What job search experiences has anyone age 50+ and who has been made redundant, had?

Question

Just wanted some tips on how others cope with job searches and the rejections when over 50 yrs old. Particularly those employers who say 'you are over qualified/too experienced' Just another way of saying too old? Age Discrimination law makes little difference!

Answer 1

YES i was made redundant at 53, i thought my world had crashed. I did find it very difficult to find work due to a definate age discrimination. I had many many "DOWN" days but kept plugging away (i was out exactly 1 year to the day) i finally found work, not exactly what i was used to but the new company trained me.. all is now fine..MY ADVICE ..keep your hopes up something will turn up GOOD LUCK.

Answer 2

My mother had this problem. After being laid off from her last job, she had a really hard time finding a new position. It was kind of a rude shock for her to discover that she now needed a bachelor's degree to do the job she'd been doing for the past 20 years. Also, I think a lot of companies realized how old she was and discounted her right away, opting to choose someone fresh out of college with no experience who they could pay much less. (I think the "overqualified/too experienced line is more about them not wanting to pay you what you are now worth.) Well, after months of banging her head against the wall, my mom decided to go back to school and get her degree and has come to the conclusion that maybe starting her own business is the way to go.

In any case, take another look at your resume and leave the oldest jobs off of it. (Listing jobs you had in the 70's is a dead giveaway.) Also, maybe try applying for jobs that are a little outside of your field of expertise, but that still use skills you have. That way they can't use the "too experienced" line on you because you'll be striking out to do something different.

Or you could also try looking into professions that are in really high demand right now, so they can't afford to discriminate. (For example, I live in New York City where there is a serious shortage of teachers and nurses.)

Anyway, good luck. I hope something pans out for you.

Answer 3

My father had the same problem, but he was closer to 60 at the time he was made redundant. He didn't want to do what he has been doing all his life, but went back to that field in the end. He became quite depressed while he was unemployed. On a more positive note, even though he hates his job, he is alot more happier working than not. It definately gives him some sense of self worth. Just apply for everything, my dad ended up doing a few jobs that he never thought he would do. Good luck with the job hunt - just stay positive, as you will eventually find something.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

never had that problem i word my letter of application in a way that shows my age is just a number using upto date phrases to prove i am up to speed for the position ,and have never failed to be offered the job although i have not always accepted.i leave my date of birth off my cv and then can sell myself at interview.

Answer 6

This may not suit you, but I know B & Q like to employ older people & they give good training. (I'm assuming you are in England)