LinkedIn Quietly Pulls Ageist Ads After Months Of Backlash
LinkedIn Quietly Pulls Ageist Ads After Months Of Backlash Forbes
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Ageism in Tech: LinkedIn’s Controversial Ads and the Need for Change
The Impact of Age Discrimination
Vern Six, a senior software engineer and project manager in his 50s, recently shared his experiences of age discrimination in the tech industry. During a job interview, a recruiter made derogatory comments about Six’s age and later ghosted him. These incidents are not isolated; thousands of older candidates face ageism in their quest for employment.
LinkedIn’s Ageist Ads
LinkedIn, a platform known for networking and job opportunities, faced backlash for its ageist advertising campaign. The ads perpetuated stereotypes that older people are technologically inept and out of touch with reality. This campaign has negatively affected older individuals seeking work, contradicting the platform’s mission to provide equal opportunities for all.
Missed Opportunity: LinkedIn’s Response
LinkedIn failed to address the concerns raised by its members regarding the ageist ads. Despite receiving numerous complaints, the company took no action to remove the ads. Timeliness, transparency, accountability, authenticity, empathy, and media relations management are essential aspects of crisis communications that LinkedIn neglected.
Missed Target: Upsetting B2B Audience
The ageist ads not only offended older workers and job applicants but also drew criticism from LinkedIn’s B2B target audience. Mary Shae, a Go-To-Market Advisor, expressed her disappointment with the ads and called out LinkedIn for its insensitivity. Other members also changed their profile pictures to protest against the campaign.
A Tiptoe Exit Strategy
LinkedIn’s response to the controversy was a quiet adieu to the campaign. Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Melissa Selcher acknowledged the mistake and stated that the ads were no longer running. However, the company’s delayed and understated response lacked the necessary accountability and compassion.
A Silver Lining: Fighting Ageism
Vern Six’s viral post about ageism has sparked a conversation about the need for change. He has received overwhelming support and messages from individuals who have experienced similar discrimination. Six is committed to raising awareness about age diversity and advocating for fair hiring practices based on skills rather than age. He aims to create a more inclusive job market where age does not define one’s value.
Together, we can make a difference in combating ageism and creating a workplace that values individuals of all ages.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- 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 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 8.5: Proportion of employees aged 50 years and older who receive equal pay for work of equal value.
- Indicator for SDG 10.3: Proportion of individuals who have experienced age discrimination in employment.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | Target 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. | Indicator: Proportion of employees aged 50 years and older who receive equal pay for work of equal value. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard. | Indicator: Proportion of individuals who have experienced age discrimination in employment. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: forbes.com
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