A recent Indeed report has been called ‘ageist’ after it labelled workers aged 45 as ‘late career’ and 55+ as in ‘decline’, reports the Freelance Informer. Lyndsey Simpson, Founder/CEO at 55Redefined Group and global expert on the value of the ageing population, has called out the platform in a LinkedIn post for publishing what she sees as ‘blatantly ageist and irresponsible content’.

The Indeed infographic which described 45 ‘late career’ and 55+ as in ‘decline’ also calls 35-45 ‘mid-career’. The infographic was taken down after multiple complaints, according to the Freelance Informer.

Simpson said, “At 55+, millions of people are just finding their stride in their chosen career or are re-skilling, coming back into the workforce having been caregivers, or starting new businesses.”

Indeed’s guide, Simpson argues, perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines the potential of older workers. She urges companies to embrace the value of older workers and rise up against outdated biases.

Victoria Tomlinson, FRSA, CEO of recruitment agency Next Up, said, “Thanks to the thousands who have shared, commented and emailed – Indeed has taken this article down.”

Though the graphic was still visible for a period of time after Tomlinson’s comment, it has since been removed.

Elizabeth Isele, Founder of the Global Institute for Experienced Entrepreneurship, contributed to Indeed’s report. She said in the report, “The multigenerational workforce has a distinct competitive advantage for so many reasons. Right away, employers open up a stronger and broader pipeline of talent. You get a larger gene pool of ideas. Improve your workforce’s continuity and stability. And retain knowledge within that workforce.” By 2030, Isele notes there is expected to be 150 million more workers aged 55+.

In a statement sent to SIA, Indeed stated, “We deeply apologize for the content contained in the article - the content was wrong, period. It does not reflect our values of inclusivity, our hiring practices, or the way our website operates. We are committed to our mission to help all people, of all ages, get jobs.”