Many of my friends are already in thier late 30s or early 40s still not able to get a stable job?

Question

2 of my buddies(both age early 40s)got retrenched 3-4 months ago.They all hv kids and families.What was so appalling is that when they replied an ad inthe papers for a job.All 17 companies hvhad either said a)they were too old for the job ,b)we will call u if u r selected.c)sorry the post has been taken once my friend relvealed his age.Base on the posts and job they went for interviewed they were not choosy at all.Are we the sort that we can be taxi drivers once we are over 40?

Answer 1

Unfortunately that is a problem and only worsening. Even though older employees have so much experience to offer, they have a hard time getting a job. And even though it is illegal in both Canada and the U.S. to ask age ... most people reflect their age in their appearance ... even if some age better than others ... No one is going to think a 50 year old is really 30, and in most cases appearance reflects age within 5 years of actual age.

My hubby was in need of finding a job at the age of 58 ... he looked ten years younger ... but it took him nearly a year to find a job, and then it was in security making $10 an hour (min wage here is $8), scarcely enough to afford an apt. and living expenses.

It's a shame, but sadly, the way it is.
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Answer 2

This is perfect example why people should never get out of the habit of taking classes at their local college. They can keep up with all the latest trends and be prepared for a career change.

My husband takes update classes all the time, and his company pays for the classes. It just takes a few hours a week, and is well worth the time.

At his office, young workers come and go all the time, but he has been with the company through three new owners, and uncountable co-workers. He continues to receive regular salary increases, and even his boss ask him their work question.

Answer 3

Nowadays employers tends to go for young graduate who don't demand high pay and are more energetic than those who are in their late 30s and 40s. Even you want to be a taxi driver, you must get the vocation licence first. I think the employer must change their mindset first in recruiting older employee as they may have some experience where the fresh graduate doen't have.

Answer 4

I noticed that nothing was said about tradesmen (ladies). I am in my mid 60's, retired, and still have people knocking on my door asking me to come to their home or place of business to repair something refrigerated or solve some electrical problem. I could go get a "regular" job if I wanted one. I have had contractors ask me if I wanted steady work.I will admit that 40 seems old to start retraining but it might be worth consideration.

Answer 5

40 isn't so old but the problem is growing. At 55 you are lucky to even find minimum wage even if you have years of education and experience! I go to interviews and all I see is the other side of the door on the way out.

Answer 6

Well in the US you don't have to tell your age, just that you are over 16. If prospective employers are asking the applicants' age, they are breaking the law.

Answer 7

Stable jobs died under the Reagan presidency, when he started breaking Unions.

Answer 8

does your friend have a past record, if i may ask?
because this can surely affect the future of any employment..
if not, is it a pride issue? if not either....then someone is pulling your brain...there are many jobs out there....just gotta want to work...and be willing to start from "somewhere" and "grow from there"...