Japan has the 2nd highest life expectancy in the world at 85 years. Ironically, hiring decision-makers at many companies, both foreign and domestic, seem to believe that the over 35s are unable to be productive in a work environment (except, of course, they themselves and their C-suite).
Yes, yes, it’s ‘succession planning’ they say, or the 42-year-old manager ‘feels uncomfortable’ having a report who is two years older than him, as a rejection email leaves their Outbox.
But in a supposedly ‘talent short market’, you must adapt or your business will fail.
I don’t know about you, but I probably spent too much of my 20s hungover, operating at ‘less than 100% capacity’. Now, at the ripe old age of 48, I get out of bed at 6:00 am most mornings (a time I often used to get home at in earlier years). Despite my declining years, I still somehow manage to get work done. We’re all at different stages of life and have value to contribute at each stage.
So, when a resume lands on your desk and you suspect a grey hair, look for a reason to set up a call and see if you can work together, not simply reject based on a piece of paper and a dose of prejudice.
Let’s act like we hope to reach 50 someday too.
Further reading: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2020/01/28/commentary/world-commentary/age-discrimination-bad-business/
Yes! I think those of us with more experience, who are a bit older than mid-thirties, bring a LOT to the table. We’re more stable in our lives and you’ll never find someone over 40 complaining that they’re “bored,” or “there’s nothing to do.” We are self-motivated. Point us in the right direction and you don’t have to worry about whether or not we’re actually working. At 49, I’m the oldest member of my team and I have no problems keeping up. It’s great! The younger members keep me from growing stagnant and I feel like my experience is valued and appreciated. Most days, I don’t feel like someone who is approaching 50, although there are days when my knees tell me otherwise. I think constantly pushing myself to learn new skills is one of the best ways to fight the negative affects of aging.