Going in another direction
I have all the qualifications this hospital wanted for a Phelbotomist. Sent off their computer resume. Got back an automated reply that they were taking it," in a different direction." On their application they wanted to know my graduation date. Which one? High school? Is this an under cover ploy to find out my age? Yep I am 61 years old. Don't look it.. Don't act it.. Most people I meet think I am in my mid 40s and this is from women.
I believe that's employers speak for either "We decided not to fill the position due to budget cuts!" Or "You know your stuff and you're qualified in every way but we need an excuse not to hire you!"
Sorry to hear this.... don't give up. there's other jobs and positions that will appreciate your experience, specially in the medical field where they favour experience because of age rather than no experience and Youth..... I'm 51 years old in the medical field very experienced and if they ever question my age all I do is send them a picture.....
Hi Marla: Don't get discourage! Just like Marijoy said, don't let it distract you just keep applying to more positions. If you click on this link http://bit.ly/1p4eHSW you will see phlebotomist jobs in your area. Let me know if you need any help.
You look Amazing! Why don't you have a friend take some great pics of you & you send those out for an 'older' model position instead, you don't have to be 5'8+ & 15-20 to be a model. You should take that hospitals' advice & 'go in a different direction' yourself! I'm having strange issues while looking for employment as well & am getting pretty frustrated with all the games. I'm trying to think outside the box; I got an idea for You at least, now I need one for me.
Tough to tell what this might mean... I'd not waste another minute thinking about it - move on to another position at a place that will value your experience. Keep your head up & keep applying. You'll find something better.
I'm so sorry to hear that Marla! They actually aren't allow to require graduation dates on an application. They can have a slot if you want to fill it out, but you should still be allowed to submit it without the dates. I'm sorry this happened to you!
Marla, As everyone else mentioned, keep your head up! A job search can be pretty frustrating, regardless of your qualifications and experience.
One thing that's helped me, especially on resumes, is having someone doublecheck my spelling and punctuation. And of course, reading through the content like a prospective employer. What should be expounded upon, what is unnecessary, etc. I consider myself to be pretty eagle-eyed with spelling and grammar, but I still had a buddy of mine look at my resume and he caught a tiny switch of an 'i' and an 'l' that I hadn't seen. I know stuff like that may seem small and even unrelated to the position you're applying for, but every employer wants a consummate professional, and if it's a toss-up between you and another, but your resume or email communication is lacking in some area, that could be the difference. Just don't give them any reason to look outside of your qualifications and work history.
Again, stay positive and shore up any loose ends. You can't do anything about age, but your experience is key in offsetting that. And if you think that's any issue with a potential employer, I'd probably highlight that you plan on working as long as possible! At 61, I'm sure some employers can be uneasy about upcoming retirement. May not be a big deal, but be aware!
Good luck!