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Nicolas Gordon
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How can I overcome age bias?

I’ve unsuccessfully applied for well over 300 jobs since I got laid off 2 years ago. Unfortunately, all that I’ve been able to conclude from my experience is that the bias on job applicants in their 50’s and 60’s is alive and well. I haven’t been able to find a way to overcome the stereotypes around outrageous salary requirements, the ability to be technologically efficient, and the ability to give up old skills for new ones. The last recession and globalization simply crippled the workforce in my generation. I’m just looking for anything I can find right now. How can I make myself more marketable to employers?

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about 10 years ago
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steve woolf
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Hi well in the field i work in unfortunately its not high paying but stabble work for last 15yrs , as im in security, im 63 yrs young, when your older you have to choose a field where there is very little age duscretion.

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Glen Zivitski
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Manufacturing Process Planner Purchasing Agent at Velan Valve Avenue C

I have gone through the same thing. Get to an interview where do you see yourself in 10 years. Then nothing more. Thanks Republicans for supporting this type of climate to big Business.

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Robert Walker
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Medical Operations Officer at 256 Field Hospital

Hi Nicolas,

It was almost 4 years since I worked in a position even remotely close to my education and background, But things changed for me as soon as I addressed my resume and what at I did to let people know I was available. But start with your resume.

I can email you a redacted copy of my resume to use as an example to rework yours if you wish..

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Janet Henderson
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In order to remain competitive, your skills must be current and competitive. Flexibility is key for more mature job seekers. Remain positive, and do not complain about anything. Are you able to take a class to update your computer skills? The local library offers free computer classes and FREE tutoring. This may be an option for you. Read books. You may be in your 50's but can you talk as if you are in your 30's? Update your communication jargon. How? Hang around some younger people and listen to them critically and objectively. And, if you have a negative attitude toward younger people, you probably will not get hired. Guess who is doing the hiring? Younger people. Attitude speaks volumes. Always have a positive attitude. By the way, I am 56 young and getting younger by the minute...in my attitude and my ability to adapt as needed. Carry on, young soldier. Carry on, with a great, positive, looking-forward, butt kicking conqueror attitude. :)

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Alecia Smith
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Peer Advisor at Uab

Best I can tell you is market your talents and skills... This is a bad time to be without a job, let me tell ya! :-) Also, pray. If it is meant to be, God will let it be. Have faith, it is easier said than done, I realize but what is the alternative? Negativity and pessimism only goes so far and usually in the wrong, counter-productive way. If only we didn't have the 22nd amendment right now and Obama could run a 3rd term... But the reality is we have a real presidential candidate named Donald Trump. Where is the hope in that??? Keep trying and don't give up. It's always hardest before the dawn then you'll get that job you need and can give thanks abundantly.... :-)

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Beverly Ault
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Try taking advantage of the unemployment office. Sometimes they have programs to help the unemployed. Also, if you've ever taken classes at a community college, they might have job boards with jobs of all kinds.

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Tanya Fitzgerald
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Claims Processor at State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance

Nicolas, I'm not going to ply you with false hope. Ageism is the only -ism overtly practiced and accepted in this country. The bald facts are these: at our age we have roots, commitments and experience which translates to salary, relevance and tech savvy to a potential employer. Young, eager new college grads with a mountain of student loan debt will work harsh hours for less money and fewer expectations. I can tell you what I did. I made a budget and determined what I would require as a maintenance salary. Although overqualified, I applied to companies willing to pay my reduced demands. I fully explained my over educated over experienced resume as needing to get out of the "rat race" and into a stable, calm work environment. Less stress and fewer work hours meant more time for my outside interests and then the interviews usually segue into the fact that I am a league sanctioned, one armed bowler with a 183 average. One offer I received actually turned out to be due to an interaction with both a receptionist and another employee while I was waiting for an interview. The interviewers felt that if I was that comfortable assisting strangers I would be a great fit for their customer service position. I suppose, for me, personality won out over age. I hope this helps you and good luck with your search.

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Keith Syria
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You have to brush up on recent skills and apply through temp agencies. Companies hire through temp more times than not plus temp agencies may give you test on things like technology aka Microsoft. Adams and Garth has high percentage of temp to full time employment. Also all with unemployment office.

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Deborah Seddon
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You are not alone. I have been unemployed for 2 1/2 years, had many good interviews and then no offers. I have been an Programmer/Analyst for over 25 years, with a ton of great experience. Your statement 'the last recession and globalization has crippled the work force for your generation' is exactly right. I am 59. My resume clearly demonstrates the ability to learn new tools and languages. Also looking for Anything to earn an income. Spent over an hour filling out app and questionnaire for a pharmacy tech trainee at CVS. The same with Home Depot. And this is the only avenue to apply. Wish I had an answer. Maybe our new Pres. will help us?!

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Deborah Seddon
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You are not alone. I have been unemployed for 2 1/2 years, had many good interviews and then no offers. I have been an Programmer/Analyst for over 25 years, with a ton of great experience. Your statement 'the last recession and globalization has crippled the work force for your generation' is exactly right. I am 59. My resume clearly demonstrates the ability to learn new tools and languages. Also looking for Anything to earn an income. Spent over an hour filling out app and questionnaire for a pharmacy tech trainee at CVS. The same with Home Depot. And this is the only avenue to apply. Wish I had an answer. Maybe our new Pres. will help us?!

10y
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