Is the job market really that bad for those over 50?
It has been a while since I have looked for a job and especially interviewed so I do not think I will even know where to start if I am laid off. Add to that what I have been reading about people over 50 not being able to find a replacement job anywhere and I have to admit I am starting to worry.
Is it really that bad?
I left Dallas last fall at 57. Headed to the southeast and had 2 job offers back to back. Don’t underestimate the State Farm brand but I wouldn’t linger. It’s eroding everyday. There are opportunities if you can be flexible with location. For those who, like me, knew nothing but SF for most of their career, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’re not valuable. You can still bring a lot to the table.
Duh, They are totally pushing the over 50's out.
I got pushed out. I wasn't in a lay off location (but it WILL happen there) so they made my work life completely intolerable.
Good for them. They didn't backfill behind me and it s---s more and more for the people still there.
Meanwhile, I managed to find a nice gig, closer to home where I will be able to have a life and maintain my dignity.
I read the posts on this topic and it is total BS. Just understand that you have to be flexible in what you look for and know how your skills apply to other companies and industries.
Also, don't allow yourself to overlook an opportunity because you believe it is beneath you.
Forget it. Unless you are top C level type executive, the 'demand' for the over 50 types is just not there. An over 50 looking for the middle manager type positions is going to face a lot of rejection, all with very general reasons (if given) for not getting the position. The big top tier corps are looking for under 30 -women - POC, legal permanent residents etc. Even 40's age are facing a VERY competitive job arena.
Family and friends over 50 job hunting across the US are not having much success. I look around the office here and I'd swear they are pushing the over 50 crowd out.
Ask yourself how many people over 50 has your company hired from outside the company in the last few years? I am guessing that it is relatively few, and most of the people have been new college graduates or younger workers. Age discrimination is real and it will be very tough to get another job when you are over 50.
You are going to face two problems, the first is that you will likely be starting over (if you are so lucky) even in a similar job at a lower salary which makes it hard to be really motivated. The second is that since you will likely have to start over anyway, most companies would rather hire right out of college.
I think that most people know this or at least understand it and there are an awful lot of older Americans out of the labor force, or if they are working, working in a low wage job. Hardly the American dream.