There are many ways an employee can be discriminated against at work. If you are over the age of 40 and your employer is treating you less favorably or is taking adverse action against you based on your age, then you might be a victim of age discrimination.
If so, you may be entitled to damages, but before taking the matter up with the court, you need to be certain that the perpetrator’s actions indeed amount to age discrimination.
Here are subtle signs of age discrimination that you need to look out for in the workplace.
Offensive remarks
While occasional offhand comments or teasing remarks by a co-worker may not amount to discrimination, repeat and severe castigation about your age would be a violation. This is especially true if these comments come from your supervisor or employer. If these remarks are offensive enough to make you feel uncomfortable at work, then you need to take action.
Change of responsibilities
There is nothing absolutely wrong with the employer re-organizing the workforce and assigning team members new roles. However, if the employer demotes you based on your age, then this could amount to age discrimination. When the employer suddenly assigns you roles that limit your authority or when your performance appraisal is suddenly below par, then these could be indicators that they are trying to build a case for your dismissal.
Forced retirement
Generally, an employer cannot compel you to retire at a certain age. If an employer is forcing you to take early retirement because you have advanced in age, then you could be a victim of age discrimination.
Knowing your legal options can help you protect your rights and interests if you become a victim of age discrimination in the workplace.