...Too Old??

Question

Is there any company who will hire a 65 year old? Is it considered too old? Unemployable?? Or just afraid that retirement will come in first? I'm looking to work into my 70's (Lord willing) and am willing and anxious to make a career move... I understand that I will start at the bottom, but I'm not discouraged by that... I'm just looking to open a new chapter in my life without becoming a sit at home and knit retiree!  Any suggestions??

Marjorie Abdelkrime · Answer

No such thing, if you are looking for a corporate role there are many jobs out there, I'd suggest considering a returnship. https://bit.ly/2KhSn92 there are roles that companies are dedicating to a talent pool that is untapped right now. A lot of returnships tend to focus on returning mothers, but I have seen also new careers for later in life as well.

Madeline Schwarz · Answer

Don't assume you're going to start at the bottom. It's devaluing your rich life experience. If you approach your search with the mindset that 65 years of experience is an asset, it will be easier to find the companies that agree.

Anonymous · Answer

If companies were all smart enough to realize diverse backgrounds lead to more engaged and successful companies this wouldn't be an issue. Sadly that's not the case, however there are some companies who would love to have someone who's smart and willing to work hard/make an impact despite their age. Some things to think about would be:

- what do you want to do? what are you good at? where was your experience? Then how do some of those skills transfer to a new career path.
- Make sure your resume and/or LinkedIn profile focuses on expertise (LinkedIn is pretty important these days). I'd also hide some evidence of age if possible (again, sad that we have to do this but it can help get your foot in the door)
- And maybe have conversations with people online about what you want to do, networking, etc.

It may not be easy but finding the right company and right people can make that happen! I worked for a place which didn't care about age and looked for impact instead and we even hired a few semi-retirees who were looking more for a lifestyle job - where they could help out in their areas of expertise. Good luck!

Kristina (K.C.) Gott (she/her) · Answer

Hi Leslie - I appreciate this question so much. The idea that someone is 'unemployable' at 65 seems ridiculous, particularly when we look around at some who are turning it up a notch in their 70s. For example, Dolly Parton just finished up and is promoting 3(!) new projects.

I am currently working a seasonal job and have spent a great deal of this year doing temporary and gig work (delivery food, grocery shopping, and dog walking). I'm also learning new and improving my current tech skills. I'll be 49 this week and, while I've been working as a college teacher for most of the last 12 years, I have no desire to continue doing that work.

When I advised college students, I would suggest volunteerism as a way to explore options. But, your experience is your greatest asset. I would encourage you to consider working with temporary agencies and/or looking into opportunities to freelance. I don't know what your former work background is - you might consider consulting work. Whatever you find, I'm wishing you the very best of luck in finding the work that satisfies you!

Estar Upia · Answer

Leslie, this is all great advice, and I just want to offer encouragement. Yes, I'm sure you can find a great job, and in fact, they may be thrilled to hire you! It's even admirable that you want to continue working and growing, and why not? I'm sure you have a lot to offer and sounds like you have the willingness to learn. I would just say, when you interview, don't focus on your age or even try to discuss it. Don't view it as a barrier.  And know which questions are illegal to ask before you meet with any company. Look your best, be enthusiastic, and go for it.

Anonymous · Answer

Depending on where you live, many grocery stores will hire you as a cashier, and many have upward trajectories from there. Wal-Mart also - and not just as a greeter. The advice on volunteering is exceptional, a great way to get hired on somewhere you know and enjoy working. If you like people, many pharmacies are seeking to hire trustworthy help. There are a lot of opportunities, you need only focus on your target company/job and connect with someone there.
I'd also suggest you get into Career Connections - a job search program run through many churches - good advice, resume and search assistance, etc.

Katrina McNair · Answer

Hello Leslie,

You are not to old to get a job.  I would look into volunteering jobs that in your area online and see if these non paying jobs could eventually turn into a paying job.  Sometimes they have this information included with the details of the position that you are volunteering for.  Also check with your local newspapers to see what type of job opportunities they have available for our experienced citizens.    I hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Katrina

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