Do Preferences for Telework Impact Job Opportunities for Older Job Applicants?
Author Information
Author(s): Brady Samantha, Cerino Lauren, D’Ambrosio Lisa, Coughlin Joseph
Primary Institution: MIT AgeLab
Hypothesis
Do preferences for telework limit access to professional opportunities for job applicants of different ages?
Conclusion
Preferences for telework negatively impact job opportunities for applicants of all ages, with the largest penalties for the youngest and oldest applicants.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults make up 24% of the labor force in 2023.
- Age discrimination limits employment opportunities for older job seekers.
- Telework preferences may exacerbate ageist stereotypes.
Takeaway
This study looks at how wanting to work from home can make it harder for older people to get jobs. It found that both young and old applicants face more challenges compared to middle-aged applicants.
Methodology
The study used a forced-choice conjoint experiment to analyze hiring behaviors.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from age stereotypes affecting hiring decisions.
Limitations
The study's preliminary analysis is based on pilot data and may not fully represent the complete sample.
Participant Demographics
Hiring decision makers across the U.S.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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