As we get older, we should feel stronger, more confident, and empowered. But as women, we often feel less empowered—diminished and even invisible. In fact, feeling invisible is one of the most common complaints of women 50+—especially as we face increasing age biases in the workplace.
Moving into our fifties and beyond, our workplace contributions might be downplayed or no longer recognized as they once were. We may also be overlooked for promotions or experience the threat of being pushed out of our positions before we are ready to retire. And here’s the deal—if we feel invisible and allow others to treat us like they don’t see us or appreciate our contributions, we jeopardize our well-being. Research shows that age biases—especially gendered ones—can affect our emotional, physical, and financial health. To protect ourselves, it is essential to make ourselves visible when it matters. And in the workplace, it does matter!
Refuse to Be Invisible in the Workplace
Pamela Woods, a former senior executive, shared that too many women still believe being good at their job is the best way to get promotions or hold onto their positions. In reality, she says, people who have the advantage do good work and make themselves (and their work) visible. For those who work remotely, she suggests it can be invaluable to check in at the office physically when possible; doing so can help keep you in the loop and build stronger relationships with key decision-makers.
Bonnie Marcus, author of Not Done Yet: How Women Over 50 Regain Their Confidence and Claim Workplace Power, suggests that older women can become more visible and valuable by building cross-generational relations, volunteering for high-profile projects, mentoring others, and sharing knowledge through “lunch and learn” or other similar events.
Taking advantage of training opportunities at work or through free online courses can also help create greater visibility and value—especially if you share what you are learning with others. By doing so, you are also demonstrating that you are growth-oriented, rather than stagnant.
formally or informally sharing evidence-based information about how employees 50+ can provide unique contributions is one way to highlight your own value. For example, a 2021 study from the Georgetown University Medical Center found that one of the mental functions that improve with age is our ability to focus on what is truly important in different situations. Do a little research and then help educate others about how older employees can make unique and valuable contributions. As appropriate, also consider sharing how your business or organization can tap into a growing population of 50+ consumers, clients, or patients
Spotlight Your Knowledge and Skills by Speaking Up
Honing public presentation skills is another powerful way to create visibility and highlight our knowledge and skills. Yes, I understand it can be a scary thought to have all eyes focused on you—but that is part of becoming visible.
Even though my personality leans toward introversion, I joined Toastmasters because I saw the need to develop comfort and competence as a public speaker. Being able to present in public opened doors that I had never considered. Eventually, I decided to earn a master’s degree in speech communication and landed a teaching position at a college when I was in my fifties. Having good ideas and doing good work is not enough to get the attention you deserve. You’ve got to be your best advocate for all you offer.
The Power of Our Posture to Increase Visibility
When we want others to see and hear us, we must think about our posture during different encounters. If we slump in our chairs or try to take up as little space as possible, we signal insignificance and feel less important. When we feel insignificant, we are less likely to share the insights and gifts that others around us need. However, if we sit up straight, relax our arms, and claim our space, we’re letting others know we are engaged and have something worthwhile to contribute.
It is also helpful to think about our posture and how we move when we walk. If we stand tall and move with purpose and energy, that is how others will typically see us. If we stump when we walk or don’t allow our energy to flow, others are more likely to discount us or perceive us as no longer relevant or engaged.
Owning Our Worth as Women
I remember a delightful workplace co-worker in her early sixties who had mastered the ability to command attention and respect. This woman could walk into a conference room like a regal queen. When she spoke, her vocal tone was confident, and she projected her voice in a way that could fill a room. She refused to be invisible because she believed her workplace contributions were valuable.
It doesn’t matter if we are searching for a new position, trying to hold onto a job we have, or seeking a promotion—if we want to be seen, heard, and valued, we must recognize our value.
And as women, we must also recognize and support other women—all women of all generations. If we don’t start reaching across generations to change hearts and minds, future generations of women will continue to experience the same kinds of discrimination and stereotyping that many of us have faced. No woman should face feelings of invisibility in the workplace once she enters her fifties and beyond.
This post was drawn from Paula’s recent book, Refusing to Be Invisible: Life Planning Empowerment Strategies for Women 50+.