Applicant Age as a Subjective Employability Factor: A Study of Workers Over and Under Age Fifty

Abstract

Three hundred employers in a suburban area of the Pacific Northwest were surveyed by mail. Ninety‐eight (i.e., 33%) responded with their perceptions of older (ages 50 and over) and younger (aged 49 and under) workers on 12 attributes. In contrast to previous research, this study found more favorable ratings for older workers overall, including such categories as attendance and salary expectations. Younger workers were rated more favorably on the attributes computer skills, energy levels, flexibility, and learning ability. An in‐group bias was found for ratings of older workers by older employers.