Recent Writing Actual Test 03/2023
In some countries, it is illegal for companies to reject job applicants for their age.
Is this a positive or negative development?
Sample Answer band 7.5+
In some countries, it is illegal for companies to reject job applicants based on their age. This policy has generated debate among different sectors of society, with some people viewing it as a positive development, while others consider it a negative one. Personally, I think this policy is mainly a positive one.
One potential benefit of making it illegal for companies to reject job applicants based on their age is that it promotes fairness and equality in the workplace. Age discrimination can be a major barrier for older workers who are looking for employment or trying to advance in their careers. By removing this obstacle, companies can tap into a wider pool of talent and benefit from the experience and skills of older workers. Furthermore, older workers can bring a unique perspective and value to a company. They often have years of experience in their field and can provide valuable mentorship and guidance to younger colleagues. They may also have a better understanding of the needs and preferences of older customers, which can be beneficial in certain industries.
However, making it illegal to reject job applicants based on their age could have negative consequences. For example, companies may be hesitant to hire older workers if they are worried about potential legal disputes or accusations of age discrimination. This could result in unintended consequences, such as reduced employment opportunities for older workers. Another potential drawback is that companies may be less willing to invest in training and development for older workers if they are worried about turnover or retirement. This could limit opportunities for older workers to acquire new skills and adapt to changing technologies.
In conclusion, while there may be some potential drawbacks to making it illegal to reject job applicants based on their age, the benefits of promoting fairness and equality in the workplace and tapping into the skills and experience of older workers.
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