I have taken an early-out program at the beginning of Covid, to avoid an involuntary layoff.

Trish Calles Williams

September 12,2022 at 1:16PM UTC

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I have taken an early-out program at the beginning of Covid, to avoid an involuntary layoff. Part of the deal was that I'd be able to apply for any job opening, and keep my original company seniority. I could be rehired upon successful interview. I've applied for many many positions for which I am qualified (a couple, I actually held!!!) I have only been asked to interview for ONE job. I am 58, and I know that my age is what is holding me back. Do I have any recourse??

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Kristie WhiteSeptember 12,2022 at 1:52PM UTC
Changing the game (IMO) is your only recourse. Exiting aging workers is a company strategy that no one ever talks about for obvious legal issues. But it is quite real, I have seen it and spoken with many others who have seen it from within HR. It is a company strategy to reduce costs - higher salaries and higher healthcare costs. Ok so what now? You have to reinvent yourself. You need high positive energy and a welcoming industry. For example, government, nonprofits, small businesses, education, medicine, etc - these industries are more receptive depending on the job. It may be time to let go of the past.
Trish Calles WilliamsSeptember 12,2022 at 6:44PM UTC
I have. I've started a new job, using the skills that I was best at. I'm just sooo sad that I won't be able to get back in the industry that I love so much. Ageism is the last acceptable form of discrimination. It's maddening!
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterSeptember 12,2022 at 2:44PM UTC
While I agree with everything Kristie says, I also want to push back. You say that you know your age is what is holding you back - how do you know that? Has someone said that to you, or are you making assumptions?
Oftentimes, when we think our age is working against us, we act...well, old. Or we act differently, trying to seem younger...which just makes us appear even older.
Annetta MosesSeptember 13,2022 at 7:15AM UTC
You didn't mention your field. The question i have is for your field, are your skills current? Even if you held the position before, has the technology changed such that your skills are considered obsolete.
Since you worked at the company before, reach out to your network. Do they have suggestions for position to which you should apply?