To: Mr. Smith, Trade Union Chairperson
From: Marchenko Valeria, Continental Airlines Trade Union Secretary
Subject: Ageism Issue
Date: October 26, 2006
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to show that current company policies in the sphere of
employment is discriminating.
Controversy
By far the most controversial issue now is the ageism in the sphere of employment in the
Continental Airlines. In one of the separate debates of Trade Union, we had almost
maximum attendance. A wide range of opinions was expressed and a final vote was taken,
in which the majority were in favour of neutral age policy in the sphere of employment.
Case of ageism
Sidney Bristow, 51, a ticket agent of our company at Boston Logan International Airport
was fired because she wasnt suitable for one of the requirements:
*ƒ¿*ƒ”€š*ƒ‚ 30 *ƒ²*ƒ”€š 50 y.o.
*ƒ¿*ƒ”€š*ƒ‚ Fluent English
*ƒ¿*ƒ”€š*ƒ‚ Open, energetic, highly-motivated people with good communication skills.
The problem is that people dont want to work on such conditions and we are still looking
for replacement of Ms. Bristow.
Potential Solutions
What to do to avoid ageism?
1. Re-think attitudes about older adults in your workplace.
2. Build morale and higher productivity by demonstrating to older workers that they are
valued and appreciated.
3. Make these the key words: Respect, Value, Praise, Recognize, Reward.
4. Post job announcements on your web site and show pictures of workers of all ages. Like
” This company values workers of all ages.”“ Post it on brochures and annual reports.
5. Flexible work schedules to provide a variety of scheduling options for older people.
6. Tap into the loyalty, productivity, experience and maturity of older workers as mentors.
7. Review and, if necessary, revise policies, training programs, recruiting methods, job
designs and evaluations to eliminate discriminatory language.
Conclusion