Age Disclosure Trends in German Job Applications

A recent study by The Stepstone Group reveals that one in ten job applicants in Germany alters or omits age information in applications. This trend is more prevalent among younger applicants, with 12% of individuals under 34 and 9% over 50 preferring not to disclose their age.

Concerns about age-specific biases are widespread. Younger candidates fear being deemed underqualified, whereas applicants over 50 worry about being perceived as overqualified or too old. Over half of HR managers view individuals over 55 as potentially “too old” for certain roles.

The research suggests that stereotypes persist, with young applicants seen as tech-savvy and older ones as reliable. The study highlights the need for companies to challenge these perceptions and actively support skill development. Encouragingly, 69% of workers over 50 express a desire to pursue further training.