Look in the Mirror ~ What do you See?
Agism is only a negative if you believe it.
LinkedIn regularly discusses age bias, citing the lack of interview invitations for older job seekers. “Do you list your graduation date on your resume?” No, I do not. “Yes” is sufficient. I graduated from high school. I hold college credits, plus hours of on-the-job training. No, I do not have a degree.
Old is not how I see myself.
I am older – but one foot is not in that grave! Many of my skill sets are useful to a business. I truly can help a business owner or department run smoother. I am not in the job market to build a career. However, I am there to help you succeed.
“Complaint” “I send out dozens of resumes and never get a call back!”
You probably won’t get a call back. No person reviews resumes. A computer system, AI or whatever software they are using, scans in the resumes and looks for key parameters. If the resume doesn’t mention those keywords/parameters, the system discards it.
Questions to ask yourself . . .
- Are you using AI to create your resume? Let’s get real here. AI and software programs like “ProWritingAid” are “TOOLS!” They are to be used to help your written word take on a professional stance. It will correct spelling, punctuation, a better way of wording the paragraph, etc. It is there to “enhance” your written word.
These tools are great for me. Then, I copy and paste my writing into the software for analysis. I can decide whether to keep the changes or to nix them. My writing should reveal my personality. Not the machines.
- Have you signed up with a temporary service? If not, why not? They test, offer suggestions for improvement, and assist in job placement. It’s a fantastic means for you to discover an organization you mesh with. Their values, their goals, the way they handle issues, etc. You’re a temp. If it isn’t a place that you feel you are a good fit for ~ you can finish your temporary term of employment and seek another
- Have you considered volunteering? If not, why not? How else can you get to know people outside of your own immediate network? You will become known, plus, should the moment suit, you may inquire regarding chances for employment. Not only does volunteering help keep you motivated, but opportunities will start opening up for you.
- What are you reading? I get it. It is easy to get discouraged. Reading an upbeat book, or listening to podcasts like “Entrepreneurs on Fire” will keep you motivated to battle the downturns.
- Look at your local SCORE. They give elite classes at affordable rates or for free. Possibly look into teaching a class. They are always looking for unique talent to help their clients.
- SCORE has “free” mentorship. You could use this opportunity. Especially if you want to start your own business. Their resources are there for us.
- Rather than complaining about the lack of replies, how may you solve this issue? How can you come up with a solution for yourself? I favor, “This firm isn’t the right fit.” I don’t dwell on the negative.
- You show up for an interview; you are on time, but the interviewer keeps you waiting for half an hour. What do you do? Do you stay seated and wait for them to call you in? Or do you get up and leave? The lack of respect and courtesy speaks volumes. Me? I would leave. It isn’t up to me to inquire how long will the wait be.
- If the receptionist comes out to let you know there will be a delay, they offer you an option to wait (with a time frame) or they ask if you would like to reschedule, what would you do? First off, this company values your time. 2nd, if you have the time to wait – I feel it is well worth it. If you need to reschedule, that is also ok.
I believe in giving you examples of scenarios to think about. The way I may resolve an issue may not fit with your personality. I’m working to get you to think creatively.
Look in that mirror my friends. Like what you see. Yes, you are older. Those crinkles you see? They have stood the test of time. They have gotten you through thick and thin. Does the sparkle still shine through those beautiful eyes of yours? Does the mouth curve up in a glorious smile? Walk with confidence, hold your head up high, and pretend you are looking at yourself in the mirror.
What do you see when you look in that mirror?
Article written on Substack ~ Tell Your Story: Captivate, Engage, and Expand Your Reach is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
