I am turning 60 this year and find myself searching for another opportunity as my company decided to close my office.

64 Comments

1. Nicky Du PlessisApril 8,2024 at 10:45AM UTC

   Hi Anonymous

   I feel your pain and uncertainty.

   I have been a Professional Nurse for 37 years and a Operating Room for the past 5 years.

   I was recently forced to resign (constructive dismissal).

   My work environment became toxic and unbearable especially after the new Manager took over .

   My age has also been an obstacle in obtaining employment.

   My only solution was to start a small business in my area. so i used my tiny pension to do the training and purchase the items i needed for the start up.

   i cannot afford to sit around and wait for people to change their opinions about employed people of advanced age.

   Age discrimination is very destructive as the very same people they feel is too old, are the ones with the knowledge to get the job done properly.

   Knowing full well that those very same people are also ageing year by year....

   I wish you well and would advise that you possibly consider a new career path.

   The right position will find you.

   Good luck.

2. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 12:15PM UTC

   I'm looking now and I'm 64! I like to work and feel and look much younger than my years. I'm on my 4th round for a job right now. Hang in there. I still color my hair as I think it can influence folks (and I would look awful with grey hair, don't have the right coloring). But you should do you and be proud. Don't forget to take off the first 10-15 years of work from your resume and remove any graduation dates. You want to get your foot in the door so you can dazzle them. Good luck!

3. Beth LeporeApril 8,2024 at 12:20PM UTC

   I am unclear whether you've experienced it or you're just anticipating it? If you have found you're not getting offers, I ak sorry about that. I do understand. Sadly, I think age discrimination against women is a thing. Men are considered "distinguished" with gray hair, but women not so much. It pains me to say this but if you find that you are not getting offers, consider your hairstyle, not the color. There are a lot of chic and gorgeous cuts that will make gray hair look less "old." Good luck. Your age makes you experienced and wiser than many younger candidates so hopefully employers will see that!

4. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 12:53PM UTC

   It isn't "because of your hair", it's because you look older. I would go back to coloring it, at least until you land a new job. Then if you want to grow it out again, you can. Just please don't go too dark -- a shade or two lighter than your original hair color is better when you're older. Very dark hair color can highlight wrinkles (if you have them). Just my two cents!

5. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 12:56PM UTC

   I am 68 and appear to be in my 50s, except for my grey hair. I'm having a problem making it past the first interview, but when I see others in their 30s and 40s also waiting for the interview, I get the impression that all things being equal, they will take the younger person. I have always interviewed well and have not had this much trouble getting past the first round.

   About the hair, though. I prefer not to make myself look like something I am not. I also don't wear much makeup, as it bothers my skin. If they don't accept me because of my age or looks, then I'd rather not work there, and rather not get there by a process I don't plan to sustain (i.e., keep coloring my hair.) "You do you" is the best advice I've seen on this topic so far.

6. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 1:23PM UTC

   I would politely advise you to color your hair.

7. Sandra DunbarApril 8,2024 at 1:42PM UTC

   Wish it were not so. I looked younger and did not quit coloring my hair until I retired. Now I work in a retail support position where many customers actually look for an “older” worker because they think we know more.

8. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 1:44PM UTC

   I'm going to be 63 this year and am moving to another state next February. I'm worried about the same thing. I HAVE to work, no retirement for me after a divorce.

9. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 2:00PM UTC

   My advice: find your tribe and go where you are most comfortable. This is a very, very tough job market right now and it's even harder for us extremely seasoned employees particularly in youth-obsessed industries like tech. I am actually changing industries while maintaining my salary level because of age and gender bias. Don't give up hope! While I'm still waiting to land, I interviewed last week on a close to final round and the thing that felt most wonderful for me was the fact that most of the people interviewing seemed to be around my age as well (50s). They were really focusing on the Hands-On expertise I bring to the table. Frankly, I'm really hoping I get it because I'm so tired of having to dumb myself down to fit in in environments that want my expertise but don't want the expense of my experience me along with it. I do admit that I dye my hair, but it's for me more than anything else because gray does not look well on me! The right tribe will be focused on how you make the company better, not your hair. Good luck!

10. Sue Gordon- retired Career CoachApril 8,2024 at 2:19PM UTC

    While the sweet person has a point, the fact that "age discrimination is real" trumps that. There is unconscious bias that can come into play, so while an employer may not overtly think "oh my, she's got gray hair" -- it may subtly inform a quick decision to look at other candidates. While your search, it might be best to cover the grey. As you said, age discrimination is real. I think if your hair greys while you are on the job, it will be less of a problem.

11. Dianna DeeleyApril 8,2024 at 2:24PM UTC

    Dye your hair, and if you're carrying a little roll at your waist, get rid of it. Get facials and manicures. Look at clothes that are a little "younger" - without going crazy and trying to dress like a 20-year-old. Talk to the make-up counter ladies for some advice on current trends in style.

    It's very, very difficult to get past people's perceptions that you're "too old, therefore too hard to train" if you make them think of their mother or grandmother,

    I am 60, and a consultant. I would prefer to be employed at a level commensurate with my skills and experience, but I have found that very difficult. So I consult. I do not dye my hair (I put my hair in different braids) but I do get facials and manicures, and pay close attention to what's going on with clothes and make-up, and I've been in martial arts for years, so I don't worry over-much about my physical condition.

    My very best wishes for your success.

12. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 4:43PM UTC

    Yes, they're right but so are you. If you need to work and feel certain changes in appearance will help you and are affordable, you have to do what's right for you.

    As for tailoring your resume', proceed with caution. Sometimes only showing up to 10 years of experience backfires, i.e. you have earlier experience that is more relevant to the job you're going for; why leave that out when that experience may assist in getting you hired more than the more (or most) recent one?

13. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 9:17PM UTC

    I would recommend showing 20 years of your work experience. You don’t want anyone to be taken back by how old you are especially with the gray hair. Make sure your LinkedIn matches your resume as well. Everyone views your LinkedIn profile and if you do not have one, then that shows your age as well.

14. SteffApril 9,2024 at 1:08PM UTC

    Ageism is rampid! My role is being eliminated and needed a job ASAP or I risk the inevitable. Single income household. The market right now is also 10x worse than the 2009 recession. Keep focused on your goal and your qualifications. If you focus on the "other" stuff then you will keep running into it. The right job will turn up. I hope you are active on LinkedIN and connected with recruiters. Good luck!

15. Dawn McDonnellApril 9,2024 at 1:56PM UTC

    Know that it’s going to be a journey in time patience and some come to Jesus moments. Might I add if young folks out there with college degrees graduate degrees young with no grey hair apply to 300-500 jobs and get rejected or ghosted 90% of the time then put your boot straps on and take a get ready pill, hmmmmm you maybe able to do remote work and take a pay cut. No one sees what you look like remotely. The other piece of advice at 60 is get your investments in order, figure out when you plan to collect social security? Later is better for more money. Medicare is right around the corner . Keep your health really good.

    if your out of your job look for Golden rule United health plans.

    Matket place can be very confusing and costly. Heath coverage is your # 1 priority.

    if things are healthy consider starting your own business as some of those expenses are deductible and will give you fullfillment, meaning and purpose for the rest of your life. This is a time in life full of a different mind set, different body changes, and most of all Mentsl and physical health while strategizing “ wher am I going to live in my 60’s , 70, & beyond. How am I going to have a good life?

    When will I collect social security?

    How will I pay my taxes with RMDs when I’m 72. What are my living trusts like? Do I have one.

    Am I a caretaker.

    what happens if I get sick?

    where am I going ?

    This is not about grey hair. This is a whole different world .

16. Denise PopishApril 9,2024 at 2:05PM UTC

    I am APPALLED at the women in this thread telling you to color your hair or loose weight!!! The day we stop accepting who we are and where we are in life, we may as well give up. I am 66, I could retire but do not want to, I love working, but also hate where I am at. I know first hand that ageism is real, I experience it almost daily in my work. I am in government, in a man's world. I look for a career jump almost daily and refuse to give up!

    I'm not coloring my white hair, I am not lying about my extensive work experience and achievements. This may or may not hinder me but I am certainly not going to conform to this thing where women must have colored hair, be thin and have perfectly done nails. Celebrate who you are, there ARE employers out there with better work ethics.

17. AnonymousApril 10,2024 at 12:31PM UTC

    We don't live in an ideal world, and letting bias hurt us won't change things.

18. Martha YoungbloodApril 9,2024 at 3:13PM UTC

    Okay, I'm adding my two cents worth. I'm 59, don't dye my hair, never have my nails done, and don't wear makeup at all. When I left my last position (at 56), I applied to three different places and had interviews at each within a week of applying.

    My sister and cousins (all older than me) asked when I was going to color my hair (think I may have made them look bad). Told them I wasn't because I figured I had earned every gray hair on my head.

    Would share what I think about wearing makeup, but don't feel like getting into an argument.

19. AnonymousApril 13,2024 at 4:17PM UTC

    66 - i highlight my hair because I like it, not because i need to hide anything. Born blond, love it lighter. I don't wear makeup unless I go out at night, and even that is minimal. Sunscreen and tinted moisturizer. I think makeup makes older women look much older!

20. Tami L CannizzaroApril 9,2024 at 4:03PM UTC

    Career Coach here. I feel you. As you can see from my photo, my hair is natural; started graying in my 20's followed by years of trying to cover it up. Finally quit trying to cover it during the pandemic and have never looked back. People actually tell me it looks better than it did when I colored it!

    Here's my philosophy: There is a difference between being your age and acting old. If you were my client, I'd want to know if you were up to date on the latest skills/software/technology related to your job/industry. Are you able to keep up conversations with those younger than you? Have you remained relevant or are you stuck in another decade? These are important when interviewing and making connections with younger team members; and as you know, making a connection is an important element of getting an offer.

    Aside from having up-to-date skills, if I can understand and engage in conversation over coffee with my younger counterparts, then I'm good.

    Re: how much experience to keep on your resume - standard "rule of thumb" - no more than 10 years. This is because technology and the way we work change so quickly that anything older than 10 years is considered obsolete. The exception to this: Let's say you are applying for a Product Manager role, and your only experience is older than 10 years, then we find a way to include this title without listing all of your experience in detail.

    Personally, I don't speak of my age, graduation dates, kid questions or other things that employers can't ask of me. It's no one's business. If someone asks one of these questions, I laugh and give them a non-answer answer.

    I hope this helps!

21. Nancy D. RansomApril 12,2024 at 1:19PM UTC

    Excellent

22. AnonymousApril 9,2024 at 5:39PM UTC

    Everyone is dealing with ageism, sexism, and bullyism. It's unfortunate that the workplace has become a toxic place these days. You be you, good for taking off anything more than 10 years from the resume. Focus on your experience and what you bring to the workplace and get lots of letters of recommendation before they close shop. Dress business casual when you interview and make sure you are up to date on all the details of the role you are interviewing for. Will it be a perfect solution no, but you will find something good if you persist and use your network to refer you as much as possible.

23. Denise PopishApril 9,2024 at 5:55PM UTC

    My hair is naturally white, I do my own eyebrows and I weigh close to 200 lbs, but thanks for the compliments.

24. Denise PopishApril 9,2024 at 5:57PM UTC

    Bravely posting anonymously. Perhaps it wasn't me putting anyone down. I was not putting anyone down, I am simply saying that as women we should encourage each other, not tell each other what's wrong and how to change.

25. Martha YoungbloodApril 9,2024 at 6:31PM UTC

    You're not wrong. However, I've also worked for a very public nonprofit nursing association. Didn't wear makeup then either. And business dress was only required for conferences.

26. Nadine BonnerApril 10,2024 at 7:53AM UTC

    71 year old here. I was laid off last year and have been struggling in a job market that is tough whatever age you are. If you are older, it is just another strike against you. My advice is color your hair and professionalize your appearance. It won't get you a job -- your skills and personality will do that -- but if it helps you get a foot in the door, why not? I tailor my resume based on the job I am applying for, replacing different jobs for ones more pertinent. It's not 1960 -- no one expects you to be in the same job for 20 years. Best of luck.

27. AnonymousApril 10,2024 at 11:40AM UTC

    i am not a recruiter, etc., so take this for what it’s worth. People of all ages and degree levels are struggling to get a job right now. There’s an age bias against the younger generations as well for not staying in jobs as long. You can dye your hair or whatever you feel comfortable with, but first and foremost you need to get in the door. Make sure your resume is polished, with relevant skills and achievements, that will grab a recruiters or hiring managers attention in the 30 seconds they spend on it and make them want to talk to you. Also age proof it, meaning don’t put the year you graduated from college, don’t put your high school, etc. The 10-15 year experience rule is not as much about age in my opinion, but more about relevancy. Something you did 20 years or a software package you used then may not be relevant today. If it is still relevant, you can add it under “other experience” without putting dates.

    Sure, they can still look at your LinkedIn and such and rule you out before offering an interview, but even getting an interview is tough these days. Recruiters I follow have said they spend 30 seconds on each resume scanning for keywords and such. So the resume is your initial face. Worry about the rest when you’re getting the interviews.

    Now if you’re applying in person, that might be a different story.

    Not sure I understand the lose weight quick comments. It’s not that easy to get rid of a gut quickly at any age unless you can afford a tummy tuck. Also getting a tummy tuck wouldn’t remove my enviable booty. People of all ages can carry extra weight.

    Also look at the jobs you’re applying for. It might be a tough time to switch careers. I’ve personally given up on applying for SAAS or tech jobs. It’s not an industry I’ve been in and find they only want industry experience. I’m sure there are some unicorn employers in these industries that hire for skill, but that’s not my experience so far.

    I admittedly have checked out the company on LinkedIn and looked at who works there. If it’s all obviously folks a lot younger than me, I don’t bother. Yes, I’m guilty of age biasing the company before I apply. lol

    Lastly don’t fall for the paid services or expensive job coaches that recycle content and promise you a way to beat ATS and such. A lot of the information out there is false and crazy making.

28. AnonymousApril 10,2024 at 12:29PM UTC

    Yes, dye your hair! Your next supervisor is likely going to be younger than you. I was laid off at 65 and I dye my hair before each interview (so far no new job). The people screening you in the first stage won't even be your manager if it's a large organization, so eliminate any potential cause of bias that you can!

    Good luck. I was also laid off at 63, and found another job... which was eliminated a year later. It sucks to be on the market at this age.

29. AnonymousApril 10,2024 at 12:45PM UTC

    I agree with reviewing your resume and like others have said, getting an interview is not as easy as it may have been in the past. Because of so many layoffs with larger companies there is so much competition and don’t forget about the internal employees also looking to move into new positions in there company.

    Don’t get discouraged. I just received an offer and I am 66 yrs young. I edited my resume but I will admit I do color my hair as I gray only around the frame of my face but I color my hair anyway. I was laid off back in Nov and knew I would not get anything in Q4 and with that in mind, it took about 4 months to get a job.

    At the end of the day, when it comes to coloring your hair you need to do what you feel comfortable with. Just want to add am really surprised that the recruiter said that to you about your hair. Ask yourself is this a company you want to work for.

30. Karen HenshawApril 10,2024 at 2:50PM UTC

    I'm in the same boat.

31. Bridget HarringtonApril 10,2024 at 7:13PM UTC

    I was hired at my current job 5 years ago with fully grey hair. I'm 55. I also have waist-length, very thick hair, which triggers a lot of people for some reason.

    I think there will always be companies that will screen you out for some perceived "age" reason. And no, you do not want to work for those companies. It's not hard to find their attitudes with a little research, so I avoid companies like that. I was hired at my current job to replace a very senior employee who was retiring. So, in order to step into his shoes, I needed to have specific experience that no one under 40 will have. Just reading the job spec told me that they were open to someone my age. And the company also rarely has openings and people tend to stay for decades, which told me that they were not age-adverse.

    Grey is just a color. And despite the marketing, it isn't a factor of age, either. I had completely silver hair under dye by the time I was 25. It's just my family genetics. I do have a young face, and I capitalize on that.

    There are things many do that make them look older, so examine your look, the way you speak and the styles you wear, and tweak as needed. I wear the same styles as younger women, I walk quickly and with purpose and I keep myself in good physical shape. I speak in a current way and am careful not to say words that date me. I also NEVER talk about "retirement" or not being able to keep up with work or anyone/anything. I am YOUNG, ENERGETIC and have NO BARRIERS TO WORKING.

    Many are surprised I am as old as I am -- and that is the perception you want to cultivate. You can't control ageist attitudes but you can control not being perceived wrongly.

32. AnonymousApril 10,2024 at 8:06PM UTC

    Agree on the hair. I have longer hair as well at 50, just barely starting to grey, and still get asked when I plan to cut it. Told that it's too young for me. I have had short hair before and it looks horrible on me. As long as my hair looks good, I will wear it long regardless of my age. Also agree that some are gray early. I know a past coworker in her 30s who is completely grey already.

33. Bridget HarringtonApril 11,2024 at 6:12PM UTC

    The concept that long hair is age-specific is an outdated "conditioning" concept. American women prior to 1920 had long hair, regardless of age. Older women tended to wear it in buns or braids. I think the short hair narrative comes from the 1920s, when women first started to cut their hair in the "flapper bobs." Those hairstyles required frequent trims. Then, when flappers started to age and have children, the idea became that to be considered "a grown up," the hair had to be short....when really, it was just those women continuing and justifying a style they liked. And they passed the thinking on to their daughters. That's my theory, anyway :-)MOST "beauty standards" are marketing-related. Dye won't be sold unless women are made to feel they need it. Same with hair. I cut my hair to my chin to grow out the hair dye and it was HORRIBLE. I do not have the features for short hair and it made me look very matronly and severe. I've had very long hair for my entire life and see no reason to cut it, either.

34. Martha YoungbloodApril 11,2024 at 6:08PM UTC

    I'm 59 and my hair is almost waist-length and gray. I've gotten a lot of compliments on it. If asked when I plan to get it cut, I usually reply "when I'm too old and arthritic to take care of it." ?. And like you, a lot of folks are surprised when I tell them my age.

35. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 2:42PM UTC

    "You can't control ageist attitudes but you can control not being perceived wrongly."

    Truer words haven't been written on this website in a long time.

36. Tami L CannizzaroApril 10,2024 at 7:14PM UTC

    Great question! Short answer - we want to present the same information to everyone, so LI should also have the last 10 years of our work experience. If we have different "stories" out there, recruiters and hiring managers may be confused as to which is correct, or wonder if we've made a mistake somewhere. We don't want this to happen.

    A question came up here I think about experience that is older than 10 years, yet may be relevant to the job for which you are applying. In that case, create a new section called "Additional Experience" or "Related Experience" and place it directly under the Professional Experience section of your resume. Then list the job title and company ONLY of the jobs you want to include. No need to include bullet points that show your skills here; you can speak to this experience as needed during the interview.

37. Holly MaszaticsApril 11,2024 at 1:12PM UTC

    I’m in the same boat ?

38. AnonymousApril 11,2024 at 9:28PM UTC

    I understand completely as ageism is alive and well and it's everywhere. I do color my hair but genetically I'm low on grays so what I do have I highlight. I'm 59, and approaching 60 but have a young appearance, and am young at heart. I also work in higher ed so it's more accepted there. We have workers from 21 to 81, I'm not kidding. I'd rather be retired than working full-time at 81, but the reality is most of us can't retire like our grandparents and parents. Maybe look at your local colleges and universities. They tend to embrace multi-generations. I work with people of all ages and the students keep me young. And look at non-profits too. Sometimes the corporate world slants towards early career talent instead of what I deem seasoned workers like us. Ignore the ageism, put your best foot forward and if anyone says when are you retiring tell them you have years to work and like to be productive. Even the younger ones have enormous competition. Think high to rise and you will achieve! Good luck to you and keep us posted!

39. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 1:01PM UTC

    I was just forced out at 60. The younger guys I managed (male dominated blue collar municipal job) said I was confused, unorganized, and forgetful. I was only hired a year and a half ago....AND beat out 7 internal candidates one of whom I managed. Furthermore, my first day I was told no one (labor guys) wanted me here and they were hoping for their buddy, my new staff member, to get the job.

    Then a week later my boss found out how old I was and asked me if it was true. ( A guy who works there shares the same exact birthday with me, he shared this info before I started, we knew each other professionally before I worked there) Oh And, first woman ever in a foreman role....

    I worked my butt off, got no support, and was forced out by the new deputy director who's best friend is, no other than the guy who worked for me!

    So, here I am. 60. Looking for a new job . Considering retirement from state pension and getting a lesser paying job for insurance coverage. BTW, Costco asks if you're over 40 on the application and won't let you proceed without answering.

    Thanks for reading

40. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 1:21PM UTC

    I turned 60 last year.
    After being in a consulting job for 9 years (38 total years of experience), I began considering leaving the company for another one. My longtime manager retired, and I was supposed to be promoted to her position as I have many years of expertise in our field. However...our division was shuffled around and ended up under a partner who had no idea what our area did and didn't care as long as money was coming in the door. I found out that I was making less with 9 years there than lower-level new hires with less than six months of experience. I was livid. They knew how old I was and expected me to be with them until retirement, so why would they pay me more? One of our clients had also becone a close friend of mine, and I clued him in confidentially that I was considering my options. He immediately asked if I was interested in working for them as a full-time employee, and I said I absolutely was. We worked out a sweet deal for both of us, and I turned in my resignation. The current company was blindsided and began to scramble to fill my job. The person who had been placed as manager had no experience in my field, and he floundered after relying on me to give him information to answer questions and wrote reports. Last I heard, they had hired three people to replace me, none of whom had more than a year experience prior.

    I am extremely happy with my new job and am treated very well. I'll be here indefinitely.

    After experiencing such blatant ageism, I have to say that I enjoyed watching them twist in the wind. :)

41. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 2:48PM UTC

    I'm leaving my job at a university partly due to ageism comments and my mid 30s now supervisor was promoted over me - less experience and less education. I would have worked many more years, but now I know for certain there are no more promotions for me. I've watched the university hire younger individuals to higher paying positions to only have them leave in less than 2 years. I'm still energetic, don't look my age and have much more to give. Headed to a new journey now. Thankfully, I am not in a position where I need to work, but I loved my day to day work with the students.

42. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 4:01PM UTC

    Congratulations and believe me, no one enjoys seeing practitioners punished for blatant age discrimination more than I do! (I'm 57, I dye my hair, and I despair of the day that the Snap Camera filters stopped being supported because among the hundreds of silly effects, there was one that just plain made me look better. My last layoff was sufficiently interpretable as age discrimination that they immediately doubled my severance the minute I said the magic words. )

    In my field (and probably others, I only know my own), staff jobs come with pretty rigorous noncompete agreements designed to keep employees from taking jobs with clients for anywhere from six months to two years.

    Even in California, where noncompete clauses are harder to enforce because some of them are illegal, you still have to lawyer up and pay legal fees out of pocket if your former employer decides to come after you even if the noncompete is invalid.

43. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 1:25PM UTC

    I dye my hair at 64.

    May I add another topic here ? I am not looking for a job but I have noticed a big change in the way my male coworkers relate to me since I got past 60 or even my late 50s. Men who stopped to talk to me for years just walk by now with just a polite hello. This happens in personal life, but it's shocking in the office. I've talked to my friends and they say the same. It is absolute ageism for these men who are my age or close to it - they can't be bothered with any woman of our age. Ironically the younger men stop and talk. I wonder if any other women relate to this.

44. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 1:37PM UTC

    I do not think coloring your hair will do the trick. I am 54, and I color mine, and I can tell you there's so much age discrimination out there it makes me sick to my stomach. When it comes to discrimination, the irony is—regardless of sex, gender, race, etc—age is what we all have in common.

45. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 1:58PM UTC

    I’m in the same boat. Many companies don’t seem to value experience.

    It is tough to stay positive in this job market. It helps to have a community like this to vent and ask advice in.

    Please know you are not alone.

46. Julie Jordan-WadeApril 12,2024 at 2:33PM UTC

    You are definitely NOT alone! 59 here, I pass for younger, and my resume only goes back 15 years. I've been searching since my job was "eliminated due to business needs" in August 2023. I just heard back from a recruiter with whom I'd gone through 3 rounds of interviews (Feb. 7 to March 19) only to be told that "the team has decided not to fill the position after all." At least this 2nd quarter has brought about more interest and responses to my applications, but I NEED to work now. And for the next 10-15 years, as I'm raising my grandchild solo. I just don't get why hiring managers don't seem to value education, experience, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. I've had younger bosses, and the age thing is not an issue for me as long as they are professional, so I can't understand why it may be an issue for them. I honestly feel that if I were a job hopper, an active alcoholic or drug user, or a convicted felon, I'd have a much better chance of getting employed. Those all seem to be more 'forgivable" than simply being older. If I apply for a job, it's because I feel I can do it and it interests me. Don't assume I'll leave for something better or that offers more money because I get it about company culture and work/ life balance. I value much more than just salary in an employer. It's incredibly frustrating, but I'm staying positive and putting best foot forward because I refuse to let this get me down.

47. AyianApril 12,2024 at 4:06PM UTC

    Honestly, HR folk generally only want to see 10 years in the resume. The rest of your experience can be conveyed in a cover letter if you deem it necessary. Resumes exceeding 10 years are often downgraded in priority, as the person filtering resumes had to read through the extra or move on. Resume content and form can be an indicator of age and more than 10 years is a common tell. Consider that they're likely reading through at least a hundred resumes per open position and adjust for eye fatigue and general weariness of reading. Simple swaps like and/& are generally appreciated as well.

48. Julie Jordan-WadeApril 12,2024 at 7:12PM UTC

    I appreciate this. The only thing is I have some well-known, impressive companies on my resume and I hate to leave those off. Then again, those jobs include some duties I've not done since then, so I'm now wondering how relevant they would even be (?). This is good food for thought...thank you!!

49. Michelle GiurlaniApril 12,2024 at 2:53PM UTC

    Sadly, the SCOTUS ruled recently that corporations can fire you because of being a more expensive employee (which most older employees are with more experience) as long as the corporation can show they are making cost reductions. In short, age discrimination is not illegal if 1) you're more expensive than others in your group and 2) the company can point to cost reductions which every company does in this environment. This was an eye opener to me and downplayed by media on SCOTUS rullings of late.

50. Karen McCaffrey KayoumiApril 12,2024 at 3:05PM UTC

    I lost my job at 55 just about five years ago. I tried for a bit to find something in the niche area I worked, but ultimately started my own business - virtual bookkeeping and really enjoy it. Do I miss my six-figure salary (ones and zeroes mostly) and the nice benefit package? YES, I'm I hating the tax bill I have to pay this year? YES But am I super proud of myself for having this business, being an S-corp now, so an employee of the company I stated. YES!!! Good luck.

51. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 3:39PM UTC

    I was in a similar situation at the age of 56. Thankfully it was during Covid and phone interviews. During those interviews, after I sold myself on my qualifications and experience I would bring to the table I would add … “Let me tell you another thing about myself …. I am your ideal candidate. I no longer have kids at home, no senior parents to care for and no grandkids. I do not have the distractions that many people have. I bring experience and dedication to the team where others may come with distractions. I’m the person you want to hire.”

    I had several companies who said it moved me to the next level of interviews and the company I that hired me said that was what set me apart.

    I suggest addressing it before they pass you by. Market it to be a desirable trait.

52. Changemaker179219April 12,2024 at 3:40PM UTC

    I put my resume on every outlet possible. I got a call ( I was 59) Told about a position, the guy hired me over the phone..I was working temp jobs. I started the very next day--I've been here 6 years

53. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 4:56PM UTC

    I am 63... I have not stumbled upon age discrimination yet... Please don't automatically assume that you will be discriminated against... Don't color your hair just be yourself and upgrade your resume... Let us know if you do encounter issues

54. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 6:23PM UTC

    It may be more accurate to say that you have not experienced age discrimination that you're aware of. Doesn't mean you haven't been discriminated against because of your age. All forms of age and other types of discrimination aren't always blatant.

55. Rosa GoesApril 15,2024 at 5:52PM UTC

    I agree. I don't think anyone would admit to it anyway! You'd have to read between the lines is my guess.

56. AnonymousApril 12,2024 at 5:17PM UTC

    I color my hair and exercise to stay in shape so that I look younger. (I'm 52 and everyone thinks I'm 10 to 15 years younger.) I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to look your best and stay healthy. It builds self confidence which is very important when applying for a new job and during an interview. For my resume, I only include jobs from the past 20 years (and only positions that are relevant to the job I'm applying for). I had a professional job consultant tell me that anyone over the age of 40 should remove all dates that might indicate your age (e.g., the year you graduted from college) from your resume.

    As long as you keep learning new skills that are relevant to the position you're applying for, and you can use standard communication technology (Zoom, Slack, Microsoft Teams, etc.), you should be able to find a job in your field that pays well. Good luck!

57. Rosa GoesApril 12,2024 at 10:12PM UTC

    There's nothing wrong with coloring your hair. I consider it part of a woman's upkeep. It's like makeup, we may not need it but we do it because we like how it looks. Good luck in your job search. Hope you find a position soon!

58. BarbaraApril 13,2024 at 2:50PM UTC

    First of all I think the age discrimination was a lot more prevalent a few years ago. Now with “quiet quitting” and the job jumping of the younger generations, seniors are sought after these days. Also re gray hair. For myself I am gray all

    over and wanted to show it off. My

    hair dresser pointed out that only the front part of my hair looked good. It’s pure white the rest is all

    kinds of steel gray and just not pretty. So she colors my hair above rich brown and leaves the pure white in front. It looks great and I don’t have to stress about covering my grays. It shows that I’m not a kid but gives me style and polish. Im

    66 and work for a boss in his 30s. We hire all ages mostly interested in skills talent and fit.

59. AnonymousApril 13,2024 at 4:08PM UTC

    First of all, there are plenty of young women with totally white hair. (Women that want white hair!) so, ignore that part and concentrate on your skill set and lose some of the years off your resume. IMHO, too many years, too many pages. Concentrate on your acheievements.

60. Lata DattaniApril 13,2024 at 7:15PM UTC

    Good Luck hope you find something interesting.

61. Sheri SpagnolaApril 14,2024 at 2:15PM UTC

    I lost my job during the pandemic, but not because of the pandemic. The whole department closed and everyone lost their jobs. I was 64 and I took a temp job at a law firm. Did not like it and did not return. In the meantime, I would pass a particular company on my way to interviews (sometimes 2 a day, until they saw me in person, with my salt and pepper hair). Anyway, I decided on a whim one day to inquire if this random company needed help. I told them my skills and filled out an application, only mentioning the previous 10 years. This company called a week later and asked if I would accept part-time. I said no and continued my search. Another week passed and they called again. I told them I would only take a full-time position. I have been there 3 years and while it's not the wage I would have preferred it is okay. I am happy and I am employed. I still have my salt and pepper hair and so does my supervisor. The owner is now 35, he is the one who hired me. Don't give up.

62. AnonymousApril 14,2024 at 2:59PM UTC

    I left a fulltime (and soul sucking) position after over 16 years there, post covid. It became a matter of my mental and physical well being. I am glad I left (no regrets) AND it was really hard to do. In this pause I've pursued work experiences in areas I had been curious about (very fun!). Financially, I took a look at the resources I had, how I could use them differently and what no longer served me. AND I grew into my natural color (which I LOVE, for so many reasons). I share this journey because after two years, I am MUCH happier, healthier and grounded in who I am, what I value and how I want to spend the next 20+ years. I also learned that others will always have something to say/think about my path that has nothing to do with ME, but with their own comfort level. In fact finding my people is much easier when I have followed my own path than some else's idea of what it should be. Take what serves you from this response. Keep growing into a person you can be happy and proud of (others just may follow!)

63. AnonymousApril 14,2024 at 3:01PM UTC

    I am 66 and started with my current company in a full-time senior manager role at 63.
    Ageism is absolutely real and I did everything you are doing (only showing 10 years) on my resume, etc. It’s really important to project energy and passion and that along with your experience to overcompensate for age. Interview like you are an ideas person which shows you are not locked and fixed in your ways. Interestingly, my husband’s friend started coloring his hair in his late 50’s because even as a male he was concerned about the “age” thing. It made him feel much more confident so for him that was a good thing. You might want to consider if it would have a positive impact on how you would see yourself or maybe it would not since you already made the decision to stop coloring so it may not have that type of impact on you. FYI, my natural color is brown. I started with golden highlights to add more interest in my 20’s and am continuing to this day. We gray late in my family and now that is starting to happen for me. I will continue coloring my hair since I kind of always have. A few of my friends have gone totally gray. They do look a lot older than those who are coloring their hair. If you are wearing it well and feeling confident and can project your greatness then keep as is. I don’t think it’s having gray hair specifically that is the issue. Now if coloring your hair would make you look considerably younger you may want to give it some consideration. Just wanted to share some other perspectives with you. Good luck in your search and don’t give up!

64. AnonymousApril 14,2024 at 10:02PM UTC

    Your skills will likely be highly valued by future employers. They will always be in demand if you keep your skill set and knowledge updated. Your resume needs to be ATS scanner friendly. I can't speak for anyone else, but yes, I do everything within reason to freshen my appearance and act/look my best. It has to be your own choice about coloring your hair. Try to see the age range and general appearance/culture of future workplaces you're considering.