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I need advice for the next 20 years.
Copywriting has been my profession and my passion. I have never thrived in a cubicle, full-time environment, so when my position was eliminated at a large corporation 25 years ago, I leaped on the freelance bandwagon. I'll admit that it's always been a struggle to find clients. When I find a great long-term client, changes in their client list, structure, etc., means I'm looking again. I have supplemented my income with two part-time jobs, both of which are a little hard on my body.
I turned 65 this year and realized that most of my friends are retiring, embarking on travel, moving to warmer climates, etc. I have no savings, so not working is out fo the picture.
I know that the full-time workplace environment is nothing like it was 25 years ago. And employers are embracing remote workers. My question is this: What are the odds of me landing a full-time remote copywriter position at age 65? My skills are up to date (hello, ChatGTP), and I certainly don't act my age. Thoughts?
Pamela PattonSenior-level creative SEO copywriter.
78
02/06/24 at 3:51PM UTC
Update: I do have two resumes. One is very graphically designed, the other is a simple PDF. Ideally, I would like to be the go-to for an agency or corporation, building a long-term relationship.
Here's something I didn't disclose: This week I finished a 5-year bankruptcy. YAY! (Bad tax advice, bad incorporation advice. Turns out my CPA was drunk half the time.) My family is after me to take ANY work-from home job, i.e., customer service. I have no spouse, ex, or kiddo.
Amy Miller, Psy.D. - Career CoachCareer Strategy, Leadership, Job Transitions
128
02/06/24 at 11:08PM UTC
I definitely recommend the simple design. The most important thing is that someone (or a computer) can scan/look quickly and the main points jump out at them without distraction. Make sure you have a "professional summary" at the type of that really focuses in on what you want them to think about you.
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachHelping you know your value to get your next job
1.77k
02/06/24 at 12:25PM UTC
You'll only find out if you try! Start applying :) Sounds like you would be a great hire.
Diane Cervenka
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02/05/24 at 9:55PM UTC
Have you ever considered working for a nonprofit writing grants? They are always looking for good writers. If you were freelance, you could work remote.
Anonymous
02/05/24 at 9:17PM UTC
Not a direct response to your request, but my husband switched to an semi-adjacent field at 64, and is still working full time (not WFH) for the state 7.5 years later. We would be OK financially between his SS and VA benefits, but he would be bored out of his mind and I've still got another decade at least, so it's best for everyone for him to remain full time. Good luck!
JJImage | Brand | Communications
2.47k
02/05/24 at 7:06PM UTC
Love this! Not for you but that you are ready to make a change. I think full-time copywriting jobs are fewer in this market, especially facing an odd economy but they do exist. Looking for a job is hard but you have great experience. One thought is to look at marketing and public relations agencies that have clients in the field that you’ve worked in and see if they would hire you full-time to work across multiple clients.
Amy Miller, Psy.D. - Career CoachCareer Strategy, Leadership, Job Transitions
128
02/05/24 at 6:15PM UTC
Hi Pamela! This is a good question. Someone else may be able to give you a better idea of the odds of it working out, but I wanted to suggest a way of thinking about this moment for you and decisionmaking. Instead of trying to determine how likely it will work out, I recommend you first think about what it would be like to have the job and then plan out ("pretend it will work") how you would get there if you decided to try. This may not be a "do I or don't I" question but there may be a few options for approaching the next phase. For example, you may have an option of preparing your job-search materials and reaching out to your network with a clear focus and goal, but not diverting time/money from your freelance work if you think full-time is a long shot. Another option would be to stop everything and throw yourself completely into the job search. The other option is "keep doing what you are doing now." Whatever you decide, I encourage you to stay forcused on your strengths which include experience and maturity, as well as your up to date skills.
