Finally, a board I can relate to. I have stayed away from them because I was so tired of reading the crybaby posts of currently employed people who have good jobs, are happy and able to pay their bills and their whiny ass little problems of how they are just not happy at their jobs because of gossiping, dress code, divas, having to work in a cube,and not enough fun socialization i.e. in the workplace. If you could take a poll of their average age I presume you would find that it was in the area of 20-30 years old, (how ironic) most assuredly not over 50. Although it makes me even angrier and more worried for my future, I am relieved to see that I am not alone in feeling like I was a victim. Just weeks after turning 54 I lost my job in April after 20 yrs dedicated to a company when they “eliminated my position”. I have also experienced all of these same obstacles and headaches everyone mentions in these posts with recruiters, websites and employers. Even though I've strong skills, exhibit a can-do attitude as well as a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done and can learn just about anything, it seems that Society is telling me that I don't matter, I have nothing to offer and that I'm of no use. It’s very disheartening. Hiring workers who’ve passed the half-century mark shouldn’t be seen as an act of pity; it should be seen as a strategic move that’s a win-win for employers and employees alike. I think fifty is the perfect age, you still have the energy of your youth, but you have so much experience. I am only able to stay somewhat healthily sane, while I watched my bank account dwindle away to nothing, by reading positive information on this new supposed trend of some companies who are now realizing the benefits of hiring the older worker. I have to believe they are out there and that I am going to find one soon. I have attached an interesting excerpt from an article that makes me hopeful that more companies will open their eyes and realize how true all these benefits are and how much this realization could “help” not “hinder” their company's success. Meantime while no one in any way would ever classify me as any type of a “Pollyana” (if you are under about 48 you will probably have to Google that) I just remind myself everyday how very much I want to live a productive life again knowing I can and will as long as I keep pushing on.

Benefits of Retaining & Hiring Older Workers While the qualities attributed to older employees may vary, they can be generally captured in one of five categories:

1. Experience. Older employees have been there, done that. Their years in the workplace have given them an understanding of what is expected and how their work affects others. Their judgment, collected during a lifetime of mistakes and achievements, often leads to less costly, more streamlined, and better outcomes. A friend, recently retired as a purchasing agent of a major defense contractor and now working part-time at the local pharmacy, reduced the number of vendors serving the local chain, negotiated lower prices in some cases, and reduced total inventory investment. As a result, he affected a one-time savings of more than three times his annual salary with ongoing savings of more than $150,000 per year.
   

   2. Perspective. As we age, our views about ourselves and the people around us change. Older workers are more confident in their expertise and subsequently bring stability to the workplace, often acting as role models and mentors to younger employees. The maturity and knowledge that comes from years of life and work enables older workers to make critical, often innovative decisions, considering factors that younger workers simply haven’t had the time to experience.
      

      3. Adaptability. The Baby Boomer Generation of workers has experienced more change in the workplace than any previous generation before them. Markets and jobs have expanded globally, technology has transformed a mechanical workplace into an electronically-connected Internet, and social change has secured equality and participation in the workplace never before witnessed. Throughout their careers, older workers have seen unprecedented change in their professional and personal lives, accepted the new circumstances and requirements, and quickly and successfully adapted.
         

         4. Responsibility. A 2012 survey of human resource professionals by the Society for Human Resource Management reported that older workers exhibited a greater degree of professionalism and work ethic than younger workers. They are more willing to share their ideas with others, and less hesitant to speak up when encountering a problem. “They [older employees] are less ‘rattled’ and can be counted on in a crisis,” according to AARP Board Chairman Charles Leven.
            

            5. Commitment. Older employees understand the need for punctuality, regular attendance, and conformance with work rules and company guidelines. Some employers complain that their younger workers simply want to “put their time in” and leave, unlike older workers who are more willing to stay late and get the job done because of a sense of pride in themselves.
               

staffing agencies what new young blood. ANYONE OVER 40 is going to have a hard time getting recognized. I have found that companies want younger candidates because they cost less. Insurance premiums are higher for older employees. Also I have been finding out that companies are reluctant to hire older people when they are over a certain age. They feel "why should we invest time in effort in someone older when they are getting close to retirement" I feel that this is a game to them, they are like "fishing" catch, reel you in, and then release. UNLESS..... you have special expertise it's going to be hard times. Remember the economy isn't all that great, there's an election, and we experienced employees come with a price. Don't show negativism, keep the faith, and above all continue expanding your qualifications and certifications. Keep up with the times.

Good Luck

Chuck cool off.. Slow down.... It's a normal thing. The smart thing is that you have earned your degree. And with a 4.0 GPA. Now the work comes in and that's getting someone to take you. For what you do "MOVIE TOWN"( New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles) are your best bets. See its very competitive in your area, and I know that because my uncle does that job. But he lives in Miami, Florida where the movies are also made at a high volume. Keep in mind that he has earned a BA in your field. But he started out doing design for the City of Miami. So it's very competitive to earn that $77k that he earns with 14 yrs of work in that field. Hang in there and seek alternative design work.... Maybe design bathrooms, kitchens, or landscape a Class A office lawn. Remember and I say it again.... A degree only opens up choices for you. It really does not do anything else. You can compete more effective in that specific skill. Try finding a church, restaurant, or historical town hall that's up for renovation and bid on the drawing or design..... Just think.... You got this cause you are da'MAN!!!

Yes, I have experienced that many times. I think, as you said, they just want to make a quota for bringing in new people to sign up. I as well am just looking for a paying job.

My husband is in IT and was part of a resource action over a year ago. He literally made it his job all day looking for work...every day and I saw him go through more recruiters ( which to me seemed absolutely worthless and yet...he had to go through them...they are what I call the middle men) The job market is hard enough for most, but now its even harder when you are forced to put your career in the hands of these recruiters. Some of these recruiters have gotten him in the door...others just drug him on for weeks on end...and others you just never heard from again !!! They are making this job search horrid ...but being in IT...this is mostly what they are left to deal with. And after all these multitudes of recruiters....after over a year....guess what? He finally lands an awesome job, on his own...just off of " Indeed"...NO recruiters involved !!! All I can tell you is just keep trying....trust me...we were getting very tight and we have a family of five and were a hair away from moving in with my mother in law.Talk to people...ask around...put yourself and your talents out there any way you possibly can to get noticed. We are both 55...there is ageism out there, but some better places will know your worth...its just a matter of finding them !!!

Best of Luck....There is Something out There For You...without a doubt !!!

I guess we are all in the same boat. I just graduated in December with a Bachelors degree in Business Management. I can not get any bits on any jobs either. And when I do they are trying to put me back on the phones to do customer service which I have done for over 2 years. And was the whole reason for me going back to school to complete my degree. I am getting frustrated as well. I have over 50k in student loan debt and can not find a job making that much to be able to pay them back.

Chuck: Please don't get me started with them...I have been in Finance for over 25 yrs, I am 54 years old and I am finding it hard as well. I have been out of work since April and nothing is happening. These agencies I believe means well but I feel that they don't have a clue about older professionals. I have 2 Masters and noone wants to touch me at all. I feel that they may be intimated by me. I might be wrong, but I believe I am a challenge that they can't handle...again I might be wrong, but with age, education and experience they can't deal with that....IJS

I am 49 years old and i am having the same problem or they tell me im over qualified. It isnt just agencies doing it. I was at a personal care home and was there for 9 years no write ups, never late, always early, worked for other shifts, did my job and then in 2015 i was fired. No reason why i was fired. Been having trouble getting a job since

Stephanie

Sad to say most jobs. want young and.inexperienced so they can pay less over older and experience so they won't have to pay more. I'm surprised that you weren't told you were over qualified, which really means that they can use your experience but is not willing to pay for what you're worth smh

I definitely am in the same boat as yourself, Chuck. Nowadays, its extremely tough seeking job opportunities. Throughout the entire month of August i have filled out more than 85 apps, but no responses. Next, i was told by friends to go to temp agencies but honestly they have been of no help at all.