Look in the Mirror ~ What do you See?
Agism is only negative if you believe it.
Mindset . .
An active subject on LinkedIn is age bias. I wanted to delve into this from a different perspective. It isn’t what you are doing wrong; it is all about how you see yourself.
Are you conveying confidence in your expression? Are you scrutinizing yourself, identifying all the flaws?
I believe ageism is an issue, but it isn’t an issue at all companies. If your mindset is; “They won’t hire me, I am too old. They are looking for someone younger.” Then guess what? You are absolutely right.
Being a “boomer” myself, I don’t identify myself being old. I am older, but one foot isn’t in the grave yet! I believeI can help a business owner improve their department’s function. Building a career is not why I’m in the job market. However, I am there to help you, the business, succeed.
“Complaint,” “I send out dozens of resumes and never get a call back!”
You probably won’t get a call back. No one reviews resumes. A computer system scans the resumes and looks for key parameters. If the resume doesn’t mention those keywords/parameters, the system discards it.
Questions . .
- 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. 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 positive articles or listening to podcasts like “Entrepreneurs on Fire” will keep you motivated to battle the downturns.
10 Podcasts for Job Seekers in 2025
Additional Suggestions . . .
- 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.
- “Free” mentorship is another resource for you to use. What an opportunity to work with a successful retired business entrepreneur who can help you overcome any obstacle you face.
- Rather than complaining about the lack of replies, how may you solve this issue? How might you alter the result? What do you need to do differently?
- You appear for your interview. There isn’t a receptionist to check in with, just a note to be seated and someone will be with you shortly.
- Do you get a bad vibe? Do you stay seated and wait for them to call you in? Or after waiting for 20 minutes, do you get up and leave? The lack of respect and courtesy speaks volumes.
- Should the receptionist explain there is a delay, they offer either a waiting period or rescheduling option; what action would you take? This company values your time.
I hope this stirs the thought processes to kick into gear. Examining your own values, your truth, your attitude, confidence, and attributes will absolutely help you gain employment. Ask yourself the hard questions, and answer truthfully. You are the only one who can change your outcome.
Innovation and creativity examples will help you stand out from the masses. If you do what everyone else does, why should a prospective employer hire you? Embrace your uniqueness. If our mindset is negative, excuses outshine the positives — then the interview will have the impact you believe.
Walk with confidence, hold your head up high, and pretend you are looking at yourself in the mirror. Smile!
