After 20 years as the owner/operator of a local business- the doors have unfortunately closed due to the global pandemic.

Terri Els

September 22,2021 at 1:35PM UTC

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After 20 years as the owner/operator of a local business- the doors have unfortunately closed due to the global pandemic.

I’ve been sending my resume out since January 2021. My skill set, I believe, is on point. I can’t seem to get my foot in the door anywhere.

I feel that the odds are stacked against me as I am 62 years old. Of course company’s are going to state they are an EOO - but ageism is a real thing.

Thoughts? Advise?

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Michelle820September 22,2021 at 1:55PM UTC
I am in that same position but I am 68 young ageism is a real thing. I have also interviewed for many jobs below my skill set and didn’t get hired. I have also applied for jobs that I could do with my eyes closed because I was in that particular field for 25yrs, I notice they look at my resume over and over again but never reach out. I have started looking at it from their point of view and don’t like it but can except. I know that the field for substitute teachers has opened up and I was actually approached by a private school to teach. But, now the question becomes, due to this pandemic. How safe is it for me to work at that type of environment? Point being at our age we face a lot of challenges that younger people don’t, and that our children don’t understand after seeing us work at high paying positions and who know our value.
CMP_88September 22,2021 at 3:37PM UTC
Not knowing you're background and business, but... could you self-employ as a consultant? Or, maybe sign on with a temp agency?
Joanne RosenSeptember 22,2021 at 4:27PM UTC
Ageism is totally real. What type of job are you looking for? You may want to consider applying for Remote positions. Also, make sure your resume is kickass! It needs to blow their socks off with achievements.
If you want, we can do a free analysis of your current resume to let you know what is missing. Upload it at: www.analyticadvantagecc.com
Cheers
Joanne
(Who just turned 61 yesterday and am glad I don't have to look for work!)
Erin Thomas, Career + Leadership CoachSeptember 22,2021 at 10:25PM UTC
What sort of jobs are you applying to? It is SO important to translate your experience precisely to what the job is. Also, be sure to highlight your brand as an owner, CEO, and operator, and whatever else sets you a part AND is aligned precisely with he job you're applying to. Customize, customize, customize.
Re: ageism, be sure you aren't divulging your age in your resume with education dates and such, this is important, just leave the dates out completely.
Also, my Changing Careers After 40 group program begins next week and it may be just the support you are looking for.
Check it out and holler with any questions: www.careerandleadershipcoaching.com
Join my Career Change After 40
AnonymousSeptember 26,2021 at 1:07PM UTC
What kind of jobs are you looking at? If you’re not even getting interviews, I would guess that your resume and cover letter needs to be revamped and tailored to each opening.
Do you have a network of people in your industry? That can be a big help in finding good jobs. People like hiring people that they already know and trust.