Comments on: Job hunting challenges for the older worker

By: Lewis nHales

Lewis nHales — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:42:54 +0000

I am 55 and have two masters degree’s. I have been the CEO of a corporation for 12 years, formerly coordinator of five drug and alcohol centers in Georgia and have 25 years experience working with adult psychiatric disorders and chemical dependency. I am applying for positions with the state that I overly qualify for and have not been called in for an interview. I have even called some of the hr staff of the hiring center prior to submitting my resume and they all acknowledged very positive feedback. However, after the application deadline passed, nothing. The positions I am applying for are similar to a doctor applying for a nurses aid job. Not one call back. I have never encountered this problem and I cannot help but think that my age is the bottom line issue here.

By: John Mackay

John Mackay — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 22:03:54 +0000

I believe your right about age being a problem but everyone no matter what the age is are in the same boat. I am looking at every thing and for full time or part time.

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By: Former VP of Marketing

Former VP of Marketing — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 22:50:54 +0000

At age of 61 in May, and a former sales/marketing senior VP exec with an international firm and with sales experiences from all over the USA and Europe and Asia, my ability to land even a regional sales position is fading fast. I have even toned down my resume, so as to seem more well suited for a non exec position. No luck so far.

I’ve spent some lucrative time as a sales agent in the local real estate market but with the market being what it is, I am seeking to get back to “road warrior” status. My second career did lead to short term income anyway to a $110,000 per year income prior to the collapse of real estate.

It is frustrating, as I look many years younger, according to casual friends, and I wear the Joseph Banks style of traditional attire and speak well and have a brisk step and friendly hand shake and a solid meet and greet.

At the end of the day, when I interview some one in his/her mid 30s, they broadcast their disdain with their body language. I know that it is my age ……….. they think that I am maybe 53 or 54 and that is really spooky, especially because I am almost 61.

Oh well, we will continue to look for opportunities.

By: Aleezah

Aleezah — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:24:28 +0000

I personally think the problem is with the state of Georgia. Georgia does not value education or experience. People hire their friends and relatives. Do not take it personal it is not you. If anyone is willing to move, I believe employment would not be an issue.

By: Carol Anthony

Carol Anthony — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:14:06 +0000

Most ageist attitudes in job-related interactions have nothing to do with the candidate’s “attitude”, physical appearance, abilities, or energy level. Although I am part of the “aging baby boomers” to quote hundreds of well meaning authors, I am also physically lean, professionally stylish, have more positive energy than people half my age, and am learning new technologies all the time. Ageism is a problem of ignorance on the part of the people who practice it–not the individuals who are aging. True, there are some over 50s who need to update their skills and wardrobe and attitude. But that is true of individuals in every generation. The problem is systemic–rooted in cultural stereotypes perpetuated by the media, the fashion and entertainment industries and HR and recruiting professionals. Until there is a major cultural shift, this issue will continue to undermine our economy and humanity.

By: Richard Webb

Richard Webb — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:39:08 +0000

Patricia:
Tey the age is a problem a big problem. I have met it for over a year. And even after I was in my last job, the wife;’s boss made a comment to him ” What is this Golden Pond you are creating here?” I have heard “over qualified, the job had changed, the job is going away, we need someone with younger contacts.” Unfortunately I have been very successful with my own business and other businesses,. I am quite sharp with finding root causes and the overlooked solution to problems. Oh yes the .. “You look good on paper but..” At 61 I can hold my own in construction meet all the physical challenges. Never miss a day, be on time speak with any group of people, handle a one-on-one with statesmen and laborers. I’m computer savvy, and can sell most anyone. so why/

By: Rick Ard

Rick Ard — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 11:26:27 +0000

i sure agree with all the comments here. i have no grey hair and i have lost 40 lbs since march. it seems like i am being kicked to the curb before i even get to the sidewalk.
good luck everyone.

By: Valencia Epps

Valencia Epps — Mon, 04 May 2009 15:17:02 +0000

Ageism is obviously a problem. I am 53 years old and have been in the job market for 2 years with no success. I notice those my age have the same problem.
Ironically, I have no gray hair, have computer skills, and have education in various areas. I must admit I am overweight but have not gotten the opportunity for any interviewer to see that, as I have only gone on one interview.
What I have been told from the human resources advisers is experience (which comes with age) is a threat to the younger generation. I would think that it would be an advantage since most aged people are looking to add to the organization instead of taking anything away. We are not looking for an exorbitant salary, we are just looking to be of enormous help and keep ourselves busy at the same time.

By: Janice Billingslea

Janice Billingslea — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:38:24 +0000

I am new to job seeking at 50 and it is a new day; I panic when I am on line applying for jobs and I am not sure whether or not my resume made it to the employer. Not being able to speak with the employer is mind-blowing to me. However, I am convinced that when I have the opportunity to interview with the employer that I will be able to present my skills and experience in such a way that they will be certain that I am the person for the job regardless of my age. I really try not to concentrate on it because it does come across if you are self-conscious. My problem is being able to convience the employer that I am willing to accept a lower paying position than my past work history reflects. I have tried scaling it down, but it has not worked in some instances. Atlanta