Defeat Ageism Discrimination!
I’m an unemployed 53 years old struggling to re-enter the workforce after an unexpected layoff from my last job. I’ve been landing a decent amount interviews but I have yet to be convincing enough to seal a deal with a potential employer.
My vast years of related experience speaks for itself on my resume but I still can’t help thinking managers are second guessing my ability to learn new skills and quickly adapt to the demands of the workplace because of my age. Of course there was no way I could prove any discrimination but I’m frankly sick and tired of making assumptions.
I decided to take a risk and address this ageism discrimination problem head-on during an interview yesterday. After the standard interview Q&A I volunteered a final statement meant to speak directly to this issue. The statement sounded something like this…
“I’m 53 years old with over 20 years of experience in various areas of manufacturing and production as you can see on my resume. I was laid off from my previous job for reasons outside of my control but at my age I’m not ready to give up, I’m ready to gear-up! I’m 100% confident that I will meet and exceed all of the responsibilities associated with this job to your full satisfaction is give the opportunity to prove myself.”
I’m not sure how much of an impact my little spiel had on the manager's decision but I’ve been called back for a 2nd interview next week. Keeping all my fingers and toes crossed on this one. Wish me luck!
I feel you and agree
I've always found it best to confront reasonably obvious obstacles right out front. The tone of your response is respectful, positive and upbeat.
George, Good for you in your own direct way you were fighting back. At the same time, you let the employer know that you would not be intimidated because of your age. I applaud you and will probably use the same tactic the next interview I go to. I think we need to embrace our age and make it work for us. After all, we are older wiser and less likely to cause drama or disruption in the workplace. Hopefully, your approach to the situation will land you the job. Best of luck God Bless TYJ.
Whoot Whoot! You nailed it and couldn't have done it any better! I truly know where your coming from, I'm dealing with the similar issues being 42. Plus companies know that retirement isn't far away as opposed to hiring an 18/20 year old for the same job. So I wish you the absolute best of luck and I am faithfully counting on you becoming that companies new employee, simply because you can prove your worth no matter the age!!!
Hey George, as an older individual myself I feel your pain. It's TOUGH out there, but not impossible. I agree with Olivia that the less said the better sometimes in terms of age. If they ask when you worked a job I wouldn't lie, but I also don't make it a point to bring those things up or my age. Not that what you said was wrong by any means. I just think instead you should really work on your pitch, updating your resume and making a great impression. What I usually do when they ask me how I can handle today's new technology or a similar (you're really old how are you gonna deal with this) question, is I let them know it's not a problem. I have taken online courses and I also have experience with x, y, and z and then I mention specific RECENT examples of when I utilized that thing they are looking for. Remember, as fantastically as it may have gone back then, stick with the now and focus on the last few years. I hope the second job interview goes well, good luck and keep us posted!
I think that it's important to really "sell" yourself, but I also think that you shouldn't necessarily bring up your age on any future interviews. Instead I would focus on your skills and why you will be a great hire. If they see those things and know you will excel at the job, age shouldn't matter.
George, that is awesome, always be proud of who you are. I was 53, and lost a 13.5 year job, through no actions of my own. I went through many of the same issues it appears you are experiencing. It took about 5 months, but I took a job for the money only, and I kept looking. It has been 5 years in December, and I have been back in my normal position for about 3 years. You did great, and if your skillsets are what they need, you will get that job next week. Either way you don't have to worry about the age question, as you have addressed it, and they already called you back. You will have another good job, you just have to believe. Good Luck...
How well said. Hopefully the decision maker is smart enough to see your value to the company. Best of luck!