New to The Group: I have been dealing... - Anxiety and Depre...

Anxiety and Depression Support

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kcstarr profile image
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I have been dealing with stress and anxiety for a long time, and have learned to live with it. I have tried reading books to deal with it but they do not work.

I am soon to be 59 years old, in very good shape, and can probably [ass for ten years younger. Unfortunately, in late November I was laid off from my job. I have been literally looking every day for a job, and so far nothing. I probably do at least 50 emails, or job applications online per day. I have a fear that the bills are continuing to add up, and come June 1st -if I am still unemployed-I will be having to find a way to get health insurance for myself and my family (My company is playing through the end of May). I try not to take anything, but once in a while when it gets bad I take a pill. It is frustrating to me since I am so qualified for many jobs, and do not get it for whatever reason. I definitely feel age is an issue. I have a reputation for being hard working, and this is what makes this part more frustrating. I appreciate any thoughts anyone can share.

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kcstarr profile image
kcstarr
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6 Replies
Agora1 profile image
Agora1

Don't give up. Believe in yourself. It will happen when the time is right :) xx

b1b1b1 profile image
b1b1b1

My guess is that age is definitely a factor. Try not to take any rejection personally for that reason. You will find something but it may take a little longer and you may have to Make some compromises.

Unfortunately, ageism does exist. I'm in my 40s and a couple yrs ago when I was jobsearching, I read that ageism starts at 35, crazy right? I'm not here to discourage you, but it is reality.So, I'd like to offer a few suggestions. I'm not sure where you are; so most of what I suggest will apply to the US. First, a lot of the first-level screening is done by AI now (esp at mid- to large companies). You need to do a targeted search and tailor your resume to each posting, making sure to include as many corp lingo/words from the posting into your resume. Also, do not include dates of when you got your degree, and only include up to 10yrs of work experience. If you hv relevant experience going back more than a decade, include it under "Other Relevant Experience".

Second, if you don't hv a LinkedIn profile, set one up. It doesn't hv to be perfect. If you get thru the first screening, the recruiters will checkout your LinkedIn profile. (I know I hate this part too).

Once you get pass the prelim screenings, you'll go thru a series of interviews. And at this pt, you need to be prepared and show a lot of confidence. I know it's stressful, but believe me the ppl who make the final decisions are not prof interviewers. So just treat it as an intellectual and regular conversation in a professional setting. A lot of the prelim interviews are done by Zoom now, so make sure you watch youtube vids on how to prep for that. And most defn'ly research the company you're applying for. Once you're at the final stages, that's when they want to see how you'll fit into their 'culture' and goals.

Fourth, expand your search - look at all kinds of industries. Do info interviews - ask ppl about their jobs and if they like what they do.

Lastly, start looking into the unemployment benefits in your state and also how much health ins from the exchange costs - depending on your situation, some plans are affordable.

Most importantly, be vigilant about your stress level. Remember to take care of yourself - get lots of sleep, etc. Don't get discouraged and Good Luck!

designguy profile image
designguy in reply to

Really good advice, and basically what I was going to say, I hope they find it helpful for them.

in reply to designguy

I hope so too

EndUser13 profile image
EndUser13

Welcome to the forums 🙂

Age shouldn't matter as much as your work ethic!

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