Fearing Gen Z is keeping them out of tech jobs, older workers are filing age complaints in droves

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Ageism in the Tech Industry

Introduction

The average age of a startup founder is around 45, despite the popular perception that successful tech entrepreneurs are young. However, the tech industry is increasingly favoring younger employees, with a higher proportion of 25- to 39-year-olds compared to the overall U.S. workforce. This trend has led to concerns about ageism and discrimination in the sector, as older workers find themselves being overlooked for job opportunities. This report explores the impact of ageism in the tech industry and its implications for workplace diversity and talent acquisition.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
2. Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
3. Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The Age Gap in the Tech Industry

According to a report from the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission, the proportion of 25- to 39-year-olds in tech jobs is significantly higher than in the overall U.S. workforce. Meanwhile, the percentage of tech workers over 40 is declining. This age difference between tech founders and their younger employees creates a disconnect in the sector. Experts question why middle-aged founders are not implementing policies that are more favorable to people of their own age group. The preference for younger employees not only affects workplace diversity but also potentially drains companies of valuable talent.

Ageism and Discrimination

Age-related complaints in the tech industry are on the rise, with almost 20% of charges filed for age-related reasons. Older generations are more likely to file these complaints, citing discrimination or retaliation. This proportion is higher than in other industries, where age-related charges average around 15%. The preference for younger employees exacerbates the lack of diversity in the tech industry, which is already dominated by white males. The focus on youth overlooks the value that older workers can bring to the table in terms of experience and diverse perspectives.

The Impact on Talent Acquisition

Companies that prioritize hiring younger workers may initially benefit from their hunger and innovation. However, this narrow perspective can limit creativity and innovation in the long run. By exclusively targeting younger applicants, companies may also fall into the trap of discrimination, as they overlook the value of seasoned talent. This approach becomes expensive when companies have to continuously hire workers in high demand. On the other hand, companies that recognize the value of age diversity have access to a pool of underutilized workers who can contribute to their success.

The Importance of Age Diversity

Research suggests that meaningful relationships with different demographics, including age, promote innovation and divergent thinking. A more diverse workforce, including employees of different ages, can provide multiple perspectives and contribute to better decision-making. Managing a diverse workforce may be challenging, but it is essential for fostering a culture of innovation and creativity.

Conclusion

The tech industry’s preference for younger employees and the lack of age diversity pose challenges for workplace inclusivity and talent acquisition. Ageism and discrimination in the sector not only limit opportunities for older workers but also hinder innovation and diversity. Recognizing the value of age diversity and implementing policies that promote inclusivity can benefit companies in the long run. As the workforce of older Americans continues to grow, the tech industry must navigate the choice between hiring young talent or tapping into the pool of experienced workers. By embracing age diversity, companies can contribute to achieving the SDGs of decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, and strong institutions.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Specific Targets Under the SDGs:

• SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
• SDG 16.5: Substantially reduce corruption and bribery in all their forms.

Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

• Proportion of 25- to 39-year-olds in tech jobs compared to the overall U.S. workforce.
• Proportion of tech workers over 40 years old.
• Number of tech workers under 25 years old.
• Number of age-related charges filed in the tech industry.
• Proportion of age-related charges in other industries.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

The specific targets identified based on the article’s content are SDG 8.5 (full and productive employment and decent work for all) and SDG 10.2 (social, economic, and political inclusion of all).

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include the proportion of 25- to 39-year-olds in tech jobs compared to the overall U.S. workforce, the proportion of tech workers over 40 years old, the number of tech workers under 25 years old, and the number of age-related charges filed in the tech industry.

4. Create a table with three columns titled ‘SDGs, Targets, and Indicators’ to present the findings from analyzing the article. In this table, list the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their corresponding targets, and the specific indicators identified in the article.

Source: fortune.com