Which characteristic cannot be considered in employment decisions?

In employment decisions, various characteristics are evaluated to determine a candidate's suitability for a position. However, age is a characteristic that cannot be considered due to legal protections against age discrimination. Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), individuals are protected from discrimination based on age, specifically those who are 40 years of age and older. This law aims to ensure that employment decisions are made based on qualifications, skills, and job performance rather than age, fostering a more inclusive and fair hiring process.

On the other hand, experience, education level, and job performance are all relevant factors that help employers assess a candidate's capabilities and fit for a role. These criteria are typically aligned with the job requirements and help ensure that hiring decisions are based on merit.