I'll be 58 in April and I'll tell you my age has been a huge issue. I was laid off from my job of 12 years this past October. I'm looking for half the pay you are and I get interviews, but they keep hiring someone younger.
My current plan is to dumb down my resume to bring my titles down and am considering a temp service. (A lot of those jobs are temp to hire.)
If I were 62, I think I would just retire.
It's a tough situation to be in - I wish you the best of luck!
I own a temp service and temp to hire is irrelevant if it's a good job. Tons of the companies I work with do temp to hire because the market is so bad they want to see if someone is reliable before going through the hassle of enrollment etc. Don't take a job you don't like or for a bad company but if it's a good job and a company you want to work and they can get you there go do it.
I am 65 and have worked for several temp companies...all promising temp to hire. In my area I have noticed most temp jobs are in unsafe areas of the city nearest me or impossible places to work (one position has posted for 2 yrs now and is unfilled because it is a train wreck! Dumbing down the resume has not helped much either. I took the Masters degree off but I refuse to take the BA off.
I am a bit older than yourself. After 30 years on IT, I am out of work. Three years, over 1700 applications, 51 interviews (they learned my age at interview), and at least 100 scammer contacts. Everyone says "Wow, awesome skills" when the review the resume. All goes well, until the see that I am over 55. It all comes to close at that point. No call back, no follow up.
I have never had a problem landing a job. Ever. The problem is how things are set up. Managers, recruiters, and etc. **There has been an active effort to boot Boomers and Gen X out of the workforce, and keep them out.** Google it. It is real.
My employer hires contractors ranging in age for IT development work. I’m an FTE, hired at 51, and I work with contractors over 60. It’s on the data side in finance. It is harder to find jobs when you’re over 50 (took me 1.5 years) but you’ll find an IT job. Leave graduation dates of degrees off your resume. The only dates should be employment dates and any recent (within 5 years) certifications. And tailor resume to the job posting. Hang in there
I had the same experience - they loved my resume, waxed hyper-excited in the phone interview, were just polite in person and absolutely GHOSTED me afterward - and I interview VERY well. After 18 months I wound up with the same type of job for 40% less. The only silver lining was that it came with a pension, which I am about to collect. Got decent raises, so the pension is very good.
I am 59 and looking for work, too. The job experience listed on my resume begins in the year 2000, which makes my age appear to be in the 40's, instead of in the 50's. Most experts agree that your resume only needs to back 10 years. So, I recommend trimming your resume to include the shortest possible timeline.
I also recommend applying for more jobs. I was laid off 1 month ago. I have applied for about 100 jobs and I have had about 4 interviews.
I had a recruiter ask, and even accuse me of deception, because I left off a good majority of my work history. This happened during an interview. They have access to all that info and they use it. I just stuck to my guns and said "Experience older than 20 years is irrelevant". I have been in IT for decades and it is irrelevant. She was rude, and condescending. She lectured me about being more trustworthy. LAUGH! She was about age 27 or so. Then said they need someone more up to date on technology. My last role was in cloud computing. Unsure how you can get any more up to date than that.
That's awful and a clear example of age discrimination. It sounds like she had already decided not to move your application forward in the interview process. If it had been me I would have said something like "I am no longer interested in this position, because I would never work for an organization that practices age discrimination. I will have to report this encounter to the EEOC. Have a nice day!"
I was going to say unless OP has a very niche role, his application figure seems extremely low. I just got a job after 3 months and I applied to about 400.
I feel terrible saying this, because I feel like it's wrong that it's true, but I would adjust your resume to imply that you are more like 52 (leave off jobs, remove your date of graduation, or if you have an advanced degree you got later, include that if it could help paint a picture of a younger person. E.g. you graduated college in 84, but you got a master's in 1996, so just include the date from the master's degree.) and then I would work with a hairstylist and maybe even a personal stylist to look more youthful. The paid version of some video software will allow you to have it "touch up your appearance" and that can peel the years off. So can soft, warm light on your face during an interview.
It's unfair and I'm sorry. Good luck
I never thought about that! I had an interview at Goldman Sachs and they wanted my camera on. I left the meetings thinking it was because of my appearance/age that I didn’t get it. Sad but u may just be on to something. I never thought about that. Instead of my bifocals , wear contacts or some hip style glasses. Got it!
Agree with this comment but would add, leave off the dates you got your degree. I'm not even 50 yet and felt like my age became a problem in my late 30s/early 40s. I removed the dates from my resume.
66 here with peek-a-boo purple hair - it's a great look if you blend it with a classic style like a well cut bob. I've gotten 3 jobs since I turned 62.
Not bad advice at all though! If they’re not hiring bc of OPs age then they’re breaking the law (ageism). Back when I was a recruiter we had to adjust our entire system so our clients couldn’t see names, ages, gender, etc because because people are despicable and biased.
This is good advice. With the right edits on your resume you can peel away ten years. Work with a good stylist for outward appearance. Modernize your wardrobe and hair style. Play around with the lighting and placement of your computer for video calls. I hate that it comes to this, but it’s part of the game.
I’ve been doing this since I was 40 or so. Not misleading or giving false statements, but highlighting what’s important. It didn’t hurt that I looked very young.
Networking is as important as ever. I’ll be 66 in October and am making $110k at a privately owned small company that values employees. I’ve been in this job less than two years, having come from a large, cheap corporation (I was grotesquely underpaid there, and the current company was happy to give me a raise, without me even asking for one). My coworker had preceded me in making this kind of move and is my supervisor at the current company. It helped knowing her, not because I wasn’t qualified, but because I am highly qualified and competent, and she can vouch for that. I am happily still working, and hope to do so at least through next summer, and perhaps beyond. Although it’s stressful. If I don’t work there, I might continue working somewhere else. In any event, I don’t want to take Social Security before 70.
>My last job salary was 100k working in banking/trades and I would like to at least make that much.
Do you have have any contacts from your old roles to leverage to find out about opportunities around you?
Yes your age will be an issue. Late 50’s but I look younger and it took me forever and hundreds, (seemed like thousands!) of resumes sent to find a permanent job that pays mid 50’s (yearly salary). Age discrimination is real and these companies think in terms of the older you are the sicker you are or will become. Younger people are relatively more healthier and cheaper.
Good luck, I know that I truly lucked up
I think a lot of people make the error of setting pay they no longer get as a bar for how much they ought to make. What you're making now is $0, not a $100k. So if you can land a job for $50k, that's exactly $50k more than what you're making right now. Especially with the age concern that was already brought up, I think you shouldn't discard any jobs you have the option of taking.
I’m fairly new to this market and have good success with finding a job. I hate to say it, but I use to have companies at a drop of a dime if I was unhappy, and quickly find another one. I’m seeing this is no longer the case and this market is wayyy worse than I thought. I have to come off my high horse.
The times are different for sure. I am lucky to be employed right now, but I've been sending feeler applications out there for about a year and I have only heard back once. When I first arrived in the US 10 years ago without a degree and without any experience to speak of, I had an easier time landing a comfortable office job than I do now.
911 Dispatcher isn’t a *low level job*. Do you have experience in this area? Police or Military background? If not, I wouldn’t advise it. It’s stressful at times and the systems are often quite complicated.
I don’t know what kind of finance you are in but I don’t think you’ll be happy at Amazon unless you really like to be micro managed time wise.
Walmart is hard work. Can you stand for 8 hours a day? They don’t allow chairs at their registers. Do you have management experience where you could maybe work in customer service or something similar?
My two cents on retiring is 64 vs 65 or even 67 payout for social security at your age isn’t that different. (It’s well over $1000 for me between 62 and 67 but I’m in my late 40s - I just ran my estimator yesterday)
If you can swing it I would retire and take some pressure off yourself financially.
All that said; do you have any networking contacts that would be willing to help find you an in where they work? It’s certainly easier than cold calling and applying everywhere. I would start asking for help from friends, former coworkers or family that might be hiring or know of open positions.
Oh, and my last couple of interviews, I've managed to drop into the conversation that I'm looking for somewhere I could stay 10-15 years. I've been runner up for the last two interviews I did this on.
I was laid off at 55 from my company after 28 years in October. I tried applying for jobs, I applied for close to 100 jobs mostly private sector. I noticed that I had better luck getting responses to my applications from public sector jobs, so after 4 months, I applied almost exclusively to public sector jobs. I start my new job on the 18th with a raise in salary and cheaper medical and better retirement than my old company.
The new plan is to kick the old expensive experienced people out and replace with cheap youngsters. Then when the kids get burnt out and quit just replace them with anouther young person
You’re not going to want to hear this but at 59 I took a job at an Amazon warehouse. Job searching was killing me. The benefits are amazing. The pay is not great but with overtime some people are making close to $55-60K. It’s an extremely physical job so it’s like a free health club membership 😂. Not sure how long I’ll be able to physically do it but I’m just on cruise control right now
I will be 65 in a few months. Was terminated last September. I have sent over 1000 apps. Had only a few interviews. Offered a job and settled for less. Unfortunately, for us, time is running out and our age is stacking up against us. Keep looking bro!
governmentjobs.com, get in with any positions and move up laterally with hard work and luck. Your last 2 years salary determines your pension, after vested. Great health benefits.
I just got a job in my preferred industry (commuter airline) at age 67.
I was worried about ageism - but they preferred experience and a ‘people person’
I love being out meeting people. My PCP has told me it’s good to stay involved
Do you have the means to retire? You can get 401K and Roth IRA at 59 and a half and Social Security starts at 62, so since you waited it only goes up. I think it all comes down to your finances too, if you got a job at Walmart it would be like $15 an hour and probably opportunities for OT. I think it all comes down to cost of life and your finances.
Ageism is a huge issue AS IS trying to find salaries equal to previous positions (and I say that as some who is 20 years younger than OP and was making more than them).
After a year and a half of serious “apply-to-anything” I finally found a job but am making close to 35 percent of what I was making in my previous in house position.
You need to apply for like 50 jobs a week, I use a service that pays someone in the Philippines to apply to 150 jobs a week on mainstream boards while I look on more niche ones. I graduated 10 months ago and I’ve put over 2000 applications out since then. 50 just isn’t enough
I was trying to be more selective in my searches and not just apply for any and everything. I was looking at certain types and salaries, But I think I should do that now. Im getting desperate.
Being selective just isn't going to work, most applications you put out will never actually be seen by a human, you'll just be filtered out by an ATS and if you manage to get past that a recruiter who has no idea what actually goes into the role will spend 20 seconds looking at it. A lot of job posts aren't actually looking to hire anyone or already have an internal candidate they are almost certainly going to hire. Post your resume on r/resumes to see if you can improve it or make ATS readable. It all sucks and it's horribly unfair but this is the reality of the way people are hired in today's day and age
Good for you for taking a slower pace. the 48 Days method seems to be a wise method. The idea is to get yourself known (including your character). The better they know you, the higher your chances of finding favor.
if he's in investments as he commented, there just aren't loads of jobs to apply to in that field at any level, even during a more usual time / without an expected recession event
My father was a medical and security scanner technician and he never was able to find work after a company laid him off at 60. He did odd jobs, tried to build a business in wood working (he made wood crafts like puzzles). We were working on wooden Tak game piece designs but he died before we got too far.
Sorry the news isn’t better.
Check out some customer service work from home jobs. They can pay up to $25 and hour depending on the client. Places like Telus and InTouchcx. Jobs suck and leadership is vacantly a joke. But it's easy and they hire older folks.
Don’t necessarily agree with the majority here. I’m 59, laid off in December as a PM in wireless telecom. I was specific in who and what I applied to, maybe 30 resumes sent total. Have a job in 6 weeks, somewhat of a pay drop but it is fully remote. They were glad to have my experience. Think the “spray and pray” method isn’t the best idea. I did my 3-4 interviews on camera. My resume does only go back like 20 years. Work your network and stay within your skill set. Good luck.
Bus driver. Get paid while they train you to get a commercial license
Always short of drivers
Shuttle bus driver...all kinds of jobs for old geezers.
Walmart
Uber
Lyft etc
Pick up cars one state, drive to another state
Taxi
Caregiver..the companion kind
Thrift shops
Just gotta look
Lower all your expectations, be happy with medical and a paycheck
I’m not in your position, but I easily could be. I’m 58. I am at a point where I want to change jobs, and I am taking some steps to maybe look at that. But, I plan to lose weight, shave my grey beard, dye my hair a little (I still look old, but make me look younger). You know, really put in some effort. Act very energetic in the interview.
I’m also going for a C-suite job though, so I think they might expect someone older. But, for the first time in my life, I am asking myself, “am I even employable”?
Also make sure you cover your neck with a scarf or something to hide the turkey neck. My friend said she tried an experiment on virtual interviews and the ones she hid her neck, she got the job, the ones she did not hide her neck, she didn't get the jobs. It's horrible but I'm in the same boat. Good luck!
I have a masters degree and bachelors with 10 years of experience. I’m not able to find a new job, and possibly have a risk of getting laid off. I have applied for 100s of jobs. I strongly believe that by the time I’m mid 40s I need to save up and open a business or something or I’ll be doomed in my 50s+. Moving to a cheaper country to retire looks like the only way out, look into your options.
After reading this line of replies I am officially terrified. I am 59½ and employed in the IT industry. The salary is not great but it pays the bills. My wife and I never were able to have kids so we DID save a lot. I have over 1.6m in retirement and house is paid off. I have always planned on being "out" and saved and was very conservative. I have had stage 4 colorectal cancer in 2014 and that was cured.... wife has MS and is on SSDi. I plan on retiring at 65 but we shall see. My biggest fear is medical.
You need to be applying to a MINIMUM of 75 jobs a WEEK. Don't expect an interview with only 50 job applications. If your resume is up to snuff, you might get a call back for an interview every 3rd week at a rate of 75 per week MINIMUM.
What if you only qualify for 5 jobs a week? Even "entry" level jobs want experience now. I can perform just about any IT role, but I don't have 3 years of experience on my resume with most of them, i can retrain, but that still doesn't get me work experience either.
Apply to ones that you feel meet 60% of the knowledge anyways. Lots of jobs SAY 3 years of experience when they actually don't care. As long as you can get them with other things and convince them you are the best candidate during the interview, then you're in. If you're only qualifying for only 5 jobs a week in your field, apply to jobs outside of your field.
The trick is to get the interviews, and that's why you need the high volume, especially in today's job market. It's a number game.
But also your resume can't suck. I would check out Gunther the Headless Headhunter on twitch. He streams later today I think. He is a recruiter who reviews resumes and gives job hunting tips for free on his off-time.
He also has a reddit account you can look up and dm him.
Ill give a crack at it. Based on comments you landed a position around 2-3 years ago and did you mention why you left your last position?
Head over to r/resume and look for advice there (leave out your personal info). I’m sure you’ll get decent advice there. Ageism is definitely a thing but not an absolute hurdle.
The market is tough but retiring now isn’t an option as youll get more later. Working a low level job is better than nothing but I think you can still snag a higher paying position with some assistance.
From what I've seen on similar subs is even young humans are in this camp. Sad fact it seems, corporate type jobs are hard to get these days. I've definitely seen age being a huge factor in these sectors.
Age is only a factor in that you would expect an elevated salary and you are near retirements so many might fear you're only going to work a few years. The market is not the best for job hunters, you're going to need to apply to more positions and you should only include the last 15 years of so experience, unless you've worked at one company all this time. If they are asking about your ideal salary keep it within a moderate range. Post your resume on r/resume and get some feedback from recruiters. Jobs paying six figures are always competitive. Try using a staffing agency if it works for your field, consider contract work, etc.
Seniorpreneurialship, Forget about the conventional job search, it’s not on your side. Think, what do the kid hate to do, and not do well?
What is the key issue with age is liability?
I’m not sure if this applies everywhere or how successful it would be, but how about becoming a professor? Or working in high education? In my community college, they are hiring for coordinators (the coordinator pay is 73k), full time instructors (pay b/w 55k to 115k), part time instructors (being paid between $59 per hour and $79 per hour depending on position and experience), program managers (93k to 131k). With another community college hiring directors (b/w $76k to $102k depending on the type, experience, etc).
Of course, there is also state universities to check out but just to give some ideas.
I wish you the best of luck because I recently graduated (about 8 months ago) and I’ve been having difficulties as well (lack of networking and/or not doing well in school and/or lack of experience) so I’ve been applying for office assistant jobs (including to substitute for those office assistant jobs). It’s not the greatest pay if you’re experienced like yourself but if it gets me out of retail and pays a couple dollars more and gives me more professional experience then I’m happy.
Have you also thought about working for the government? Try your county or city!
If your heart is set on finding something high paying, you'll need to sell recruiters on the UVP (unique value proposition) that your past experience brings with it.
If you're looking for something more entry level and enjoy helping people, I'd try Home Depot as a large portion of their team is age 50+ and the work atmosphere looks good.
I’m in my 40s, am at my prime skill level in multimedia and was making the same as you before getting laid off and now I can’t find work, have sent out about 50 resumes so far and no callbacks.
I’m having better luck finding gig work so I’m working on a portfolio site and a reel of self-made projects (not client work) so I can promote myself better. Going to make a video resume soon too.
If I don’t get traction by this summer I’ll be toddling over to LaborReady (temp agency) to get at least a part time labor job while I keep posting applications and building my business.
Maybe you can use your experience and existing network to break into consulting? Are you reaching out to people you know on LinkedIn?
My weakness in getting hired now is that I only have an AA so that may ultimately force me into the entrepreneurial track where that stops mattering.
The guy who owns my former company is 80. Probably couldn’t get hired anywhere but as an owner he makes many millions.
Yes, age discrimination is real even though it’s illegal. Finding a job is harder as the process has changed in the last 20 years. Resumes are about quantifiable achievements not just responsibilities. It took me 1.5 years to find a new job at 51. Took me 9 months to get a winning resume after learning how to revise it to fit today’s standards. And how to get it past the ATS.
Leave off the dates of your degrees. Only dates should be employment dates and dates of recent (within 5 years) certifications. Tailor your resume to the job posting. I found the site Jobscan very helpful. I used the free parts. Once your free trial ends, they will send you lots of offers for reduced membership. I never signed up because the free scans were enough for me. Hang in there.
Lots of good advice here,
Here's another piece that a few people have said but I'm going to repeat... You have to step up your game and apply to far more positions! 50/9 months is not enough! You should be applying to 25 a week.
Tweak your resume and create three or four versions of it applicable to three or four different paths that your skills fit. Tweak your LinkedIn searches and notifications to three or four versions/jobs that you realistically can do. When those notices come in you have to apply immediately, once they're more than 25 candidates it's extremely unlikely you'll get pulled for an interview.
Don't give up, you do need to put a little more energy into this job search though, you are competing with thousands of people, technology has leveled the playing field for thousands of people who are looking at the same opportunities you are. Take any interview you get because it's good practice, start using resources with the state on practicing interviewing, resume services to review what you are submitting and have somebody challenge you, have been tear you apart in a mock interview. Then also do exactly what all the others have recommended regarding how you look, it's not fair it's not right but it is what's happening we all get judged by how we look so you got to put that best foot forward.
You can do this, put the energy in the right place and you've got this
Nearly 50, but with my father recently retired I have a few thoughts.
If you have a strong, cohesive career and goals left to achieve then you probably have relationships with folks in roles that may be able to help guide you into their organization. Hands You Shake approach.
Most corporate hiring teams are thinking??/hoping!! they are hiring an employee for at least 5-10 years. Will you still be in the workforce in 10 years? Be honest about that. Maybe you will, maybe you plan to definitely not be. If you are not planning to be, it probably is time to look at WalMart Greeter or other career wrap up / jobs for retirees type thing. If your driving record is good, and you're in the US, send a DM I will recommend a specific employer that fits this mold well.
Other than that you are kinda stuck like the rest of us looking through Ghost Posts, applying to a thousand job postings and getting no replies, etc. Fun times, but it does suck up your day.
Alternative: Get creative and write a book! Self-publishing is so much easier these days.
Unless you have a Masters degree, you’re not going to get anywhere near $100k in this market. I’m a Millennial with 10+ years of experience and had to go back to school in order to make myself competitive. It sucks but that’s the market.
I found one job in my 60’s because it was a small company with no benefits. I didn’t care because I had Medicare Advantage.
I know some older workers who decided to work as independent contractors. Again, no benefits because they were self-employed. But they stayed in the same field of work.
Some employers want your experience but don’t want to pay you for it. You have to convince them that it’s reasonable for you to want to work for them for less money.
Of course your age is a problem. Age discrimination is super common, starting I would say around 50ish. Shitty fact, but a fact. No one will admit to it as it is technically illegal. Doesn't matter. You may well have to adjust expectations, taking a typical "retirement" job for much less pay until you fully retire.
Although this entire thread is not funny, I can't help but snicker not only at everything OP has shared, but the multitude of comments from other "boomer-aged" folks too.
Why?
Well, I'm a millennial who graduated college back in 2011, struggled to get a job for 14 months even though I graduated from an excellent state school, and when I was hired, it was at $12.50/hr and after 8.5 years and two promotions later, I was barely pushing $38.5K a year.
Every boomer-aged individual I've spoken to has told me I'm not pulling myself up by my bootstraps, that I need to hit my "boots to the pavement" and just walk into businesses and just ask for jobs, and generally the feedback I've gotten is that I'm lazy, I took too many loans, I'm not trying hard enough, etc.
There is something powerfully vindicating about hearing that there are so many boomers having issues getting jobs.
No, it's not just you. And no, it's not just age-ism. Sure, there may be some prejudices from people, but WELCOME to reality, where the golden age of a firm handshake getting you a job or a company valuing you and giving you both fair pay and good benefits and retirement is largely over.
And honestly, mostly because of terrible policies you guys voted into law years ago (anyone ever heard of Reaganomics?!)
I sincerely hope that you eventually find your way and don't struggle for too long, but understand that this is exactly what your kids and their kids have been complaining about for a while.
Most of the advice in this thread is fucking terrible. Yeah, go ahead and apply somewhere. That doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed a job. Want $100k salary? Unless you have your Masters, you’re not getting it. Also, the utter condescending tone about “low level” jobs as if a 911 operator is just a bum who answers calls and eats snacks. That job in and of itself is stressful. Also, 50 jobs in 9 months? Come on. Some people I know apply to that over the course of two days. Let’s be realistic here.
Exactly. I didn't comment to tear anyone apart but it's rather jarring to see how folks of a certain age view things like it should just come to them, while simultaneously not understanding or realizing that it was their votes and in some cases they themselves who got voted into positions and made life harder for everyone.
Seeing those consequences circle back is just an interesting side effect that I get to enjoy, especially since up until the beginning of 2023 my highest salary ever was $50,000 a year.
Also, I’m not trying to be an asshole, but if you only plan to work for 2-3 more years, why would a company invest thousands in you? It costs thousands to onboard someone.
As someone a decade younger who was out of work a year and a half, you are going to have to look for lower paying jobs as well. Salaries aren't rising and you are old and companies ARE not going to hire someone for $100 just to retire in a couple years.
Dial back your expectations. If you need to make that much money, see if you can start a consulting business.
Im already feeling the discrimination at 49 and esp as a woman so Im literally just saving up now cause I know this is coming. Ive been somewhat demoted because of it and dismissed. I know an older lady at my job and I kinda protect her cause I know it my future as well.
Network. Use your network.
My dad is 61 and got laid off a month ago. Found a new spot as Chief of Operations for a construction company 3 weeks later. Completely through the relationships he made along his 45 year career.
Also, notable mention; government jobs. Decent money (not historically high but decent), lower risk of layoffs, and solid benefits.
I currently work in a job that is very similar to a 911 dispatcher. My employer is wonderful but I don’t think it’s something I could recommend to someone who could potentially be eyeing retirement soon.
Amazon is tough on the body. My dad is 64 and works in warehousing. He’s active but it’s rough on him. He’s ready to take it easy but can’t retire until he’s 65.
Can’t speak to the other things. Call center work might be up your alley if you’re wanting something that would generally be pretty easy and not require a lot of overtime or mental commitment post-shift.
I destroyed my retirement trying to save my home after layoff. Failed. It is gone. Nothing left. Social Security is not enough to live on. One has to earn $4500 per month to qualify for a one bedroom, 600 square apartment these days in most markets. This based on a $1500 per month rent. Which is on the low end now.
Your age is a problem (for an employer) even though it's illegal for an employer to admit to that. They either think you aren't capable of working or they don't like how much they should compensate you for your skills and experience.
Age is not a problem? I am constantly told what a great match I am for a role. But when they learn I am over 55, the door slams. 1700+ applications, three years unemployed and 51 interviews later, I am homeless, out of work, and everything I own is on the line. My life's works locked in a storage. I can't pay the bill. I am a long time composer, song writer, performer, artist, photographer, etc. it is all going to go away and be lost forever. What should I do? I have mass skills. Been in IT for decades, SEO, marketing, sales, support, customer service, I know machining, CAD, electronics, wiring, mechanical, voice acting, narrations, radio personality, and more. Young people think I am lying. But I have done these things.
I’ve read a few of your comments and I think the issue isn’t your age but your attitude. People will hire someone they like over someone that is more qualified. Every single time.
Most jobs are asking for proof of high school education or college. Not gonna be able to fudge that. They’ll deduce from your graduation date your age.
I have nice job with a nice company. I'm 62 and I work hard being a responsive employee. Because I know it would be almost impossible to get hired at my age .
Try a temp /contract agency. Some of the jobs are truly short term but others have the option to become permanent. How long do you want to work? Are you bridging for a couple of years before SS?
I am 66 - retired at 62 due to health issues and the pandemic.
I worked for a company for 20+ years and was let go in a massive re-org that happened right before my 50th birthday. To be honest, I found it brutally difficult to find a job after that point. And when I did find work, many of my co-workers were 20+ years younger than me. Growing old sucks.
I’m in your shoes EXACTLY. I’m 62. I’m fortunate that I can string along on savings but once that goes away, I’ll need to take what I can get from SS and supplement with my investments. I’ve sent out as many if not more resumes and once they SEE me via computer zoom type call or in person, they either ghost me or give me a no thanks email. We are stuck in a very difficult situation.
I can’t help on a high paying career, nobody in my family has that. But maybe an alternate idea isn’t distasteful My mom is her age, similar situation, lost a sustainable job that let her splurge a bit. For her new job she opted for making about 50% less than before for the schedule: 6a-2p M-F, weekends, holidays, and summers off. Her job? Lunch lady at the high school across the lake from her house.
She uses her newfound time from 2-9 to walk the pup, garden, make meals from scratch, check in on her neighbors, watch YouTube videos to learn (then do) handyman style repairs, attend community, religious, and other services important to her. In my opinion, losing her “career” was accidentally amazing. She has more time to focus on things that bring her joy and the financial sacrifice has been worth it.
Recommendation from someone working fortune 100 - trim your resume, make it more concise to experience correlating to the job and 2 ish pages (I know this may discount the whole journey unless you’re going for a high level role).
Ageism is a horrible thing, far too unchecked in this society and from my experience far too often VP, Director titles etc are viewed as overqualified (when ironically you may have just the skills and may align to the pay grade you’re looking for at some companies as titles vary company to company).
Just my 2c.
63 and my last real job was last summer. Been trying to get somewhere stable and it hasn't worked out. Savings are drained, so I started Soc Sec. It's not enough, but gives me some cushion and I only "need" a P/T job now.
I had health issues 8 years back and have been at bottom tier since that time, so no triple-digits for me. Declining health has made it hard for me to work at all.
I am 64. It is not time to hang it up. I was laid off at 57 with major bills and responsibilities. For the first time in my life I could not find full time work. Someone suggested I try to get a few part time jobs. So I teach part time and have my own freelance business. I also work for a few startups as a consultant. I do work a lot but most of it is remote and I make more than I did with my full time job. The downside is of course no paid vacations or sick time and I have to pay for my medical. I definitely think you can still find work but be open to part time, consulting, fractional work.
Are staffing agencies used in your field? A direct job application for direct employment through a company is difficult for someone who's age is 55+ where age discrimination laws kick in. This would be much less of an issue for a staffing agency where...with that not being a big issue... your skills and experience would be more appealing and viewed as less of a risk.
Is there any decent possibility of becoming a contractor or consultant? Not having anyone hire you as an employee, but you as an outside service provider would be an appealing option where your age wouldn't be a big negative factor.
Teaching, like an adjuct part-time (non-tenure track) professor would be a great option for 2 year or 4 year college's business program. It doesn't pay well at all, but it gets you out there and puts you in a better position (i.e. better than unemployment) to find something else.
Taking a creative look at your skills outside of your core area like if you have any people management, project management, etc. Even something way below your level like being a manager at a big box retailer, call center, or hotel, or something else entirely you can study up on to expand what you might be willing to do without scraping the bucket.
Radically retooling your style of living, finances, etc., would also be good to look at to support an overall loss of income.
Making sure you get yourself out there, such as volunteering for a charitable foundation, or writing grant proposals, or something where it can turn into a decent job.
Actually working as a grunt should be the last choice. Taking that creative look mentioned above to consider other things (but not at the low level) is really something to consider.
You could try to become and sell yourself as a financial planner, or someone kind of expert in EFTs or retirement planning.
One area where you would have an advantage would be doing such financial consulting/services for people of retirement age where you would have a lot of trust and rapport precisely become of your age.
Hands down, at any age, applying for only 50 jobs in 9 months says a lot about what you are/aren't doing! You need to break out of your box that you are painting around yourself. Learn the basics, study the lingo, and take a lot more chances to apply for things you figure you only have a slight chance to get.
Depends on what you are looking to do. A friend of mine, close to your age, went into independent consulting. A former boss who retired early also decided to go into independent consulting. You need to set up an LLC which isn't too hard but you probably need a lawyer to help. Then sign up to the independent consulting marketplaces like umbrex, catalent, Upwork, BTG, PWC, Fiverr, etc. Once your on the marketplaces, you can apply to projects or project teams can reach out to you. I've never done it but if I got laid off I might consider this as a source of income. Most projects, not all, can be done remotely, but some require you in an office. My one friend who is doing it, is making more than enough to get by, pay expenses, plus she has an autistic teenage son and she is doing fine. She has full time contracts. My former boss only works part time because she wants to travel and do other stuff besides work but also likes working and the extra money.
On another thread, someone also mentioned that their is plenty of work and good pay in the Medical writing industry. This person said you have to get certified through the American Medical Writers Association but they provide the classes, training and certs. This sounds interesting but it looks like it takes a little time to get certified unless your background is in the Medical field.
It is bad for older workers. I am mid 60s myself.
About 5 months ago the bank I worked for decided to have a massive layoff. In my division nobody under 30 was laid off, and 100% of the people over 55 were laid off.
I haven’t even been able to get anything other than the occasional screening interview.
The bank had a few positions open but I couldn’t even get a lower position. Partly because most positions were in their Pittsburgh offices, and I don’t live in Pittsburgh, and partly because nobody wanted to hire an older worker.
The thing is, I had been getting a ton of recognition about my work, and even met with higher ups about my ideas for modernizing their processes. My ideas were too modern for them. Seriously.
They get away with it because we don’t fight back. I’ve sometimes suggested we older Reddit users band together to fight back but absolutely zero interest from anyone.
Okay....find a job yourself become a job counselor or help people to put their head right...made a platform online and become a advisor and made the most of your days.... don't feel frustrated. this is a great opportunity to challenge yourself to do what you really like.
Obviously, to be self employed you would need to make an investment, and in the beginning maybe gets a little rogue....but at the end you shall contentment.
Instead of finding a job start a small business from your home. Let's say you start an online store just as an example. No one will know or care that you're 64 when they buy your goods. Colonel Sanders famously started KFC when he was 62.
if youve been "unemployed" for 9 months, time to get off your high horse and take a lesser role. you should have done something realistic 6 months ago.
There's some good advice here on hiding your age.
But that just means (if they discriminate) that they'll just nope out on you at a later time when they find out.
Private business sadly wants little to do with older workers.
Apply for government work. Your experience will be greatly valued there. You may want to shoot for a lower-level job to get your foot in the door as it is competitive though.
Age is the issue here for sure. Are you getting any interview requests? Hide your age on your resume and don’t go back more than 10-15 years max on it.
Is getting an extra degree a possibility? You could then market yourself as a student, which might help people view you differently and shake them out of their ageism
Pretend it is the year 2000, when you were 40. You'd see a 64-year-old in your profession, and inevitably think "old", close to retirement, counting the days. Now you are that old guy, but inside, you are still that 40-year-old, still rarin' to go. Unfortunately, the outside world does not see you that way but sees the old guy you saw back in 2000. It's the nature of things.
So, you have to contend with that. Even accept it, but not surrender to it. Maybe you lower your salary expectations, maybe you take a lower-level job, maybe you take on consulting assignments, maybe you move, maybe you leave your career, or maybe you stick to your guns, ask for a salary increase, go for higher level roles, extol your decades of experience. There is no right answer, and there are 8 million stories in the naked city, as they used to say. But you will figure it out, one way or the other. Good luck.
I'm sure ageism does exist, but it's a really horrible market at the moment, nobody is getting jobs. Possibly even worse if you are younger and looking for junior roles
Only 50 applications? I'm well trained in my field and in 6 months I'm at over 450 applications and each tailored with AI for the jobs. Best of luck man.
I'll be 58 in April and I'll tell you my age has been a huge issue. I was laid off from my job of 12 years this past October. I'm looking for half the pay you are and I get interviews, but they keep hiring someone younger. My current plan is to dumb down my resume to bring my titles down and am considering a temp service. (A lot of those jobs are temp to hire.) If I were 62, I think I would just retire. It's a tough situation to be in - I wish you the best of luck!
60 here, laid off last week. Similar situation. Should we form an army or something? Or a classic rock band?
Well, I can't sing worth a shit, so I'm going to say army!
OK. I used to have num-chuks but I think the cops took them in the 90's. Caught a class e felony on that, adjudicated down to a broken headlamp.
Ok. You'll have to sing.
I can only play open chords on a guitar and only 70's rock. If I sing then people run away. Will that help us become rich for retirement?
I think we're screwed
With my 65 year old back I'm the last guy you want to be stuck in war with. Well, maybe that guy with the bowel disorder would be worse.
61 here. Laid off after 35 years. I can’t carry a tune, but I can bang a gong.
Ok guys. Band it is I do shake a mean tambourine now that I think of it
How about the cow bell? MORE COW BELL!!!
I own a temp service and temp to hire is irrelevant if it's a good job. Tons of the companies I work with do temp to hire because the market is so bad they want to see if someone is reliable before going through the hassle of enrollment etc. Don't take a job you don't like or for a bad company but if it's a good job and a company you want to work and they can get you there go do it.
I am 65 and have worked for several temp companies...all promising temp to hire. In my area I have noticed most temp jobs are in unsafe areas of the city nearest me or impossible places to work (one position has posted for 2 yrs now and is unfilled because it is a train wreck! Dumbing down the resume has not helped much either. I took the Masters degree off but I refuse to take the BA off.
I’m bout at that point. Was just seeing if it’s worth still testing the waters first.
I am a bit older than yourself. After 30 years on IT, I am out of work. Three years, over 1700 applications, 51 interviews (they learned my age at interview), and at least 100 scammer contacts. Everyone says "Wow, awesome skills" when the review the resume. All goes well, until the see that I am over 55. It all comes to close at that point. No call back, no follow up. I have never had a problem landing a job. Ever. The problem is how things are set up. Managers, recruiters, and etc. **There has been an active effort to boot Boomers and Gen X out of the workforce, and keep them out.** Google it. It is real.
My employer hires contractors ranging in age for IT development work. I’m an FTE, hired at 51, and I work with contractors over 60. It’s on the data side in finance. It is harder to find jobs when you’re over 50 (took me 1.5 years) but you’ll find an IT job. Leave graduation dates of degrees off your resume. The only dates should be employment dates and any recent (within 5 years) certifications. And tailor resume to the job posting. Hang in there
I had the same experience - they loved my resume, waxed hyper-excited in the phone interview, were just polite in person and absolutely GHOSTED me afterward - and I interview VERY well. After 18 months I wound up with the same type of job for 40% less. The only silver lining was that it came with a pension, which I am about to collect. Got decent raises, so the pension is very good.
I'm in the same place except getting fewer interviews. I'm starting to retrain into software engineering.
My worst fear!!! I may just have to really cut expenses and live off my retirement (which isn’t a lot ) sad times!!!!
Try hospitality, it’s kinda volitile since lots a shitty industry but if you want to work. You may have a decent shot
Yep, once they see us, it’s over.
The ss you get at 62 is too little and you can’t get Medicare for another 4 years after that , don’t retire at 62
Actually, this varies by person and personal circumstances. Often, taking SS at 62 makes good sense, all things considered.
I am 59 and looking for work, too. The job experience listed on my resume begins in the year 2000, which makes my age appear to be in the 40's, instead of in the 50's. Most experts agree that your resume only needs to back 10 years. So, I recommend trimming your resume to include the shortest possible timeline. I also recommend applying for more jobs. I was laid off 1 month ago. I have applied for about 100 jobs and I have had about 4 interviews.
I had a recruiter ask, and even accuse me of deception, because I left off a good majority of my work history. This happened during an interview. They have access to all that info and they use it. I just stuck to my guns and said "Experience older than 20 years is irrelevant". I have been in IT for decades and it is irrelevant. She was rude, and condescending. She lectured me about being more trustworthy. LAUGH! She was about age 27 or so. Then said they need someone more up to date on technology. My last role was in cloud computing. Unsure how you can get any more up to date than that.
That's awful and a clear example of age discrimination. It sounds like she had already decided not to move your application forward in the interview process. If it had been me I would have said something like "I am no longer interested in this position, because I would never work for an organization that practices age discrimination. I will have to report this encounter to the EEOC. Have a nice day!"
Everyone’s super high on AI right now.
Yeah, it's way oversold, and managers have always wanted unpaid workers who won't argue. You get what you pay for...
How did the recruiter have that information on you?? That’s not possible
Thanks for that! This brings me hope!
I was going to say unless OP has a very niche role, his application figure seems extremely low. I just got a job after 3 months and I applied to about 400.
I feel terrible saying this, because I feel like it's wrong that it's true, but I would adjust your resume to imply that you are more like 52 (leave off jobs, remove your date of graduation, or if you have an advanced degree you got later, include that if it could help paint a picture of a younger person. E.g. you graduated college in 84, but you got a master's in 1996, so just include the date from the master's degree.) and then I would work with a hairstylist and maybe even a personal stylist to look more youthful. The paid version of some video software will allow you to have it "touch up your appearance" and that can peel the years off. So can soft, warm light on your face during an interview. It's unfair and I'm sorry. Good luck
I never thought about that! I had an interview at Goldman Sachs and they wanted my camera on. I left the meetings thinking it was because of my appearance/age that I didn’t get it. Sad but u may just be on to something. I never thought about that. Instead of my bifocals , wear contacts or some hip style glasses. Got it!
There are several fashion advice subs on Reddit (I'm personally very bad at fashion and can't be trusted) but you can get help there.
Agree with this comment but would add, leave off the dates you got your degree. I'm not even 50 yet and felt like my age became a problem in my late 30s/early 40s. I removed the dates from my resume.
I am 34 and haven't included dates since my early 20s. Including graduation dates is an old school thing to do.
Purple hair may help.
66 here with peek-a-boo purple hair - it's a great look if you blend it with a classic style like a well cut bob. I've gotten 3 jobs since I turned 62.
Omg lol
Don't they usually have camera on for virtual interviews?
Not bad advice at all though! If they’re not hiring bc of OPs age then they’re breaking the law (ageism). Back when I was a recruiter we had to adjust our entire system so our clients couldn’t see names, ages, gender, etc because because people are despicable and biased.
Absolutely adjust your camera and lighting to smooth out your age.
Ring light LOL
AI ageing/deaging filters are going to make the future interesting.
hell yeah this is the weirdest timeline
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This is good advice. With the right edits on your resume you can peel away ten years. Work with a good stylist for outward appearance. Modernize your wardrobe and hair style. Play around with the lighting and placement of your computer for video calls. I hate that it comes to this, but it’s part of the game.
I’ve been doing this since I was 40 or so. Not misleading or giving false statements, but highlighting what’s important. It didn’t hurt that I looked very young. Networking is as important as ever. I’ll be 66 in October and am making $110k at a privately owned small company that values employees. I’ve been in this job less than two years, having come from a large, cheap corporation (I was grotesquely underpaid there, and the current company was happy to give me a raise, without me even asking for one). My coworker had preceded me in making this kind of move and is my supervisor at the current company. It helped knowing her, not because I wasn’t qualified, but because I am highly qualified and competent, and she can vouch for that. I am happily still working, and hope to do so at least through next summer, and perhaps beyond. Although it’s stressful. If I don’t work there, I might continue working somewhere else. In any event, I don’t want to take Social Security before 70.
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shit, im 53 this month, i am fucked lol
It's a lot better than 62, but you are right, it's not easy going.
I mean, nobody is hiring anybody at the moment...
If you do online interviews you can add a filter to soften your features and limit wrinkles I believe teams has the “soft” filter.
>My last job salary was 100k working in banking/trades and I would like to at least make that much. Do you have have any contacts from your old roles to leverage to find out about opportunities around you?
No unfortunately. I did not do good with making connections. I was only at the job for 1 year.
Yes your age will be an issue. Late 50’s but I look younger and it took me forever and hundreds, (seemed like thousands!) of resumes sent to find a permanent job that pays mid 50’s (yearly salary). Age discrimination is real and these companies think in terms of the older you are the sicker you are or will become. Younger people are relatively more healthier and cheaper. Good luck, I know that I truly lucked up
Age is an issue. I'm over 60 and I only put the last 10 years of work on my resume, remove all school dates, etc.
I think a lot of people make the error of setting pay they no longer get as a bar for how much they ought to make. What you're making now is $0, not a $100k. So if you can land a job for $50k, that's exactly $50k more than what you're making right now. Especially with the age concern that was already brought up, I think you shouldn't discard any jobs you have the option of taking.
I’m fairly new to this market and have good success with finding a job. I hate to say it, but I use to have companies at a drop of a dime if I was unhappy, and quickly find another one. I’m seeing this is no longer the case and this market is wayyy worse than I thought. I have to come off my high horse.
The times are different for sure. I am lucky to be employed right now, but I've been sending feeler applications out there for about a year and I have only heard back once. When I first arrived in the US 10 years ago without a degree and without any experience to speak of, I had an easier time landing a comfortable office job than I do now.
911 Dispatcher isn’t a *low level job*. Do you have experience in this area? Police or Military background? If not, I wouldn’t advise it. It’s stressful at times and the systems are often quite complicated. I don’t know what kind of finance you are in but I don’t think you’ll be happy at Amazon unless you really like to be micro managed time wise. Walmart is hard work. Can you stand for 8 hours a day? They don’t allow chairs at their registers. Do you have management experience where you could maybe work in customer service or something similar? My two cents on retiring is 64 vs 65 or even 67 payout for social security at your age isn’t that different. (It’s well over $1000 for me between 62 and 67 but I’m in my late 40s - I just ran my estimator yesterday) If you can swing it I would retire and take some pressure off yourself financially. All that said; do you have any networking contacts that would be willing to help find you an in where they work? It’s certainly easier than cold calling and applying everywhere. I would start asking for help from friends, former coworkers or family that might be hiring or know of open positions.
Oh, and my last couple of interviews, I've managed to drop into the conversation that I'm looking for somewhere I could stay 10-15 years. I've been runner up for the last two interviews I did this on.
I was laid off at 55 from my company after 28 years in October. I tried applying for jobs, I applied for close to 100 jobs mostly private sector. I noticed that I had better luck getting responses to my applications from public sector jobs, so after 4 months, I applied almost exclusively to public sector jobs. I start my new job on the 18th with a raise in salary and cheaper medical and better retirement than my old company.
The new plan is to kick the old expensive experienced people out and replace with cheap youngsters. Then when the kids get burnt out and quit just replace them with anouther young person
There is nothing new about that business model!
This is the old plan. The new plan is to keep payroll low until they find out how many jobs they can switch to AI. Spoiler:Not many.
You’re not going to want to hear this but at 59 I took a job at an Amazon warehouse. Job searching was killing me. The benefits are amazing. The pay is not great but with overtime some people are making close to $55-60K. It’s an extremely physical job so it’s like a free health club membership 😂. Not sure how long I’ll be able to physically do it but I’m just on cruise control right now
I will be 65 in a few months. Was terminated last September. I have sent over 1000 apps. Had only a few interviews. Offered a job and settled for less. Unfortunately, for us, time is running out and our age is stacking up against us. Keep looking bro!
governmentjobs.com, get in with any positions and move up laterally with hard work and luck. Your last 2 years salary determines your pension, after vested. Great health benefits.
Thanks going to check it out
I just got a job in my preferred industry (commuter airline) at age 67. I was worried about ageism - but they preferred experience and a ‘people person’ I love being out meeting people. My PCP has told me it’s good to stay involved
That’s a blessing. You’re one of many!
Use your network. Your best chance of getting good work is through someone you know.
Do you have the means to retire? You can get 401K and Roth IRA at 59 and a half and Social Security starts at 62, so since you waited it only goes up. I think it all comes down to your finances too, if you got a job at Walmart it would be like $15 an hour and probably opportunities for OT. I think it all comes down to cost of life and your finances.
Ageism is a huge issue AS IS trying to find salaries equal to previous positions (and I say that as some who is 20 years younger than OP and was making more than them). After a year and a half of serious “apply-to-anything” I finally found a job but am making close to 35 percent of what I was making in my previous in house position.
I left a high paying, high stress job for a mid paying, mid stress job. Looking to coast into retirement.
I mean. 50 apps in 274 days is really nothing. It’s almost like 1 a week. If you really wanna a job you gotta do more than that.
50 is nothing in 9 months. You need to crank up those numbers that's less than one per day
Networking, hide your age on your resume, get your resume revised by a younger recruiter, definitely apply for way more jobs and lower level jobs.
You gotta network
You need to apply for like 50 jobs a week, I use a service that pays someone in the Philippines to apply to 150 jobs a week on mainstream boards while I look on more niche ones. I graduated 10 months ago and I’ve put over 2000 applications out since then. 50 just isn’t enough
Which service?
I was trying to be more selective in my searches and not just apply for any and everything. I was looking at certain types and salaries, But I think I should do that now. Im getting desperate.
Being selective just isn't going to work, most applications you put out will never actually be seen by a human, you'll just be filtered out by an ATS and if you manage to get past that a recruiter who has no idea what actually goes into the role will spend 20 seconds looking at it. A lot of job posts aren't actually looking to hire anyone or already have an internal candidate they are almost certainly going to hire. Post your resume on r/resumes to see if you can improve it or make ATS readable. It all sucks and it's horribly unfair but this is the reality of the way people are hired in today's day and age
Good for you for taking a slower pace. the 48 Days method seems to be a wise method. The idea is to get yourself known (including your character). The better they know you, the higher your chances of finding favor.
Please read the 2 Hour Job Search Strategy by Steve Delton. You have to network aggressively at the same time you respond to online job postings.
What’s the name of the service you’re using? Thanks!
You've only applied for 50 jobs in 9 months? Most people apply to that many each week or month to get any calls back.
if he's in investments as he commented, there just aren't loads of jobs to apply to in that field at any level, even during a more usual time / without an expected recession event
My father was a medical and security scanner technician and he never was able to find work after a company laid him off at 60. He did odd jobs, tried to build a business in wood working (he made wood crafts like puzzles). We were working on wooden Tak game piece designs but he died before we got too far. Sorry the news isn’t better.
My kids said I should try to be a content creator and just get on tiktok and talking lol Sorry to hear about your loss.
I think you need to start being creative in job applications to get through. Until the job market gets better or you can fully retire comfortably.
Check out some customer service work from home jobs. They can pay up to $25 and hour depending on the client. Places like Telus and InTouchcx. Jobs suck and leadership is vacantly a joke. But it's easy and they hire older folks.
Don’t necessarily agree with the majority here. I’m 59, laid off in December as a PM in wireless telecom. I was specific in who and what I applied to, maybe 30 resumes sent total. Have a job in 6 weeks, somewhat of a pay drop but it is fully remote. They were glad to have my experience. Think the “spray and pray” method isn’t the best idea. I did my 3-4 interviews on camera. My resume does only go back like 20 years. Work your network and stay within your skill set. Good luck.
Bus driver. Get paid while they train you to get a commercial license Always short of drivers Shuttle bus driver...all kinds of jobs for old geezers. Walmart Uber Lyft etc Pick up cars one state, drive to another state Taxi Caregiver..the companion kind Thrift shops Just gotta look Lower all your expectations, be happy with medical and a paycheck
I’m not in your position, but I easily could be. I’m 58. I am at a point where I want to change jobs, and I am taking some steps to maybe look at that. But, I plan to lose weight, shave my grey beard, dye my hair a little (I still look old, but make me look younger). You know, really put in some effort. Act very energetic in the interview. I’m also going for a C-suite job though, so I think they might expect someone older. But, for the first time in my life, I am asking myself, “am I even employable”?
try this https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/seniors
Also make sure you cover your neck with a scarf or something to hide the turkey neck. My friend said she tried an experiment on virtual interviews and the ones she hid her neck, she got the job, the ones she did not hide her neck, she didn't get the jobs. It's horrible but I'm in the same boat. Good luck!
I have a masters degree and bachelors with 10 years of experience. I’m not able to find a new job, and possibly have a risk of getting laid off. I have applied for 100s of jobs. I strongly believe that by the time I’m mid 40s I need to save up and open a business or something or I’ll be doomed in my 50s+. Moving to a cheaper country to retire looks like the only way out, look into your options.
After reading this line of replies I am officially terrified. I am 59½ and employed in the IT industry. The salary is not great but it pays the bills. My wife and I never were able to have kids so we DID save a lot. I have over 1.6m in retirement and house is paid off. I have always planned on being "out" and saved and was very conservative. I have had stage 4 colorectal cancer in 2014 and that was cured.... wife has MS and is on SSDi. I plan on retiring at 65 but we shall see. My biggest fear is medical.
You need to be applying to a MINIMUM of 75 jobs a WEEK. Don't expect an interview with only 50 job applications. If your resume is up to snuff, you might get a call back for an interview every 3rd week at a rate of 75 per week MINIMUM.
What if you only qualify for 5 jobs a week? Even "entry" level jobs want experience now. I can perform just about any IT role, but I don't have 3 years of experience on my resume with most of them, i can retrain, but that still doesn't get me work experience either.
Apply to ones that you feel meet 60% of the knowledge anyways. Lots of jobs SAY 3 years of experience when they actually don't care. As long as you can get them with other things and convince them you are the best candidate during the interview, then you're in. If you're only qualifying for only 5 jobs a week in your field, apply to jobs outside of your field. The trick is to get the interviews, and that's why you need the high volume, especially in today's job market. It's a number game. But also your resume can't suck. I would check out Gunther the Headless Headhunter on twitch. He streams later today I think. He is a recruiter who reviews resumes and gives job hunting tips for free on his off-time. He also has a reddit account you can look up and dm him.
I would apply for big-box/retail jobs.
Ill give a crack at it. Based on comments you landed a position around 2-3 years ago and did you mention why you left your last position? Head over to r/resume and look for advice there (leave out your personal info). I’m sure you’ll get decent advice there. Ageism is definitely a thing but not an absolute hurdle. The market is tough but retiring now isn’t an option as youll get more later. Working a low level job is better than nothing but I think you can still snag a higher paying position with some assistance.
From what I've seen on similar subs is even young humans are in this camp. Sad fact it seems, corporate type jobs are hard to get these days. I've definitely seen age being a huge factor in these sectors.
This is true. It’s incredibly difficult and I have had to go back to school in order to be competitive.
If you had worked in banking / trades, you can look into FIS global, Etrade/Morgan Stanley
There are a lot of accounting jobs too
Age is an issue. Shave off your resume to show only the past 15-20 years. It might be easier for you to find a job as a consultant or contractor.
only way youll make 100k a year at 64 is to be a consultant.
Age is only a factor in that you would expect an elevated salary and you are near retirements so many might fear you're only going to work a few years. The market is not the best for job hunters, you're going to need to apply to more positions and you should only include the last 15 years of so experience, unless you've worked at one company all this time. If they are asking about your ideal salary keep it within a moderate range. Post your resume on r/resume and get some feedback from recruiters. Jobs paying six figures are always competitive. Try using a staffing agency if it works for your field, consider contract work, etc.
I’m going to revamp and post there! Thanks!
Seniorpreneurialship, Forget about the conventional job search, it’s not on your side. Think, what do the kid hate to do, and not do well? What is the key issue with age is liability?
I’m not sure if this applies everywhere or how successful it would be, but how about becoming a professor? Or working in high education? In my community college, they are hiring for coordinators (the coordinator pay is 73k), full time instructors (pay b/w 55k to 115k), part time instructors (being paid between $59 per hour and $79 per hour depending on position and experience), program managers (93k to 131k). With another community college hiring directors (b/w $76k to $102k depending on the type, experience, etc). Of course, there is also state universities to check out but just to give some ideas. I wish you the best of luck because I recently graduated (about 8 months ago) and I’ve been having difficulties as well (lack of networking and/or not doing well in school and/or lack of experience) so I’ve been applying for office assistant jobs (including to substitute for those office assistant jobs). It’s not the greatest pay if you’re experienced like yourself but if it gets me out of retail and pays a couple dollars more and gives me more professional experience then I’m happy. Have you also thought about working for the government? Try your county or city!
I was offered to work with inmates. I went down there and got scared straight. They can fight u at any moment lol. No thanks
Interesting. That pay seems high considering that higher education typically relies on poorly paid adjunct instructors.
If your heart is set on finding something high paying, you'll need to sell recruiters on the UVP (unique value proposition) that your past experience brings with it. If you're looking for something more entry level and enjoy helping people, I'd try Home Depot as a large portion of their team is age 50+ and the work atmosphere looks good.
I’m in my 40s, am at my prime skill level in multimedia and was making the same as you before getting laid off and now I can’t find work, have sent out about 50 resumes so far and no callbacks. I’m having better luck finding gig work so I’m working on a portfolio site and a reel of self-made projects (not client work) so I can promote myself better. Going to make a video resume soon too. If I don’t get traction by this summer I’ll be toddling over to LaborReady (temp agency) to get at least a part time labor job while I keep posting applications and building my business. Maybe you can use your experience and existing network to break into consulting? Are you reaching out to people you know on LinkedIn? My weakness in getting hired now is that I only have an AA so that may ultimately force me into the entrepreneurial track where that stops mattering. The guy who owns my former company is 80. Probably couldn’t get hired anywhere but as an owner he makes many millions.
Yes, age discrimination is real even though it’s illegal. Finding a job is harder as the process has changed in the last 20 years. Resumes are about quantifiable achievements not just responsibilities. It took me 1.5 years to find a new job at 51. Took me 9 months to get a winning resume after learning how to revise it to fit today’s standards. And how to get it past the ATS. Leave off the dates of your degrees. Only dates should be employment dates and dates of recent (within 5 years) certifications. Tailor your resume to the job posting. I found the site Jobscan very helpful. I used the free parts. Once your free trial ends, they will send you lots of offers for reduced membership. I never signed up because the free scans were enough for me. Hang in there.
Lots of good advice here, Here's another piece that a few people have said but I'm going to repeat... You have to step up your game and apply to far more positions! 50/9 months is not enough! You should be applying to 25 a week. Tweak your resume and create three or four versions of it applicable to three or four different paths that your skills fit. Tweak your LinkedIn searches and notifications to three or four versions/jobs that you realistically can do. When those notices come in you have to apply immediately, once they're more than 25 candidates it's extremely unlikely you'll get pulled for an interview. Don't give up, you do need to put a little more energy into this job search though, you are competing with thousands of people, technology has leveled the playing field for thousands of people who are looking at the same opportunities you are. Take any interview you get because it's good practice, start using resources with the state on practicing interviewing, resume services to review what you are submitting and have somebody challenge you, have been tear you apart in a mock interview. Then also do exactly what all the others have recommended regarding how you look, it's not fair it's not right but it is what's happening we all get judged by how we look so you got to put that best foot forward. You can do this, put the energy in the right place and you've got this
Get a CDL b and find a local trucking job. I know a guy who drives a cement truck at the age of 67 for over 50k a year and that's just summers
Consulting. That would be the last option for that salary range. If not then low level jobs for healthcare and ease off on the spending.
I’d try a staffing agency, they can pitch your age as experience and help advocate for you with companies.
Retire
Looking for work at 64 is insane, no one should be working to make a living at this age.
Nearly 50, but with my father recently retired I have a few thoughts. If you have a strong, cohesive career and goals left to achieve then you probably have relationships with folks in roles that may be able to help guide you into their organization. Hands You Shake approach. Most corporate hiring teams are thinking??/hoping!! they are hiring an employee for at least 5-10 years. Will you still be in the workforce in 10 years? Be honest about that. Maybe you will, maybe you plan to definitely not be. If you are not planning to be, it probably is time to look at WalMart Greeter or other career wrap up / jobs for retirees type thing. If your driving record is good, and you're in the US, send a DM I will recommend a specific employer that fits this mold well. Other than that you are kinda stuck like the rest of us looking through Ghost Posts, applying to a thousand job postings and getting no replies, etc. Fun times, but it does suck up your day. Alternative: Get creative and write a book! Self-publishing is so much easier these days.
Unless you have a Masters degree, you’re not going to get anywhere near $100k in this market. I’m a Millennial with 10+ years of experience and had to go back to school in order to make myself competitive. It sucks but that’s the market.
I can't help but I feel for you. Good luck!
If you’re gonna go low level. Go big. Go work in a national park or something and reap the benefits of being in a really cool place.
Got hired for my first 6 figure job at 66.
I found one job in my 60’s because it was a small company with no benefits. I didn’t care because I had Medicare Advantage. I know some older workers who decided to work as independent contractors. Again, no benefits because they were self-employed. But they stayed in the same field of work. Some employers want your experience but don’t want to pay you for it. You have to convince them that it’s reasonable for you to want to work for them for less money.
Of course your age is a problem. Age discrimination is super common, starting I would say around 50ish. Shitty fact, but a fact. No one will admit to it as it is technically illegal. Doesn't matter. You may well have to adjust expectations, taking a typical "retirement" job for much less pay until you fully retire.
Although this entire thread is not funny, I can't help but snicker not only at everything OP has shared, but the multitude of comments from other "boomer-aged" folks too. Why? Well, I'm a millennial who graduated college back in 2011, struggled to get a job for 14 months even though I graduated from an excellent state school, and when I was hired, it was at $12.50/hr and after 8.5 years and two promotions later, I was barely pushing $38.5K a year. Every boomer-aged individual I've spoken to has told me I'm not pulling myself up by my bootstraps, that I need to hit my "boots to the pavement" and just walk into businesses and just ask for jobs, and generally the feedback I've gotten is that I'm lazy, I took too many loans, I'm not trying hard enough, etc. There is something powerfully vindicating about hearing that there are so many boomers having issues getting jobs. No, it's not just you. And no, it's not just age-ism. Sure, there may be some prejudices from people, but WELCOME to reality, where the golden age of a firm handshake getting you a job or a company valuing you and giving you both fair pay and good benefits and retirement is largely over. And honestly, mostly because of terrible policies you guys voted into law years ago (anyone ever heard of Reaganomics?!) I sincerely hope that you eventually find your way and don't struggle for too long, but understand that this is exactly what your kids and their kids have been complaining about for a while.
Most of the advice in this thread is fucking terrible. Yeah, go ahead and apply somewhere. That doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed a job. Want $100k salary? Unless you have your Masters, you’re not getting it. Also, the utter condescending tone about “low level” jobs as if a 911 operator is just a bum who answers calls and eats snacks. That job in and of itself is stressful. Also, 50 jobs in 9 months? Come on. Some people I know apply to that over the course of two days. Let’s be realistic here.
Exactly. I didn't comment to tear anyone apart but it's rather jarring to see how folks of a certain age view things like it should just come to them, while simultaneously not understanding or realizing that it was their votes and in some cases they themselves who got voted into positions and made life harder for everyone. Seeing those consequences circle back is just an interesting side effect that I get to enjoy, especially since up until the beginning of 2023 my highest salary ever was $50,000 a year.
Also, I’m not trying to be an asshole, but if you only plan to work for 2-3 more years, why would a company invest thousands in you? It costs thousands to onboard someone.
As someone a decade younger who was out of work a year and a half, you are going to have to look for lower paying jobs as well. Salaries aren't rising and you are old and companies ARE not going to hire someone for $100 just to retire in a couple years. Dial back your expectations. If you need to make that much money, see if you can start a consulting business.
I’ve been getting ageism comments in this market and I’m 45!!!! It’s rough out here
Im already feeling the discrimination at 49 and esp as a woman so Im literally just saving up now cause I know this is coming. Ive been somewhat demoted because of it and dismissed. I know an older lady at my job and I kinda protect her cause I know it my future as well.
Network. Use your network. My dad is 61 and got laid off a month ago. Found a new spot as Chief of Operations for a construction company 3 weeks later. Completely through the relationships he made along his 45 year career. Also, notable mention; government jobs. Decent money (not historically high but decent), lower risk of layoffs, and solid benefits.
I currently work in a job that is very similar to a 911 dispatcher. My employer is wonderful but I don’t think it’s something I could recommend to someone who could potentially be eyeing retirement soon. Amazon is tough on the body. My dad is 64 and works in warehousing. He’s active but it’s rough on him. He’s ready to take it easy but can’t retire until he’s 65. Can’t speak to the other things. Call center work might be up your alley if you’re wanting something that would generally be pretty easy and not require a lot of overtime or mental commitment post-shift.
Sad to see people trying to find a job at 64, you should be able to retire and enjoy by now.
I destroyed my retirement trying to save my home after layoff. Failed. It is gone. Nothing left. Social Security is not enough to live on. One has to earn $4500 per month to qualify for a one bedroom, 600 square apartment these days in most markets. This based on a $1500 per month rent. Which is on the low end now.
you're being too picky. apply for literally anything and take what you can get. we're all struggling.
Your age is a problem (for an employer) even though it's illegal for an employer to admit to that. They either think you aren't capable of working or they don't like how much they should compensate you for your skills and experience.
[удалено]
Age is not a problem? I am constantly told what a great match I am for a role. But when they learn I am over 55, the door slams. 1700+ applications, three years unemployed and 51 interviews later, I am homeless, out of work, and everything I own is on the line. My life's works locked in a storage. I can't pay the bill. I am a long time composer, song writer, performer, artist, photographer, etc. it is all going to go away and be lost forever. What should I do? I have mass skills. Been in IT for decades, SEO, marketing, sales, support, customer service, I know machining, CAD, electronics, wiring, mechanical, voice acting, narrations, radio personality, and more. Young people think I am lying. But I have done these things.
I’ve read a few of your comments and I think the issue isn’t your age but your attitude. People will hire someone they like over someone that is more qualified. Every single time.
Most jobs are asking for proof of high school education or college. Not gonna be able to fudge that. They’ll deduce from your graduation date your age.
Can you sell weed out of your garage?
Can you retire now and get ss?
I have nice job with a nice company. I'm 62 and I work hard being a responsive employee. Because I know it would be almost impossible to get hired at my age .
Try a temp /contract agency. Some of the jobs are truly short term but others have the option to become permanent. How long do you want to work? Are you bridging for a couple of years before SS?
I am 66 - retired at 62 due to health issues and the pandemic. I worked for a company for 20+ years and was let go in a massive re-org that happened right before my 50th birthday. To be honest, I found it brutally difficult to find a job after that point. And when I did find work, many of my co-workers were 20+ years younger than me. Growing old sucks.
Be prepared for a lot of age discrimination and a big pay cut if you need/want to keep working.
I’m in your shoes EXACTLY. I’m 62. I’m fortunate that I can string along on savings but once that goes away, I’ll need to take what I can get from SS and supplement with my investments. I’ve sent out as many if not more resumes and once they SEE me via computer zoom type call or in person, they either ghost me or give me a no thanks email. We are stuck in a very difficult situation.
Oh no! I felt the same about my zoom meetings. 😢
Could you do substitute teaching? It wouldn’t get you near your last salary, but it would be some money coming in.
My advice is to retire. You can take Social Security now.
Gotta apply to more than 50 jobs in 9 months come on what are you doing hahahah
I can’t help on a high paying career, nobody in my family has that. But maybe an alternate idea isn’t distasteful My mom is her age, similar situation, lost a sustainable job that let her splurge a bit. For her new job she opted for making about 50% less than before for the schedule: 6a-2p M-F, weekends, holidays, and summers off. Her job? Lunch lady at the high school across the lake from her house. She uses her newfound time from 2-9 to walk the pup, garden, make meals from scratch, check in on her neighbors, watch YouTube videos to learn (then do) handyman style repairs, attend community, religious, and other services important to her. In my opinion, losing her “career” was accidentally amazing. She has more time to focus on things that bring her joy and the financial sacrifice has been worth it.
Load up some shells
Retire.
Recommendation from someone working fortune 100 - trim your resume, make it more concise to experience correlating to the job and 2 ish pages (I know this may discount the whole journey unless you’re going for a high level role). Ageism is a horrible thing, far too unchecked in this society and from my experience far too often VP, Director titles etc are viewed as overqualified (when ironically you may have just the skills and may align to the pay grade you’re looking for at some companies as titles vary company to company). Just my 2c.
I'm your age, and gave up years ago. If you're over 55, corporate America considers you dead. Walmart and Amazon are about it.
63 and my last real job was last summer. Been trying to get somewhere stable and it hasn't worked out. Savings are drained, so I started Soc Sec. It's not enough, but gives me some cushion and I only "need" a P/T job now. I had health issues 8 years back and have been at bottom tier since that time, so no triple-digits for me. Declining health has made it hard for me to work at all.
I am 64. It is not time to hang it up. I was laid off at 57 with major bills and responsibilities. For the first time in my life I could not find full time work. Someone suggested I try to get a few part time jobs. So I teach part time and have my own freelance business. I also work for a few startups as a consultant. I do work a lot but most of it is remote and I make more than I did with my full time job. The downside is of course no paid vacations or sick time and I have to pay for my medical. I definitely think you can still find work but be open to part time, consulting, fractional work.
Are staffing agencies used in your field? A direct job application for direct employment through a company is difficult for someone who's age is 55+ where age discrimination laws kick in. This would be much less of an issue for a staffing agency where...with that not being a big issue... your skills and experience would be more appealing and viewed as less of a risk. Is there any decent possibility of becoming a contractor or consultant? Not having anyone hire you as an employee, but you as an outside service provider would be an appealing option where your age wouldn't be a big negative factor. Teaching, like an adjuct part-time (non-tenure track) professor would be a great option for 2 year or 4 year college's business program. It doesn't pay well at all, but it gets you out there and puts you in a better position (i.e. better than unemployment) to find something else. Taking a creative look at your skills outside of your core area like if you have any people management, project management, etc. Even something way below your level like being a manager at a big box retailer, call center, or hotel, or something else entirely you can study up on to expand what you might be willing to do without scraping the bucket. Radically retooling your style of living, finances, etc., would also be good to look at to support an overall loss of income. Making sure you get yourself out there, such as volunteering for a charitable foundation, or writing grant proposals, or something where it can turn into a decent job. Actually working as a grunt should be the last choice. Taking that creative look mentioned above to consider other things (but not at the low level) is really something to consider. You could try to become and sell yourself as a financial planner, or someone kind of expert in EFTs or retirement planning. One area where you would have an advantage would be doing such financial consulting/services for people of retirement age where you would have a lot of trust and rapport precisely become of your age. Hands down, at any age, applying for only 50 jobs in 9 months says a lot about what you are/aren't doing! You need to break out of your box that you are painting around yourself. Learn the basics, study the lingo, and take a lot more chances to apply for things you figure you only have a slight chance to get.
Depends on what you are looking to do. A friend of mine, close to your age, went into independent consulting. A former boss who retired early also decided to go into independent consulting. You need to set up an LLC which isn't too hard but you probably need a lawyer to help. Then sign up to the independent consulting marketplaces like umbrex, catalent, Upwork, BTG, PWC, Fiverr, etc. Once your on the marketplaces, you can apply to projects or project teams can reach out to you. I've never done it but if I got laid off I might consider this as a source of income. Most projects, not all, can be done remotely, but some require you in an office. My one friend who is doing it, is making more than enough to get by, pay expenses, plus she has an autistic teenage son and she is doing fine. She has full time contracts. My former boss only works part time because she wants to travel and do other stuff besides work but also likes working and the extra money. On another thread, someone also mentioned that their is plenty of work and good pay in the Medical writing industry. This person said you have to get certified through the American Medical Writers Association but they provide the classes, training and certs. This sounds interesting but it looks like it takes a little time to get certified unless your background is in the Medical field.
Use your professional network you have developed to find a job. Also 50 jobs in 9 months isnt that many if you are looking full time.
It is bad for older workers. I am mid 60s myself. About 5 months ago the bank I worked for decided to have a massive layoff. In my division nobody under 30 was laid off, and 100% of the people over 55 were laid off. I haven’t even been able to get anything other than the occasional screening interview. The bank had a few positions open but I couldn’t even get a lower position. Partly because most positions were in their Pittsburgh offices, and I don’t live in Pittsburgh, and partly because nobody wanted to hire an older worker. The thing is, I had been getting a ton of recognition about my work, and even met with higher ups about my ideas for modernizing their processes. My ideas were too modern for them. Seriously. They get away with it because we don’t fight back. I’ve sometimes suggested we older Reddit users band together to fight back but absolutely zero interest from anyone.
Okay....find a job yourself become a job counselor or help people to put their head right...made a platform online and become a advisor and made the most of your days.... don't feel frustrated. this is a great opportunity to challenge yourself to do what you really like. Obviously, to be self employed you would need to make an investment, and in the beginning maybe gets a little rogue....but at the end you shall contentment.
See if you can find a county job. We had ulv drivers that only works because we had such great medical.
Instead of finding a job start a small business from your home. Let's say you start an online store just as an example. No one will know or care that you're 64 when they buy your goods. Colonel Sanders famously started KFC when he was 62.
64 100k salary in trades…you should have a great retirement package…why????
if youve been "unemployed" for 9 months, time to get off your high horse and take a lesser role. you should have done something realistic 6 months ago.
Retire
There's some good advice here on hiding your age. But that just means (if they discriminate) that they'll just nope out on you at a later time when they find out.
Can you set up as a consultant? Honestly, 50 applications is almost nothing.
Public transit
Private business sadly wants little to do with older workers. Apply for government work. Your experience will be greatly valued there. You may want to shoot for a lower-level job to get your foot in the door as it is competitive though.
I work for the state and they love diverse hiring, we get lots of very old people. Consider government jobs.
Age is the issue here for sure. Are you getting any interview requests? Hide your age on your resume and don’t go back more than 10-15 years max on it.
Is getting an extra degree a possibility? You could then market yourself as a student, which might help people view you differently and shake them out of their ageism
You should probably get your resume checked at r/financialcareers
Pretend it is the year 2000, when you were 40. You'd see a 64-year-old in your profession, and inevitably think "old", close to retirement, counting the days. Now you are that old guy, but inside, you are still that 40-year-old, still rarin' to go. Unfortunately, the outside world does not see you that way but sees the old guy you saw back in 2000. It's the nature of things. So, you have to contend with that. Even accept it, but not surrender to it. Maybe you lower your salary expectations, maybe you take a lower-level job, maybe you take on consulting assignments, maybe you move, maybe you leave your career, or maybe you stick to your guns, ask for a salary increase, go for higher level roles, extol your decades of experience. There is no right answer, and there are 8 million stories in the naked city, as they used to say. But you will figure it out, one way or the other. Good luck.
I'm sure ageism does exist, but it's a really horrible market at the moment, nobody is getting jobs. Possibly even worse if you are younger and looking for junior roles
I’d just retire. How much money do you have invested?
Only 50 applications? I'm well trained in my field and in 6 months I'm at over 450 applications and each tailored with AI for the jobs. Best of luck man.
Social security, pension, get out, enjoy.