Survey: Age Bias On The Up For Executives

Compiled ByTonya Vinas A recent survey by online career-management company ExecuNet.com concludes that age discrimination against executives is on the rise. According to the company, 61% of the 340 surveyed executives say age bias is a greater problem today than it was one year ago, and 35% report encountering the problem in recent job searches. Of those surveyed, 42% believe age becomes a significant factor in a hiring decision at or below the age of 50; 42% say from 51-55 the problem arises; and 16% say it becomes an issue after age 56. "With demand for executive talent down, there's increased competition for every opening," says Dave Opton, CEO and founder of ExecuNet.com. "Unfortunately, in this type of market, age bias becomes more pronounced."