I am a 59 year old female.

47 Comments

1. Barb HansenJanuary 18,2024 at 4:43PM UTC

   You may have done this already on your resume but just in case you haven't, remove all references to your age on your resume including:

   -- graduation dates for any post-secondary education you have received.

   -- remove your work history pre-the mid '2010s

   Hopefully that will get you an interview where you can lean into your experience and resilience which hopefully will get you a job.

2. AnonymousJanuary 18,2024 at 7:46PM UTC

   I second this entire comment. I am thankful every day that I didn't let an "older" graduation date prevent me from interviewing and hiring my last employee. He is smart, mature, sure of himself without being cocky, and the best employee hire I have made. I wish I could find 10 of him!

   The funny thing is I already had my decision made. I knew I was going to hire the young guy I interviewed earlier in the week. I had already told my boss that I was more than likely going to hire him. I had a couple of no-call no-shows which made me feel my thoughts were correct. Then Mr. B showed up.

   The way he carried himself was different and honestly he was a breath of fresh air. The last thing he told me was "If you hire me, you won't regret it". He was an immediate yes. I have not regretted a single moment.

   It saddens me that some would have overlooked him because of his age when he has outworked both of my 20something combined.

3. AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 4:46PM UTC

   What about applications? They usually demand the truth, including dates, i.e graduation, months and years in a position. How do you get around or past that? Not having it on your resume seems pointless- you'll get "caught" trying to conceal your age and your honesty/professionalism will get called into question.

4. Barb HansenJanuary 19,2024 at 8:08PM UTC

   If I was entering my details into an online application form and dates were required on my post-secondary education, I would absolutely tell the truth.

   But, I would stop adding my career history at the closest historical job that I held that I started in the mid-2000s. I would not add my full career history, because my resume doesn't have my full career history. I would make my online application match my resume.

   I've never been questioned while I graduated from college in 1983 and the earliest job on my resume as a start date of 2005, but you raise a interesting point which I've not thought about before.

   I personally don't believe that removing 20 years of my work career from my resume is less-than-honest or less-than-professional. The first 15 years of my work career was in a completely different industry than the last 25 years and no tech company looking to hire a Head of Product (which is what I do) cares that I worked as a laboratory scientist from 1983 to 1996 (unless of course I was applying for a product role in a health medicine related company)

5. AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 8:41PM UTC

   Employers are mostly interested in what a candidate has done in the last 10-15 years and aren’t interested beyond that point.

6. AnonymousJanuary 18,2024 at 4:55PM UTC

   I am so sorry to hear that you’re going through that. From what I’ve seen you now have to be submitted at least 15 applications a week at minimum and expect a call back for every 80 or so applications you put it. The job market is absolute garbage right now for many reasons I could go on and on about. The good thing is, now that we’ve hit the beginning of the year and people are hiring more actively things should start looking up! Wishing you nothing but the best.

7. Brenda GarateJanuary 18,2024 at 7:12PM UTC

   Ageism is definitely a thing you should be aware of but Anonymous is right, the job market is poo-poo right now for many reasons. January usually brings opportunity though so keep the faith, and double down on your resume output and especially those follow-ups. The squeaky wheel... and all that. Make it happen!

8. AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 2:48PM UTC

   Just playing a numbers game is not going to be very effective and will just keep you busy pumping out applications. Please do everything you can via LinkedIn to identify HR names and to figure out who the hiring manager might be based on the job description. I often send my resume to multiple people in a company in addition to the online application system and this helps to raise your resume to the top of the pile. FYI, I am older than you and have success getting job.

9. AnonymousJanuary 21,2024 at 7:09PM UTC

   In my LinkedIn experience, I have sought the name of the hiring person/recruiter for as many jobs as possible when applying. To date, in about two years seeking a job, just ONE has acknowledged my inmail by responding. The rest couldn't be bothered.

10. GirlBossanova934974January 19,2024 at 1:31PM UTC

    As one commentator has already stated, you must delete any and all references to your age on your resume. All job experience earlier than 2005-2010 should be deleted. Then you might think about going after the numerous data brokers peddling your age to anyone with a Google search box. I have used a company called DELETEME for $100/year to have them take down all free and paid references to myself. It was worth it. You must keep in mind that employers can and will break the law when it comes to age discrimination.

11. Esther WormanJanuary 19,2024 at 2:50PM UTC

    Hang in there, friend. You might end up having to take a couple part time jobs. I was forced to resign ten years ago, am now in retirement but was able to contribute towards my 401K through the part time positions. Praying for you!

12. AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 3:00PM UTC

    Ageism is real, but most hiring managers aren’t spending that much time during an initial read through to parse out your age. It’s far more likely at the interview stage that those biases will come into play. The reality is that jobs are scarce relative applicants. I posted a new job yesterday and have 200 applicants this morning.

13. Kat ReelJanuary 19,2024 at 3:40PM UTC

    Recently, I found out that my company looks at skills and education first. If that matches what they are looking for, then they move onto the rest of the resume. My company has suggested making sure skills and education are listed first. I did try this. I got an interview and the job. Every company is different too. I hope you're able to find something though!

14. AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 3:47PM UTC

    I don’t have anything to offer other than I am the same age and have the same issue. I do have a job but I’m looking to change. I’ve been reaching out to my network mostly since they know the quality of my work ethic.

15. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 9:22PM UTC

    Same here. Ageism rules the workplace. Been freelancing and working a part-time job seven days a week for nearly five years to keep the bills paid. Neither of which comes with medical benefits. It is getting harder by the day to survive. To everyone who insists on "get out and network" ... for how many years? I am networked out. Many former colleagues and associates in my industry are afraid to offer leads .. they don't want to be pushed out of THEIR jobs. All I can say to the young HR people/recruiters who ignore those of us applying for work with 25, 30 or many more years of experience ... karma. You're going to be well over 50 one day too.

16. Maggie SmithJanuary 19,2024 at 9:00PM UTC

    I think it is the fact that there are less positions than candidates right now. I agree with the poster that ageism comes more during an interview. It is very difficult to get an interview by simply applying to jobs.

17. Terri BeylerJanuary 20,2024 at 1:30AM UTC

    Thank you all for the tips and thoughts on my situation. I am definitely going to do as suggested and remove any positions help prior to 2009 . ( that's the end of 1 and start of another job.) I believe my resume may look like a novel. Just kidding. I would never be untruthful if a application were needed along with my cover letter and resume, but removing education dates and birthdate may give me the extra boost needed. I hope the job market does a turn around soon. I am sure everyone agrees, there is only so much cleaning and closet clean outs that you can do when not working everyday. Maybe 2 part time positions might be the trick. I will at least have the chance to put $ towards my 401K. Thank you all again, I appreciate everyone's responses and wishes for something soon.

    Best Regards,

    Terri

18. Andréa BJanuary 20,2024 at 1:38PM UTC

    Hi,

    I am a career and executive coach and would be happy to help. Please DM me or visit my website at thesecondactconsulting.com

    Andrea~

19. Maggie StoneJanuary 20,2024 at 2:05PM UTC

    Age discrimination is real. If there’s anything that dates you on that resume (e.g a graduation date), then it is a possibility. If you are using a chronological resume, maybe switch to a skills based resume.

20. AnonymousJanuary 23,2024 at 11:43PM UTC

    Is the skills based resume like the functional resume job seekers used to be warned not to use, since it looks like you're trying to hide something aka you're dishonest?

21. Christine MJanuary 20,2024 at 2:07PM UTC

    I was laid off in late August of 2023. I started my new role 1/2/24. I was very selective. Be patient it takes time. A friend of mine was over 9 months to get a new role. She’s starting on 1/29/24. We are both in our fifties.

22. Julie HagerJanuary 20,2024 at 2:21PM UTC

    There is definitely ageism or age discrimination - the sad thing is that the majority of hiring managers are 20 and don't respect/look for / hire those with the BEST work ethic and life experiences to enhance the overall company !

23. SamJanuary 20,2024 at 2:50PM UTC

    Hang in there - I was laid off in October (3 years ago), and it took me until mid January to get several interviews. I was hired in February.

    Make sure your CVV is specific to the position you are applying for (I saved them in folder with the name of the company, along with a cover letter, so I wouldn't get confused...)

    I was 60 when I got the job. You got this, don't give up. We're rooting for you

24. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 7:06PM UTC

    I was 64 1/2 when I got my mid level manager job and 2 years and 10 months later I am still there. Keep your head up and act current and be relevant.

25. Tina AsherJanuary 20,2024 at 2:52PM UTC

    Try not to highlight "all of your years" of employment. Instead of stating 30 years in shipping, state 15+ years of shipping. That way, you're showing longevity without giving them a date that shows your "age". Good luck.

26. Susan AdamsJanuary 20,2024 at 3:45PM UTC

    I am over 60 and list the last 10 years on my resume. With several lay offs, I proudly share my accomplishments while employed and that I have stayed employed even though I have had several roles that were eliminated-no fault of my own. Keep applying.

27. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 4:47PM UTC

    ageism is very real.

28. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 5:32PM UTC

    I understand your frustration. I’m 47 & I’ve been out of work since last June. I applied to many places, had rejection emails & did have one great interview, but the company put the position on hold. I find that when you have years of experience businesses don’t want to pay a higher salary, instead they want to bring in younger employees at a cheaper rate.

    Keep at it & know that you are not alone.

29. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 5:40PM UTC

    hi. I am so sorry about your lay off. that really hurts. i was terminated without cause in 2018, at age57....and I've never been able to completely rebound. Do not listen to anyone who tells you that you were let go because of age; this may or may not be true, but you will WASTE money on attorneys trying to prove this , since 21 others lost their jobs too. Also I hope you are collecting unemployment. Now...here is the bad news: if you were working in a labor-type job (such as shipping/receiving), I doubt you will be able to get a salary/hourly wage similar to what you had at the prior employer. You moved up their ladder, but these types of jobs haven't "moved up" as fast as White Collar America. Also, not sure if you are on LinkedIn, but so many companies are laying off right now, across many industries (I just saw where Wayfair and Macy's are having big layoffs, like 5% of their workforce)--so it's tough out there. I hate to say this but I think it's important to be honest: you may very well NEVER replace what you were making before. Doesn't matter if you are 49 or 59...for these types of jobs, there is a sustainable wage, but NOT GREAT. i trust that you are collecting unemployment, and cutting out all unnecessary expenses. Do not get into your savings, if you can help it. Keep applying everywhere. I believe, in these situations, that your NETWORK will help you get a job more quickly than anywhere else. This is how it worked for me. Someone knew me, and knew they had an opening, and get me in the door for an interview. Applying on the internet sucks and won't get you captured; you're with 250 other people who are clicking the same boxes at home. You gotta TALK WITH PEOPLE and yes, consider other industries. Want to work at the Library? How about Kroger? Post office (they are HIRING), AMAZON? Do you have a college degree? Can you teach or sub?? Make sure that if you get called for an interview, you've got an updated haircut, nice outfit (modern looking), a lil makeup. We don't want to look outdated on an interview. But I honestly think your best bet (and everyone else's too) is WORD OF MOUTH. talk with al of your friends and acquaintances...there's a job waiting for you THERE.

30. SalmonicaJanuary 20,2024 at 6:15PM UTC

    Unfortunately ageism is rampant in businesses!

31. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 7:46PM UTC

    ... and non profits, and government, and higher education.

32. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 6:25PM UTC

    Network with past co workers if you can and use multiple job platforms to search and apply.. The job market is tough at the moment. Check out Jobs/Reddit and you will find many posts of people applying for over 100 jobs. Best of luck to you. Ageism be damned!

33. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 7:40PM UTC

    Look at web sites of large companies near by as not all roles appear on job boards. Also I hate to say it but stalk operations managers of local companies on LinkedIn and send nice intro note and attach your resume asking if they have openings.

34. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 7:45PM UTC

    Yes, ageism is real. I got laid off in Octobee at 65. I'd planned to retire at 70.

35. Marlene HunterJanuary 20,2024 at 8:02PM UTC

    I hear you, I am working part time but I need to qork full time

36. Dawn PerkinsJanuary 20,2024 at 10:24PM UTC

    That has been me since December of 2022....I've done ALL the things and little to no feedback...it's horrible.

37. AnonymousJanuary 20,2024 at 11:46PM UTC

    hello

38. Karen Scott-MalcolmJanuary 21,2024 at 5:12AM UTC

    Is there a skill that is in high demand in your field? Is there a certification that will help improve your resume? As we get older, we tend to get comfortable in the careers we build because we have years of experience and forget to continue to learn new skills that employees are looking for. Maybe you can take a course that will look good along with the experience and the price tag.

39. Jennifer Chickenlittle RubberchickenJanuary 21,2024 at 3:14PM UTC

    For sure take all the dates off your resume

40. AnonymousJanuary 21,2024 at 11:56PM UTC

    I am 66 years old and work 100% remotely as do my co-workers. We have an onsite at a central location for our team. Everyone will be 32-47. Yes they know I am older from working online together but I am really worried about the gravity of them seeing me in person and how it will impact me.

41. AnonymousJanuary 22,2024 at 2:59PM UTC

    My worksite has a small crew of 20 somethings and a woman who is in her early 60s. The younger employees adore her and go to her advice and to vent- both professional and personal. She initially put forth the effort to get to know them, and a lovely relationship blossomed.

42. Monique DiCarloJanuary 22,2024 at 3:13PM UTC

    In exactly the same boat! Also, 59 and laid off last Oct. I only show details of the past 10 years of work on my CV and the rest I combined in a nice summarized section. I've networked and reached out to all possible contacts. I write blog posts to stay engaged. I apply (mostly via LinkedIn) for 8-10 jobs a week, and follow up. I also apply for slightly different titles and industries as I have a lot of transferrable skills. It is getting a little scary, but I've always succeeded. Wishing you success!

43. Terri BeylerJanuary 22,2024 at 8:08PM UTC

    It is scary right now. I have always rebounded. It just seems like it's taking much longer this time. Wishing you the same! Best of luck!

44. Ky Ky JiannineJanuary 22,2024 at 9:09PM UTC

    I am 76, and still working. The older I get the harder it is to even get an interview. so I am stuck where I am. I love what I do (mental health clinician) but the company where I am employed is SUPER-toxic. I won't quit because I believe I wont' get another job.

45. AnonymousJanuary 24,2024 at 11:22PM UTC

    Maybe you can look for another job while working at this one. If you aren’t successful getting another one decide if you can stick this one out longer.

46. Mary WehrleJanuary 23,2024 at 2:21AM UTC

    If you are putting most of your working career on your resume, or the year you graduated, these things may age you.

    If you can keep your resume to the last 15 years or so, it will make you appear younger and you might get an interview.

47. Terri BeylerJanuary 25,2024 at 2:55AM UTC

    Thank you for your input. You are probably right about keeping 15 years of experience listed. I started sending my resume to other positions this week since I do have transferable skills that may work with a new job other than shipping/receiving. Thank you again and thanks to the others that mentioned looking into if any of my training could transfer into another job market