Retiring at 60 – after three decades in the same job: a situation that affects many people

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When "loyalty to the company" suddenly becomes worthless

For thirty years, you go to the same workplace every morning, you know the routines, the people, the customers, probably even the bad years—and then one day you get fired. That's exactly what happened to a 60-year-old woman from Carinthia. For her, it wasn't just a job loss, but a harsh blow: after so many years, it quickly feels like being kicked out of your own everyday life.

The Carinthian Chamber of Labor does not see this as an isolated incident, but rather a pattern: cases in which older employees are treated unfairly, in their view, are becoming increasingly common, particularly in southern Austria. Focus reports with reference to the Austrian portal "Heute."

She fights back—and gets money instead of "carry on as usual."

The woman did not go home quietly, but sought help from the Chamber of Labor and contested the dismissal. This was successful: in the end, she was awarded compensation amounting to one year's salary.

Nevertheless, she does not want to return. And this statement is telling: "I will not return to a company that suddenly does not want me anymore after so many years." Even if you win legally, the relationship is often damaged. Anyone who has experienced how quickly you can be declared a "problem" rather than a "veteran" often has no desire to make a comeback.

During the dispute, the employer is also said to have lashed out. Unfortunately, this is typical: when things get legally tricky, the story is often rewritten—suddenly, it is claimed that things "hadn't been right for a long time." For those affected, this is not only annoying, but also extremely hurtful on a personal level.

The nasty detail: those who react too late often lose everything.

An important point emphasized by the Chamber of Labor: many people are unaware of their options. And worse still: there are short deadlines. According to the report, in Carinthia, a dismissal must be contested within two weeks. Anyone who hesitates, takes time to gather their thoughts, hopes for the best, or feels ashamed may miss this opportunity.

Older and long-serving employees in particular often have better cards to play if certain conditions are met (e.g., a minimum length of service and the role of the works council). But protection only helps if you invoke it in good time.

Looking at Germany: The problem has been around for a long time

Age discrimination in the workplace is not a marginal issue in Germany either. According to the Anti-Discrimination Agency, many people report that they have been treated less favorably because of their age—especially in relation to work: dismissals, contract extensions, job applications. And this is precisely where the second blow lies: those who are let go at 55/60 often find it more difficult to find another job, even if they have a wealth of experience.

What we say about this

This case highlights an unpleasant principle: experience is celebrated as long as it is cheap. If it becomes more expensive or "inconvenient," long-term employees quickly become just a number in a table. And then companies wonder why there is a bad atmosphere and a lack of loyalty among younger employees.

In the end, a bland impression remains: some companies want loyalty—but only as long as it is one-sided. As soon as things get serious, it's not 30 years of service that counts, but how quickly someone can be replaced. That's not modern, it's just cold.

Source: focus.de