I am interviewing for two positions later this week.

I am interviewing for two positions later this week.

A little background. I have been at my current job for 21 years. They told me in February they would not renew my contract so I would be out of a job June 30 (totally blindsided). Been looking for positions ever since that. I have a very specific skill set (I'm a scientist-Ph.D level) so the job search has been slow. Also, my age (64) is likely a factor. I took all the dates off my resume/CV. They can figure it out from my LinkedIn or from my publications, but I didn't want to make it too easy.

In talking with my husband last night, he said I shouldn't mention in an interview that I am looking at other opportunities, but if a position is offered-how do you put someone off?

One of the interviews is a second one, I made it past the recruiter. But I didn't mention that my job was ending. The position would be 1/2 time and mostly remote so maybe a good transition to retirement? The recruiter asked about my current job-how much time I was there, thinking that taking on another 20 hours would be too much. I said that I could decrease my hours at my current job (I didn't say it would be to zero).

Other interview is the first screening. I have a dear friend at the company who, after I submitted my application, I texted and he put in a "superb" recommendation for me. I'd likely take this one as it would be more $$ but I have no idea if I'll make it past the initial round.

I know I'm rambling a bit but would like other perspectives.

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10 Comments

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  1. Remi Gibbs

    Do you know why they aren't renewing your contract? If it's a funding issue, I think I would just be honest. Or even say you are looking to make a change. You don't have to go into detail. If you are ready to retire and are financially able to do it, I love the idea of part time!

  2. Anonymous

    Since you are highly specialized and at a senior level, I can't believe there are many competitors.

    Great news you have an inside connection. I wish you well.

  3. Cassie Spencer

    Regarding the contract ending I would only talk about that if it's brought up by one of the employers. As Remi shared, if it's a funding issue with the contract share that. If it's something else or if you're not really sure why the contract is ending aim to provide as positive of an answer as possible focusing on what you learned and gained from the role and what you're looking for next. What you're looking for could be less time, using different skills, exploring a different industry, etc.

    Aim to go into each of the interview with a clear idea of what you'd bring to each role and utilize the 20+ years of experience that you have to sell yourself from there the hope is that you have to offers to choose from and you can select the one that aligns with your wants and needs most!

  4. JJ

    I have been verbally told that I was perfect for the job by the hiring manager at the end of an interview and still have not received the offer. You do not have to disclose anything until there is an offer in writing.

  5. Anonymous

    If you are interviewing, you do not put anyone off by saying anything about your search. You make it clear that they are your number one choice and you're excited about the possibility of working with them. Your job while interviewing is to secure the job offer. When you receive an offer but are waiting on a decision from a place you'd rather be, you accept that job offer, delay your start date. If the other one comes through, you keep it short and brief-"I appreciate the offer and opportunity to work with your company. However, I've received another offer that I've decided to accept. I wanted to inform you as soon as possible and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your time and consideration".

  6. Anonymous

    I think you need to decide if you want FT work or PT work, either way get through the - do I qualify part first and when asked about your availability let them know there are changes in your current organization that are making you look around. Don't be specific but be clear that you have strong references when and if needed. Good luck.

  7. Anonymous

    I work in HR and we always ask why candidates are in the job market- if we don’t, hiring managers always want to know and will ask themselves. You have some good advice in the other comments. I just came to tell you to be prepared to say why you’re looking to make a career change- especially after 21 years. It’s up to you on what you choose to disclose. Be confident in your responses and in selling your expertise. Sounds like you would be a great addition to either team. Best of luck!

  8. Evelyn Livant

    I generally don’t mention my job search unless a recruiter asks. Then I tell them I’m conducting a search. If I’m interviewing with another company I tell them what stage I’m at, but I don’t mention the competing company. If facing multiple offers, The advice I got from my mentor is: “I need to take a week to decide if this is the best opportunity for me.”

  9. Anonymous

    If a candidate told me they needed a week, I'd move on to the next candidate with an offer. A day or 2, yes-a week? Now, you're playing games that I'm not going to play.

  10. Dawn McDonnell

    Hi,

    I work in various capacities with people over 55-95. I am 63 in transition myself . Some things to think about. In my professional opinion taking the 1/2 time & then consulting on your own create your own LLC maybe the elixir moving forward. Much to think about in this next chapter. Where you want to continue to live, finances, family , pleasures, desires, health, partner, how to live out your life with energy & passion- whatever that looks like.

    Yes age is part of it but your skills are your skills - no matter what age.

    Maybe take your PHD and write a book - share the knowledge.

    Look up Nancy Schlossberg ( 95)

    she is still working, writing engaging.

    Age Brilliantly website run by Jerry is a lawyer- Psychologist located in NYC Google age brilliantly & get your knowledge out there.

    Yes, this is a transitional stage of life but can be extremely refreshingly free depending on your perspective. The # 1 thing for now & forever is your health physically , mentally & your family loved ones & friends while keeping your mind & ego separated. Be mindful of Medicare sign up 3 months before your birthday-

    There is a definite period of loss when leaving corporate america even going part time. My advice is don’t retire keeperrrrr going and have a plan A, B C & D

    it is often difficult & awkward moving and making so called new friends after age 55. Know this. Retirement when u got bukooo bucks is a different world one has many options for distraction travel, opportunities however getting grounded, knowing thyself and finding internal joy in a world of visual pleasures can make one wonder ….. what’s it all about.?

    Find your meaning, your purpose, stay healthy in mind and body avoid the pharma world & choose your friends wisely . Time is everything and everything matters.

    I wish you the best in your journey.

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