Earlier this year I turned a milestone. And yet I still feel about 22.
That said, I always wanted to stay 10, but that stopped being possible on my 11th birthday, but I still remain a “young at heart” soul.
Why am I telling you this you may ask? It’s because I’ve recently read a few posts on social media about how those in my age bracket and above are quietly being screened out of the recruitment process under different labels eg. “too senior,” “not a good cultural fit” or “needing someone more energetic.” So here’s my question – in this world of ever increasing inclusivity are those with more experience in a field being ignored? And why is this?
Establishing common ground on a friendship level within age groups containing large age gaps can sometimes be tricky, however, I do think working relationships are achievable with anybody regardless of age or background, or anything else. In the past I have been made to feel like I was too old and past it to be part of a team (this was some years before my milestone birthday btw!) and so I have subsequently left of my own accord for this reason.
Having now freelanced for quite some time, I have worked with people of all ages, and find that I learn from them all in some way. I also feel that we get on on a personal level as well, and hopefully they feel the same. I enjoy catch ups, we have a laugh and a chat, and get a job done despite me being somewhat older.
A team should cover all bases, no matter your target audience, as everyone brings something to the table. To overlook someone based on something that is your own perception and stereotyping is ridiculous, on what are you basing these judgements? I often feel there’s a little (or a lot) of fear surrounding more experienced people by hiring managers. And I think a lot of it is not necessarily with the business in mind.
Luckily for me I work with some fabulous people, and that’s why I LOVE freelancing. I’ve been found by my crew. I work with people who want to work with me and I them. We are all ages, genders and backgrounds, yet we all find common ground to get a job done. Opinions and experiences are taken onboard, and I’m very lucky to do what I do.
When I went out for my milestone birthday, my 19 year old niece came out with me and my friends. I asked her in the morning if we were old and embarrassing, and her response is something to live by: “You are old, and you did do embarrassing things, but it’s fine.” And it is.
Being old is fine. Being yourself is fine. And if others can’t see your qualities, then I think they’re missing out on what could be something great.
The moral of this tale? Don’t judge something or someone based on your preconceptions. Give something a chance. Live outside your bubble, otherwise it’s an echo chamber. It might turn out better than you imagined.