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I got laid off in June 2024. I have not been able to find employment ever since.

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Anonymous

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I got laid off in June 2024. I have not been able to find employment ever since.

This is the longest I have ever been out of work. I know it’s not me because I am doing everything in my power to apply to every single job posting that matches my experience and I have even achieved a couple of certifications along the way.

I have also leveraged my network, squeezing every person I know.

Is anyone else having a hard time finding work? Does anyone know why? Is it the economy? Is it politics? Is it my age? (I have over 15 years of experience).

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  1. Anonymous

    ,Also I would like to add: I have not gotten passed first or second round interviews. I believe that my sector (tech) is being heavily outsourced to India and South America. I made it to the third round of one position but didn’t end up getting it.

  2. Dawn McDonnell

    Advice, Do not give up. Every age is having hard times, All kinds of professions, MBA’s newly graduated, experienced.

    Turn every Rock, get every contsct, network , surf linked in , consult on the side, revitalize several resumes, create a website for yourself. Get creative, get out there, use your tube, linked in , Pinterest, anything and all things to get noticed. Redue your resume creating a few different styles and be flexible in the types of jobs - even taking less money in something you want to move up, work weekends . The labor market stats are not getting better for 2024/25 . They lie the numbers so there is a lag affect . The highest number of job growth was Govt under Biden - lost jobs in private sector is high. Hustle , did I say hustle . Focus get your stuff out with the mentality people give up. And you will last.
    “ Think” who do I know. Who can help me? Do I have ANY connections
    Go on job interviews you don’t necessarily want for practice . The crazy thing is those jobs you don’t want often you get . Y? Your defenses are down , your confidence is up cuz you present as you don’t give a ***
    Know it’s phone interviews maybe 2,or more
    then Zoom interviews , possibly 2 , than your lucky if face to face. & then a wait n see . It’s a long process . Any jobs you’re interested in jump on before they close.- competition is global. Be willing to travel & move or remote.
    keep in your mind your looking at 200- 300 resumes out so you have a back log comin at you for next year. Remember the longer you try the longer you get used to this the better you will be BECAUSE MOST people GIVE up it’s too rejejectsble. Everyone is getting rejected so don’t listen to anyone. Just keep going & get a side hustle.
    Send with every resume a creative well thought out , strategic cover letter.
    Get sleep, exercise, laughter , eat well . SAVE your money . GET seriously on a budget . Do not get sucked up to spending money over the Holidays. Get a sense of urgency
    You’re looking at 6 months to a year looking. Keep the momentum & look to get a weekend job. It’s serious *** out there for all folks no matter what age stage and educational background. Stay off the social media delusion and focus on yourself, your health, your fam and ; friends who love you.
    it’s a highly rejectable space . You will have lotsa bad days some good days hopeful days. DONOT give up if you do for a week a few days get back on track . You can have a pity party and get back on it. # 1 thing take care of your mind, and health with focus exercise , walk La , lift do , intense simple 45 second , sprinting , biking - Y? Increases dopamine.
    no meds, no drugs , no antidepressants little to no alcohol and yes a few pity parties.
    Be a warrior for yourself cuz it’s a battle. If this is a wake up call and scary it’s meant to be . Save.your money for taxes & unemployment taxes. .tGetttttter going. If you have someone to support you in this journey than you are blessed - less stress ! Good luck my friend. .

  3. Melissa Chaffin

    2nd the "Get sleep, exercise..." mentioned. Helps my mood and stamina tremendously!

  4. Anonymous

    I agree. Consider taking what you can get comment. Consider all jobs. Ya'll, I've been through this back when the market crashed in 2008. Maybe seems forever ago, but it was JUST like it is today. Took me a year and half, losing my home, lived off unemployment, BUT I survived. Yes, have a pity party BUT remember, each day is a new day and each day holds new hope. I live by that. When my current role opened, so yeah I've been in it since 2011, I took it. Salary was half of what I was used to. But I was SO grateful for something coming in. The bills were the same, I eeked by but you know what I got through it. Lean on others, ask for help, use free services at your local library, know where the discount shelves are in the grocery store, shop at second hand stores, borrow clothes for interviews if you have to. I had to borrow work clothes when I started but you know what, it all will be in your rearview mirror one day like it is in mine. I now work with employers to hire students and there ARE jobs. Like early talent, you may have to take a lesser paying job, and though it sucks, it's not bad when you're given insurance and benefits. That is priceless! Use RX cards at the pharmacy. I have tons of tricks up my sleeve and still use this method to stay within budget.

  5. Anonymous

    Yes!! I am willing to do anything! I just want a paycheck and go to work!

  6. Anonymous

    Exactly! Now is definitely not the time to be picky about income!

  7. Anonymous

    "Go on job interviews you don’t necessarily want for practice. The crazy thing is those jobs you don’t want often you get."

    THIS IS SO TRUE!!!!

  8. Anonymous

    I really do believe it's the industry. I'm at the same experience level, and I've been searching since August. (I started lazily searching around April 2024, but really kicked it into high gear late July/early August.) Lots of automatic rejections - very few screening interviews, even fewer 2nd round interviews. One recruiter told me the current tech industry motto is "Survive Until '25". I think he's right. Last month I went through 3 rounds of interviews, and yesterday I was finally offered the position; however, I won't start until early January. Keep hope alive! You got this!!

  9. Anonymous

    What do they mean with “survive until 25”?

  10. Anonymous

    Survive Until 2025, when the job market will presumably get better.

  11. Anonymous

    I'm curious, what does Survive Until 25 mean? 25 years or age 25? That's so interesting as I was in tech as an IT recruiter, and haven't heard that one. Congrats to you too on your new job! Great success story! One by one I hope everyone here seeking finds their rightful place in the world to work!

  12. Anonymous

    Thank you so much! Survive Until 2025, when the job market will presumably get better.

  13. Lorraine Montalvo

    That is my exact same story! I am applying to at least 5 jobs daily and have all the qualifications for the roles. I have over 20 years of experience and am really beginning to believe that I am experiencing ageism. I was also wondering if i should remove some more experience since the dates are an indication to my age.

  14. Melissa Chaffin

    Lorraine et. al. I have limited my extensive experience - on my resume - to include only the last 15 years worth. The remaining data is still included on my LinkedIn profile so I can speak to it during interviews and tell interviewees if they need more info to review it there. My point is I too think I've experienced some ageism in my search recently. I've been out of work since July 24.

  15. Anonymous

    Ageism is alive and well, however, I'm a former recruiter, now in higher ed. Go to your alma mater and see if you can attend any of their job fairs. Our employers love alums. Remove your dates of graduation from LI and your resume. Skills section, as you have 20 years of experience for example, if you are seeking a job that requires 5+ years, you mock that in your summary. If you are applying to a job seeking 10+ years, mock that. It comes up in AI too. For example, I graduated in 1996 but I'm much older as I went back to school. Consider looking at jobs in government, higher ed especially. When the market turns, people go back to school which equals more jobs to serve. A lot more reliable than corporate. Hang in there!

  16. Anonymous

    Great tips! Thank you!

  17. CYNTHIA

    Ageism is likely the culprit.

  18. Anonymous

    Why do you say that?

  19. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    It's not you - this is an exceptionally tough job market. Especially in some sectors such as tech. Many of those jobs are being impacted by AI and wil not be coming back.

    It's just really tough out there right now. Please try not to get discouraged.

  20. Anonymous

    I'm afraid the job market and how we work has changes completely. It is just so hard

  21. Anonymous

    To survive and make a great income I think you need to adapt and take control. Corporations are surviving by controlling their spend across the board. That's why they find contractors and consultants so attractive. The hourly costs more but they don't have to burden it with payroll taxes, benefits, 401K matches and internal support like HR. They just pay the bill for the work. It's a strict expense if handled properly. The consultant or outside contractor also gains control of their time, their rate, where they work etc. They need to become great negotiators. Right now the market is growing with opportunity. I don't want to gatekeep this. I feel that this is the transition we are experiencing right now. This is how workers take back control.

  22. Anonymous

    I am seeing and understanding. I will keep this in mind. Thank you!

  23. Anonymous

    It's brutal. Corporations are pulling way back to deliver profits even with inflation and supply chains issues. The bar is set so high that they must play with the labor resources to get there.

    I doubt we will recover in anyway resembling prior to 2019. I think people are starting to realize that consulting and offering your talents as a vendor is the way to go. Layoffs and strategies that corporations are employing are just not cutting it anymore. I also think the pandemic showed individuals that remote and hybrid work was so much healthier and made people really understand their quality of life is really good when they are calling the shots. You can balance a high quality of work and a healthier personal life as a contractor. Companies like the freedom of only using consultants when needed. They pay a premium but only pay when they need the focused work. Things will be shifting over the next several years. Less w2 employees.

  24. CJB62

    Curious on the contracting part - how did you handle health insurance? How long did it take to replace your income from a corporate type job. Thanks!

  25. Anonymous

    For health insurance you need to go out of your own pocket. I bill 2.7x my salaried hourly rate (easy to.figure out. That way health, dental and vision are not a worry

    I work/bill 20-25 hours per week and make more than I did in the corporate world. I have a ton of extra time for my family and I can even take on a side hustle project if I want. I am 67 and delayed retiring because this fits my life right now and i can work remote anywhere, take time off as i please. I planned this. I looked at my skill set, found tasks like government filings and compliance reporting that corporations don't want to hire and train for so they see me as a bargin. I've been doing this since the pandemic. I didn't want to move back into an office situation ...i would choose to retire.

    This is the new way to work in my opinion. And companies are hiring far less so they are now very open to hire consultants and contractors. They need to get the work done but don't want the headcount, payrolls taxes, benefits etc.

  26. Anonymous

    This is brilliant thank you

  27. Anonymous

    Thank you for this response. I am open to consulting again. I have no choice lol.

  28. Anonymous

    Everyone is experiencing the same thing.

  29. Maggie Soldano

    I’ve been looking since April. It’s really tough out here.

  30. GirlBossanova934974

    The key is understanding the job market today. Applying to jobs that match your experience is not the answer IF the job is too generic OR there are TOO MANY applicants. Look for jobs that NOT everyone will be qualified for aka special skills or industry experience that NOT everyone is going to have. LinkedIN Premium for $50 per month is a good investment as i ALWAYS see how many applicants have applied. I can message as I need to. I am NOT applying to jobs where are 150 plus applicants. NEXT, be sure your LINKED Profile is PROPERLY filled out! I cannot stress this enough. I cannot tell you how many times I have heard about people NEVER getting interviews and then reading their profiles. UGH UGH! Plain vanilla.....What did the person do? NO IDEA! RECRUITERS are going through LinkedIn profiles ALL DAY and ALL NIGHT long. I get half my leads that way and I never applied to the job. I get 4-5 interview requests per week. I have 3 assessment tests to take today through Sunday......So this works!

  31. Anonymous

    Yes I skip over jobs with a high number of applicants. I’ve done LinkedIn Premium. I have done everything you said. I know I am not doing anything wrong. That’s why I am asking what else could it be!

  32. GirlBossanova934974

    I would say 2 things. Look for jobs that require some special skill or some special background like worked in video game industry or knows something about some piece of software. I have found that once one gets past the GENERIC list of credentials, the applicants quickly fall out. ALSO look for jobs that require 2-3 or more skillsets. Most applicants these days are one trick ponies. The jobs that want people with 2-4 skillsets often have just a handful of applicants. It has been a busy 4 days for me. I have gone through 3 skill assessment tests. Today, I have to get through the last.

  33. Christi Miller

    Are you customizing your resume for each job you apply to? I have seen multiple videos on how to do that using AI. It might make you stand out. Also, I have seen videos on how to "network" on LinkedIn with hiring managers. That way your resume goes to the front of the line. Good luck.

  34. Anonymous

    Of course I am. I am leveraging my network extensively.

  35. Anonymous

    Just want to tell you it’s not you! I went through the same thing for nearly a year in 2023. As many others here have said, working and getting work in this country has changed and is continuing to. What we were told - go to college get a degree get a job - was unfortunately a lie. I’ve now been part of layoffs that had nothing to do with me 2x in my short career (13 yrs), it is just crazy. And it’s also likely only going to get worse with the new administration, a bunch of people who only care about giving corporations tax breaks and allowing CEOs to continue doing the corrupt things they’re already doing to keep themselves rich. No one is concerned about working professionals having jobs, or putting laws in place to manage that. And not to mention, these are people who are apparently very keen to give professional jobs away to AI too.

    It is rough and frustrating and discouraging, and it’s tough getting through it but you will - just keep doing everything you can - rewriting your resume, continued education, practicing interviewing, reaching out to your network - and something will eventually work out.

  36. Jennifer Blake

    I miss the old days. Fill out an application, have an interview and get an answer. Reliance on computers has made things way harder in more ways than one.

  37. Anonymous

    Thank you!

  38. Anna

    Well said! Thank you! We are in this boat folks. It sucks. Let’s try to support each other as best we can.

  39. Anonymous

    Continued education for an admin. assistant? What do you suggest a "Masters in Typing"? lol. A college degree has to be the biggest joke and myth we were told we needed to success, but apparently, it's now required to do simple office work! Some EA positions require a master's degree! How absurd. But that's how it is now. I have also been part of the layoff processes - in 2008 and in 2020!! And I am a diligent worker with a very strong work ethic who would go above and beyond. Today, it truly does NOT matter how well you do what you are hired to do. It's WHO you know, and WHO you suck up to.

  40. Jos Waller

    I was out of work for over a year at one point. Have you considered signing up at a temp agency if it fits with your career path? I did find a job, and was fired (long story), but I'm working part time and also finding temp work. Just completed one assignment and I start a full-time job next week. It's a lot of hoops to jump through but the temp company should vouch for you and find you some placements. I'm signed up with two agencies so more is always better.

  41. Anonymous

    Even temp agencies are not helpful right now .

  42. Anonymous

    Yes, I am completely open to temp roles.

  43. Anonymous

    Why does not matter, the reasons are many. What does matter is your approach to finding a new role, applying and waiting is not the path. Especially if you are interested in bigger multilayered companies. Take the time to write cover notes, reach out to people who work in the company directly and go to things like blogs and forums for the type of work you do and speak to others. Make connections and work your network. Take classes or teach something while you are out of work which may lead you to those who can refer you in. Use those contacts to find and unearth potential in places where they just don't know that they need you. It is taking 6-9 months to find work these days and during this holiday season don't expect much in return as most companies stop hiring after Thanksgiving until mid January.

    Good luck.

  44. Anonymous

    I did all this, went through rounds of interviews and still didn’t get the role. Like I said I am not doing anything wrong and doing everything possible.

  45. Anonymous

    OP above, did not mean to in any way suggest that you have not done the right things, but going around a traditional approach is the way at the moment and doing so with determination and even going back at them when they pick someone else can often be the path in. good luck.

  46. Anonymous

    I am also trying to find a new EA role I was just laid off and thre is nothing out there so many applicants to one role very scarey.

  47. Anonymous

    I was laid off in January and haven’t been able to find work either. I apply for every role that matches my qualifications, ones that I’m “over qualified”, and ones that are the next step in my career, and nothing. I believe it’s my age and perhaps the years/experience I bring to the role - which in their minds equates to “expensive”. It’s humbling, frustrating, and scary.

  48. Anonymous

    It is truly scary and friends/ family don't make it easier . I am working 2 part time jobs in the interim and it's still stressful.

  49. Anonymous

    At least you are employed. Be grateful!

  50. Anonymous

    I don't know where YOU seem to assume that I am ungrateful. I am more than sure that many would never lower consider taking on 2 minimum wage jobs to pay their bills .

  51. Anonymous

    I am going thru the same thing . I have no idea what it is. It is starting to seem like an impossible task that is wearing down our mental health . Hope we all find something soon.

  52. Edward Williams

    Most companies will hire only currently employed people.

  53. Anonymous

    Why?

  54. Anonymous

    And here is the frustration with THAT. Who in their right mind, would leave a secure, and somewhat decent position, where they are valued, for a new role that brings with it many unknowns? Like the temperaments of new bosses and/or colleagues. It's truly a risk to leave to go elsewhere, and in this horrible employment market, only people who are hanging by a thread would actually leave. Also, if you are working somewhere for 1 or 2 years, why would you leave and then have a resume where you are "labeled" jumpy, not enough longevity. Unreliable, etc. It's a lose-lose situation. Recruiters also want employed people who will take endless days off to interview!! When you are working, you do NOT have that flexibility and why jeopardize your current position for something that is not guaranteed to even materialize as an offer in hand?? The unemployed are truly viewed as lepers!! WHY? Because they were discarded instead of the deadwood? I have been there, and know how these recruiters will label you without truly knowing your worth and work ethic.

  55. ANDREA RAGGAMBI

    In this market, your chances of getting a job that way are very slim. You need a referral and to leverage your network. Commit to going to networking events, ask people to introduce you to others where you might have opportunities.

  56. Anonymous

    I am very committed to networking events and people. I am in a new city and leveraging every person I know.

    Like I said, I am not doing anything wrong and doing everything possible.

    It’s like going up a mudslide.

  57. Anonymous

    And what are people to do that don't have a network? Having special needs children took my friendships and professional connections away. Currently trapped in a job I despise with a toxic abusive gaslighting boss in a small company where HR is non existant and feel like I'll never get out. Quitting isn't an option when the bills already are double my salary. Also disabled so it's even harder to find work since most companies are forcing workers back to the office and that's not really an option for me. Overwhelmed and depressed about the job market. Only one interview in 5 YEARS of trying to get out.

  58. Anonymous

    Networking is definitely a great option however those are dried roads too these days . I know a new graduate in a sought after computer industry that is still having a hard time with connections . They don't have any open roles .

  59. Joanne Weeden

    I am in the same boat. It’s even harder at 60. I spoke with a couple of recruiters who said some companies just keep posting jobs that aren’t there in order to gauge interest. I interviewed with one company and went through several interviews only to be given an offer not in line with the verbal agreement. I even asked for another meeting with the VP who had initiated the discussions. She outright lied and then blew me off. Needless to say I am still not working. It’s getting beyond frustrating.

    I’m asking the same questions you present. I’m finding integrity is missing at so many levels and that makes it more difficult for the serious job seeker.

  60. Anonymous

    I’m sorry you’re having to go through this. Don’t despair. We are in this together.

    I have found that the recruiters are not the problem, it’s the wishy washy hiring managers wasting peoples time.

  61. Anonymous

    Oh i could have written this!

  62. Anonymous

    I had been fired cold in May 2023 and in August took something in a prior industry because I couldn't find anything I wanted and ALL my unemployment benefits were ending - good stamps UE income and health ! I finally found something April 2024 and love it but it was painful & discouraging and fueled existing BIG depression, and am certain there is ageism and other discriminating factors that played into my search. I had NO OTHER household income, have ZERO retirement money and I'm 60. I hope ? i can stay in this role till I die because I dont ever want to go thru that agian but our economy is so unstable who knows

    Good luck to you and happy holidays.

  63. Anonymous

    After being out of work for one year, were you able to find work in the same field? How did you explain gap in resume?

  64. Anonymous

    I wasn't out of work for 1 yr. It was may 2023 to Aug 2023. I have been out of college since 1986. I had applied to over 150 jobs in the time I was searching. I had actually started looking in Feb 2023 and wonder if they knew and fired me - which was a blessing in disguise, really. The gap never came up but I was prepared to say I left a toxic environment and took time off to be with family and find something more suited to me. The place i left in may 2023 was a field I wouldn't return unless it was with the organization I NOW am with. The role I took in Aug 2023 (back in cust serv for a manufacturing company which I have 25 yrs experience yet i was "too old" to have an elevated role) was to put

    food on my table and gas in my car till my current

    role was avail-back in that

    field-in April 2024.

    I probably was let go originally because my attitude was bad but somewhat intentionally since I wouldn't have gotten the short term benefits I got had i walked out. That might not help since our circumstances differ but you can search for "reasons" for the employment gap. Incidentally, you do NOT need to elaborate on the reason if you say, for example, I took time off to concentrate on my family. They can't ask you why and you don't have to say anymore.

  65. Anonymous

    I am with you on this. You're not alone. I have been unemployed for 4 years now. I am depleted of my soul (not to be dramatic), and all my 401K. I feel like at 62, I'm starting over and have nothing to show for it. I am part of all types of networks, career groups, and coaching programs. I blow every interview chance, from nervous habits to stuttering, because I am the worst interviewer. I think I have a pretty good background. I was a superstar at my jobs (at certain stages). I still believe it's a good world, and I will end up someplace that fits me. (p.s. I didn't mean to make this about me).

  66. Anonymous

    I had the opportunity to go back to computer programming, then had a medical emergency, so I was taken off the account. When I was doing IT recruiting, I had a back up part-time job which I now am doing more with. I also started teaching a class (but have an MA in teaching) and am doing seasonal work including demos. I am signed up for substitute teaching come Jan1 to add to my PT job and night adult ed class. I think the political climate has one thing to do with the job market - scary. Even when I was a recruiting consultant I was leary about my job because of the economic and political climate.

  67. Anonymous

    Well it’s good that you have another career to fall back on.

  68. Anonymous

    I got laid off at the end of August and have applied to about 25 jobs and had 1 interview and no offers. Feel your pain.

  69. Anonymous

    It’s not you!!!

  70. Anonymous

    I’m an attorney and career coach. I work with senior and mid level folks to help them land roles or get promoted.

    I find having a strong understanding of your value and being able to articulate that is incredibly important.
    Also having a good resume and job search strategy that is targeted helps.

  71. Anonymous

    Thank you

  72. Anonymous

    I will try this for sure. Thank you!

  73. Paul Peterson

    I'm in a similar boat and had the same questions (let go 9 months ago, 20 yrs of experience, etc.) I've evolved my job search and every time I update, I get better results. I think the old process of applying online to everything is no longer sufficient. I started with that and got nothing. Then I started tailoring my resume and cover letter for each job (yes, it's a MASSIVE pain, but hey, what else do I have now but time?). Then I started getting more interviews. Next, I started following every application by finding 2-3 people at that company (the recruiter and the person most likely to be the position's boss, and a potential peer of the target position) and connecting through LinkedIn. That got me more interviews. I'm getting 1-2 interviews per week now, but still no offers, so now I'm focusing on my interviewing skills. We'll see how that changes my results. (If I may, I recommend the book "The Unspoken Truths of Career Success" by Teresa White. The chapters on the 5 stages of your career and what's expected at those levels has been very helpful in adjusting how I approach interviews.) Keep at it! This process is like a weird game of baseball - you get all the pitches you want, swing at everything, you're not out until you give up, and it only takes ONE hit to win and then your batting average is 1000 because all the previous at bats don't count! (Or, if you're not into sports analogies, it's like dating - keep asking people out, brush off the rejections, you're in it until you stop asking people out, it only takes ONE "yes" and after that, all the prior rejections don't count.) Take this with a grain of salt. Like I said, I'm still looking too. Your mileage may vary. GOOD LUCK!

  74. Anonymous

    You're very inspiring. Thank you so much. I am going to get the book. The author is Tessa White. I am mentioning it in case someone is going to search with Teresa.

  75. Meredith Anne Meyers

    I feel your pain and am sorry you are dealing with a job search, too. It is tough to stay committed and motivated. I became a public school substitute teacher to make some money and not have a resume gap, but if I weren't married, I'd be in serious trouble.

    I was fired in March 2024 from my job at CGI of 26 years and four relocations after a colleague attacked and assaulted me at an offsite event. I have been candid about it on LinkedIn, gone to the EEOC, and filed a lawsuit. A clip from a Toastmasters speech I did on what happened: https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkxm85CRB9b3l5dW0VEOwuxgFbOXcL6EBCz?si=UkG3wVhcEg4xNQK6

    I apply for SO MANY jobs and keep hearing I am overqualified (code for we won't pay you enough to keep you here, so we don't bother to hire you) or that companies have internal candidates, they will promote to the roles I am qualified for.

    For everyone looking, KEEP GOING - YOU'VE GOT THIS!

  76. Anonymous

    I am so sorry you had to experience this on the job, and the retribution that followed. You are a senior exec, and this is a complex situation. Please find an experienced career transition coach - with all due respect, you are shooting yourself in the foot with these public actions. Let a coach support smoothing this over and putting you on the best path to another worthy professional role. Best of Luck! New Year, New You!

  77. Meredith Anne Meyers

    I am not in this for myself or a payout -- I am in this for change and to improve a corrupt and broken system.

  78. Anonymous

    I'm not married and I am making it!!!

  79. Anonymous

    I got termed a few weeks ago after almost 18 years (so they don't have to pay severance, etc) - I was making 6 figures and now cannot even find work at a gas station or pet food store.

  80. Anonymous

    Have you considered going through temp agencies to get some work in the meantime?

  81. Anonymous

    The temp agencies are a God send. Please reach out by hook or by crook.

  82. Anonymous

    Yes. I have been out of work for a year. I have over 16 years in HR with certifications and my masters degree. I don’t know what’s going on except all I can think of is ageism. I’m 52.

  83. Anonymous

    That's how old I was when I was laid off in October of 2020. And I did find something in April of 2021. If that helps to keep you motivated. Yes, I applied to about 100+ positions through recruiters and LinkedIn. and found recruiters to be beyond rude and dismissive with me. Those very same recruiters are NOW reaching out to me now that I am gainfully employed for almost 4 yrs, and trying to lure me away from a very secure and positive work situation. Recruiters are all out for themselves. They could care less about us. Be careful.

  84. Kellye Ceder

    Yes, I am struggling as well. I hate relying on my young adult boys to help with finances. As a single Mom in IT, it hurts. I've considered trying to use a service to help me. Have you tried anything like that?

  85. Anonymous

    You at least have financial support. Imagine being truly single, and having nobody?!!

  86. Anonymous

    I'm single also but I'm still making it!!!

  87. Anonymous

    Where is the father of those young boys?

  88. Marilyn

    You’re unfortunately not alone. I’ve been searching since February and it’s brutal. I too have over 15 years of marketing experience and have done all the things, but still nothing. I keep hearing that it’s a tough market, but hoping at some point that changes. Never have I been without work for this long; it’s unnerving for sure. Best of luck, hopefully something good will come soon.

  89. Jillian Hendershot

    I wish I could say that I have no idea what you're talking about, but I've been out now for almost a year & a half (TBF though, I wasn't looking very hard for the first few months). have 18 yrs in PM tech, and when I do hear back with anything other than a form rejection, it's often the overqualified bit, even though my salary expectations match what they post they're offering. I used to work freelance in pro sports, & used to joke that the industry was built on "who" you know rather than "what" you know, and it seems ALL industries are moving to that model now

  90. Jennifer O'Leary

    Have you had your resume reviewed? I am a recruiter and we look at so many resumes every day that we are looking for specific qualifications to jump off the page for the job we are hiring for. A lot of people’s resumes are not doing them justice especially when recruiters are looking them over quickly.

  91. Anonymous

    Thanks a lot for the tip Jennifer. It certainly needs to be customized (not faked) based on the job reqs.

  92. Anonymous

    I was let go exactly a year ago after 20 years. I have applied to everything, high, low, and in between. Not 1 single interview offer. It’s brutal. I’ve redone my resume, used various job sites, online job fairs. I feel invisible. I ran out of severance payments in May and now I just got my last unemployment payment. I’m truly scared.

  93. Anonymous

    please dont shy from contacting recruiters directly on linked in from the job page. show your eagerness. show that you will be in office 5 days if need be. unless you have niche skills you wont get any response from anyone. you have to reach out more than you send applications. Good luck!!!

  94. MaryAnn Andresen

    I'm in the same boat I've been out of work for quite some time. I believe it's all the above politics the economy my age. I'm hoping 2025 land a decent job. I have been receiving so many scam job offers sounding too good to be true.

  95. Anonymous

    Just being totally transparent and open here. When I was laid of in October of 2020, It took me about 5 months to secure 2 opportunities, and both did not offer me the same pay, there was a minor cut in pay. I had great skills then, as I have now. I interview extremely well, do my research and prepare in every way. Once you are "unemployed", you are literally treated as though you are "unemployable"....recruiters views you with a very tainted pair of lenses. They question why YOU were the one to be laid off. Yes even during the height of COVID. They will try and offer you like a 30% cut in salary - literally exploit the unemployed. It's truly a horrible situation. Yet, those that are still employed, do very little, and complain about the little work they do get, and show up late and leave early. I was laid off in my 50's too! Oddly enough, I have now remained employed since May of 2021, and even in this supposedly difficult employment market, I have various recruiters reaching out to me for positions that offer me a bump in pay! I am gainfully employed and very satisfied where I work. But here they are, trying to lure me away from a very secure work situation. They want their commission, YET they won't consider the millions that are qualified for this same position, that DO need the open position. It's all a game.

  96. Anonymous

    I know of someone that was "laid off", around March of 2024, and she has still not landed anything. Yet, she has stated she is seeking a fully remote position, and looking for a 6 figure salary! - doing office work. So, you can be very unreasonable and remain unemployed if you go that route. She is also 61 yr old. Again, age shouldn't matter--but employers WILL discriminate and you will not be able to dispute against them or prove ageism. Demanding or expecting to work from home even 2 days when you have been unemployed for well over 8 months is actually beyond ridiculous. But again, some have their demands.

  97. Anonymous

    General statements...

    I landed my last two jobs at age 54 and 63. It can be done with cleaning up resume (before applying online) and appropriately styled hair, makeup and clothing for Zoom or in person interviews. Advantage is having experience.

  98. MidwestMaven456

    If you are asking the question about age and being dated, some others might be as well. Don't waste the opportunity to make some positive changes.

    Go get an updated haircut. Ask for a make-up consultation for an age appropriate, classic business look. Find a new interview suit with some modern flair. Make sure your resume is clean and has up to date touches.

    You might be thinking, "No, that is too superficial." But ask yourself, are you saying, "But I've always...or "last time..." and "My favorite stand-by..." or "I rely on..."

    Some basic cosmetic changes can let you and your talents shine.

  99. Anonymous

    Same boat!

  100. Meg Swinney

    I'm in the same boat. The company I was working for sold in March and they laid everyone off. I've sent out tons of job applications and haven't had a single bite. It's getting really stressful. I've recently redone my resume and switched my focus to a different area of my expertise. I'm hoping that will help.

  101. Anonymous

    What field are you in? Are you getting phone screens? Are you getting interviews? Have you had your resume reviewed? Do you have someone to practice your interviewing with? Is it your location? Is it your 'demands' (i.e. only considering anything 100% remote)?

    Honestly, I wish more employers do what my current and previous have done: provide outplacement services. It can go a long way in helping people get back on their feet.

  102. ZIM WEAKLEY

    I got laid off in Feb. Still looking with 25 years experience.

  103. Tammy Marcum

    I have been out of work since March and I have never had a problem finding a job. I thought it was just me....

  104. Anonymous

    Looking for almost 2 years.

  105. Ida McCarty

    Looking since July

  106. Alexandra Schwall

    Looking since August 2023. I have made it to the final round 11 times only to get passed over for the position. And now I am worried that I am basically damaged goods to prospective employers because of my long gap.

  107. Anonymous

    Believe it or not, this is the norm in 2024. Blame it on an election year. I career transition coach many many people, and this is the same story for all. Election now over, new admin touting the items Business likes to hear, a recent survey indicated the top 140 CEOs were surveyed as to their thoughts on 2025, 84% indicated 'optimistic' which should transfer into hires. Q1 great time to land, so keep it up! New Year, New You! Good luck!

  108. Anonymous

    Sorry to say but that's the situation for everyone looking for a job. a big shout out to the companies that hire only for talent and not care about age/ethnicity. my humble advice would be to find jobs that you have an edge over others like can work onsite 3 or 5 days a week. dont shy away from contracting. pay might be less but you need to pay bills.

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