly half (49%) of the surveyed older workers claim they earn less than their younger colleagues for performing the same job. This wage gap is particularly pronounced when compared to Gen Z and younger millennial workers. 

The issue extends beyond compensation, as 22% of employees over 40 report being overlooked for challenging assignments, while 16% believe their employers consistently favor younger, potentially less qualified candidates for promotions.

The impact of this discrimination is far-reaching, with almost all participants stating that ageism limits their access to professional development and training services. This systematic exclusion creates significant barriers to career growth and advancement for older workers.

Mental health toll and HR response

For those experiencing ageism, the emotional toll is notable. Of the surveyed workers aged 40 or older, 45% reported feelings of isolation and loneliness, while 44% said the bias led to depression, and 36% noted an increase in anxiety.

Despite these alarming statistics, addressing ageism remains challenging. While 94% of affected workers have reported incidents to their HR departments, only 45% say the situation was mediated. 

The outcomes of these reports vary:

• 37% resulted in a warning for the ageist coworker
• 30% led to minor repercussions without termination
• 23% ended in the offender’s termination
• 5% saw no action taken by the administration

As America’s workforce continues to age, the report underscores the need for HR leaders to actively combat age-based discrimination and ensure that every employee, regardless of age, has equal access to career opportunities and respect in the workplace.