Almost Eight at 58: Job Hunting at Unlikely Years

It was only last year, at the ripe age of 58, that I received my first job offer after an apparently smooth application process. Within just three hours of sending out my CV, I got a swift response from a company. A few hours later, I had a Zoom interview, and the following week, I received an offer. This experience challenges the common misconception that age is a barrier to initiating a new career or job search.

What many people don’t understand is that older age can be an asset. As a woman approaching 60, I've witnessed firsthand how experience can be a significant differentiator. Unlike younger counterparts, I don’t have the time off due to childcare, and I bring insights and skills that younger employees often lack. I received a greater level of respect than expected, possibly due to my vocabulary and the maturity that comes with age. But women tell me that they often do not receive these benefits.

Chutzpah and Confidence

As I aged, my hair and beard turned silver, and I noticed an unexpected boost in respect from others. Perhaps my high vocabulary contributed, but women perceive these changes differently. The journey is one of perseverance and chutzpah – pushing forward despite societal expectations and occasional discrimination.

Realities and Discrimination in the Job Market

The reality, however, is stark. The U.S. is renowned for creating low-wage jobs, and women often make even less than men in these roles. A 2018 AARP study revealed that more than 60% of adults aged 45 and older report seeing age discrimination in their workplace or experiencing it themselves. Moreover, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received over 15,000 claims of age discrimination in 2019 alone.

Age discrimination is not limited to job search; it also impacts job retention. If you lose your job between the ages of 45 and 50 and seek another, your wage might be 20-25% lower than before. Gaps in employment can make it challenging to find new work, and finding a job as someone over 50 is an uphill battle against younger counterparts who have 40 years of work life ahead.

Personal Experience and Legal Challenges

When I applied for an entry-level position, I brought a trove of experience, certifications, and a wealth of contacts. My application was against another candidate described as “cute” and in her early 20s. Despite multiple letters of recommendation and experience within the company, I was not offered the job. The courts have made it virtually impossible to secure a win in an age discrimination case, as employers can easily cover their tracks with vague statements like "the other candidate was a better match."

Unfortunately, the legal system currently fails to provide significant support for victims of age discrimination. Studies suggest that cases rarely go to trial, and when they do, employers are twice as likely to win. These legal obstacles are compounded by a general reluctance to report workplace discrimination, making ageism one of the most commonly reported forms of workplace discrimination, second only to race.

For many women over 50, the job market is a minefield. While there are opportunities, they often require an indomitable spirit and a willingness to adapt to an environment where age is often seen as a hindrance rather than a strength. Just as I found success, many others face a challenging journey. For now, the best advice might be to embrace alternative careers like becoming a ‘Granny Nanny’ or a dog walker, given the limited options.

Nevertheless, my experience proves that resilience and determination can overcome age-related barriers. So, while the path may be rugged, never give up the quest for a fulfilling career. Regardless of your age, you can still pour claret over new beginnings and challenges in the professional world.