Middle-Aged May Never Get Employed Again

I am one who fits that category, both in age and as of last week, employment status. :BangHead:

Worst case scenario, I just go out and start something...

 

Yikes! I'm coming up on retirement from the military! (couple of years, but hey!)

 

It is tough on us older folk alright. I am 59 years old and have been at my present employer about 6 months. However, I have been in the industry for over 35 years. But, if you are a machinist, as I am, there is a lot of work in Houston, Texas, that is if you can operate manual machines and produce quality parts! This seems to be a lost are in our society, or I might be looking for work now!

 

I wish you well.

My situation is bittersweet. I am grateful to have a job and the ability to operate the machinery, but the work is difficult, hot and dirty. In spite of these hardships, I am grateful to God for allowing me to have this job.

 

I went to the Wendy's drive-through the other day, and the whole front line of workers were 50-plus. It really surprised me, especially as fast food places usually hire college aged kids to work during the summer. It made me wonder if the older workers were having that hard of a time finding a decent job.

 

Several years ago I was looking for employment. I sent a many a resumes out and never got a reply. It really stumped me at first. Back then I had about 35 years experience in my field and put that on my resumes. After thinking about it for a while I come up with the possibility it was age discrimination. So I waited a while and sent new resumes out and said I have over 10 years experience which was also true and they responded. I went in to one employer for a interview and he openly stated that he thought I would be younger. I still got the job but I learned a lesson on filling out a resume. Be honest and but be wise.

 

While it is worth paying attention to but it is also just more alarmism.

Stay on top of the employment game. Don't stick in one place, be willing to move. Seek out other avenues.

Finding a job is like finding a spouse, be proactive. Know how what to look for and go out and find some networking and experiences through your local chamber. If necessary get a part time job or simple hourly job to stave off the craziness and make a little money too.

Obviously this doesn't work for all people but there are jobs out there. The unfortunate thing for many Americans (not every one but some) is that they won't diversify in their job skills. That is vital imho.