AI can identify age discrimination in recruiting

Artificial intelligence has been credited with eliminating biases that undermine diversity, equity and inclusion in talent acquisition. With concern over racial injustice since George Floyd's death in police custody driving DEI to new heights, it's easy to miss the scourge of ageism. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that an inability of nearly three-fourths of workers age 65 and older to telecommute during the pandemic placed them at a higher risk for developing severe illnesses from COVID-19. In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics noted that long-term unemployment for working Americans 55 and older spiked to 26.4% from 14% last September vs. an increase to 18.2% from 11.3% outside that category. Experts note that so-called conversational AI can help ensure the safety of older talent as employees return to workplaces without ageism creeping into the equation post-pandemic.