The Ridiculous Reality of Job Hunting After 55

[@paulgilbert4559]

Eureka! I'm 63 and what you describe is EXACTLY what I have experienced since being made redundant at 58. You and all those making comments in a similar situation have made me feel so much better about myself. Thankyou.

[@krystle8534]

Same, it's a great feeling to "meet" others in similar situations.. Hope you're doing well😊

[@justinf1343]

Ageism is rife in the UK when it comes to employment. It’s crazy. People over 50 don’t get pregnant, don’t have child care issues and don’t have distractions that the younger generation have. I’d also say that we take less sick time, and are more reliable.

[@CagedPaps]

You say ageism is rife and then go on to make a series of negative assumptions based on age... So yeah, I guess people such as yourself do think people of a certain age take more sick leave, are more likely to take maternity/paterinity leave, aren't as reliable or just have general distractions.

[@mr-biz]

​@@dfar2303How reassuring for you to know that everything still works.

[@kld5617]

Yeah exactly and full of wisdom us fifty plus can relate to younger people and mature people we're younger people can't I noticed the corporate world is the same they will not pay you what you deserve when they can pay a kid leaving uni min wage

[@lesleyhubble2976]

@@dfar2303you’re a father

[@kdp8133]

@@justinf1343 By their fifties, many have to help care for elderly parents and/or grandchildren, so it kinds of evens out.

[@anyaharris5617]

I'm 52, have a degree, but burnt out. Quit my engineering job, got a part-time job as a sandwich-maker, work only mornings, for British forces, very proud to help our boys! I don't need big money, I've got everything I need.

[@gdwnet]

51 working in IT and hovering on the border of burn out. I get it. I'm considering something similar to you.

[@33wanwan]

@@gdwnet worked in it at age 40. total waste of time , crap money too much stress

[@IngramSnake]

In my thirties, if I didn’t have a mortgage to pay (I’m assuming you don’t have a mortgage to pay or it’s very little!). I would work part time if I could!

[@anyaharris5617]

@IngramSnake I've worked in the Falkland Islands for 20 years, tax-free. You can do the same. You'll be mortgage-free in 5 years and have some savings. There is a catch though: you have to leave the comfort of your home and live practically without shops. Can you cope with that for 5 years?

[@bretthoughton9413]

Is right ,👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻...

[@vevey75]

Age discrimination is a big issue that is rarely mentioned by the media.

[@char2win]

100%

[@yogajaxx8299]

True - and yet plenty of articles talking about the existing and upcoming challenges of our ageing population!

[@fishnchips2423]

Yes, its partly an age thing. If you've got years of experience as well as good qualifications especially if you kept up to date on training then that means they have to pay you a good wage to match it. So 18 to 30 year olds are more likely go accept a lower wage just to get their foot in the door. Most employers don't want to pay the full back mate. Nowadays, you'd be lucky to get a refusal letter/email, they just don't bother to reply. Some employers won't even give you a chance once they see your age. But keep going, maybe you should look at a completely different career, that could be why you can't find a job in your current field of work. Think outside the box, maybe a pastime hobby could end up paying you instead and you'll enjoy it.

[@AuldScot1888]

Indeed. It's rife in UK and the easiest discrimination for employers/recruiters to get away with.

[@Notintheclub]

@@fishnchips2423 I do agree with the points mentioned above but it’s not for everyone to make a business out of hobby. That statement really puts me off. Hobby is something you do after work. The Big issue is the system. And a hobby in many cases is not gonna cover the cost of living. It’s just sad how disrespected the older generations are in general. And I’m just 30. But I do get this guy very well. And the so called new generation has a tendency to be horrible. Horrible as coworkers and horrible at doing their job.

[@PS-Straya_M8]

Same here in Australia. Sadly employers want a 25 yr old to have 20 years of experience!

[@cottawalla]

Workplaces have become so reactive (build it quick and slap bandaids on it when it breaks, or worse) experience isn't as valuable as what it used to be.

[@ronanchan4018]

Should've told them to hire the employees from TEMU factory.😂

[@Notintheclub]

Same in Lithuania. I read many job descriptions that are just against all logics. I.E. • can be a just graduate (and the following point after) • at least 2 years of experience in that field

[@ganbatte1920]

​@Notintheclub that's true. that's insane

[@viviennepastor3188]

Australia is one of the worse countries for age discrimination.

[@robertseddon2512]

Most employers don't like people over the age of 55 because we are harder to bully ,we are usually more financial independence and will not put up with there bull sh* t. They feel threated by are experience and confidence.

[@justkidding9751]

@@robertseddon2512 absolutely 💯

[@brettlowton6961]

100% correct. They are getting more particular and demanding more and people our age can see when we're being conned.

[@MichaelPickles]

Maybe for some. Try to look from the perspective of an employer. Some jobs maybe just to hard on a 55 year old. Also being overqualified for the job you are wanting. They think you will be bored and we'll just move on to another job Normally your CV will have multiple different jobs that you've done over the years. This gives the impression that you're not someone who sticks around. So they feel that if they train you, you will only be around for a couple of years and then move on which this is then time and money wasted for a company. It is illegal for a company to discriminate on age. But not so to pick the best candidate. Out of curiosity I bet your CVs are extensive. In the end it's more do you fit into the culture of the company as well as can you do the job.

[@brettlowton6961]

@@MichaelPickles I spent 23 years at my last job. If that doesn't give the impression of someone who sticks around, I don't know what does.

[@janahaddouch7382]

Yes employers will not admit it but they do not like to employ over 55’s. It is about the culture more than the job often especially if younger more insecure colleagues might feel threatened or less capable

[@Honeychild5555]

I am 58 ,female and working for Uber Eats and Just Eat..better than being employed with a boss breathing down my neck! If I want to stop fir a coffee, go off shopping, have a day off, i can do all that under my terms! No interviews. Yes there is no grand job title to it but I have FREEDOM and I am employed, I get by financially .. having a massive income is nothing compared to my freedom...Im not proud. Good luck anyways.

[@Heinz57ish]

I'm the same age as you and last year I gave up my job in a college to become a taxi driver. I got fed up with the responsibility and continual training for minimum wage plus lack of respect from management. I'm now self employed and earning much more even though I only work 3 hours per day.

[@FHRider-o1m]

Hey, hats off to you, nothing to be ashamed of. I’m a similar age, quit the rat race and work in recycling, enjoying it! 😂

[@1chickenpig]

Well done, do you deliver from your car, scooter or ebike ? The passport office didn't transfer my right to work stamp when I renewed my Kiwi passport over here. When that's sorted I'm thinking of doing the same

[@justinf1343]

Is that why my Uber Eats was cold?

[@1chickenpig]

@@justinf1343 They probably didn't use a thermal bag. Thermal bags are a must for that job.

[@wulliest]

This really boils my pee. We hired a guy who’s late 50’s in the USA as he had a ton of industry experience and is actively helping osmose that into the juniors. He wanted something useful to do before he retires. It’s not a massively senior role but he has a lot of reverent influence on the people in the team.

[@Basman59]

That is terrific. I remember that happening to me way back in the 80's in my 20's we had plenty 40 somethings working teaching us in corporate USA. I was taught that you need to make what you cost x 3. Your cost in salary is a 1/3, the cost of operation 1/3, then the the last third is essentially NIBT and profit. Not hard. I worked under financially stressful goals, essentially NYSE: sales, EBIT, and EBITDA...we had to meet weekly financial projections. 100's millions of dollars of portfolio experience and meeting financial targets is the name of the game of life whether its a coffee shop, a bank, a university cost centre, or for profit NYSE entity. For you to harness his experience is a testament to your ethos and his for that matter. Those youngsters will gain knowledge no degree will ever teach you and a work ethic that is priceless. Best of luck!

[@unitedkingdomoffiveeyes9765]

Are you a project manager by any chance?

[@Etcher]

That is brilliant. Also, love the word "osmose". I'm using that tomorrow on a call ;)

[@PeterRStewart]

I am going to give you some hope, l have a small business in Aberdeen and most of the people that have worked for me have been over 50 when they started. Recently l have had a few media interviews about employing older people. I am 64 myself and it scares me. I am willing to meet you and have a chat for your channel. Do not give up.

[@dubaidozen]

Likewise - I watched the video but not sure how to provide help and support (apart from commenting here)... I am happy to share what I have been doing maybe chatting with you for your channel...? Maybe thats your new job, interviewing people like a video pod cast and asking them about their jobhunting experience... i have seen many people in the same situation as us on youtube and on linkedin and some people have applied for thousands of jobs and still not getting anything... let me know how we can collectively provide support and I am sure you will get many volunteers - it must be inspiring for you seeing all these great comments against your video.. i have already subscribed and liked... :)

[@sillygirl628]

Can I contact you Peter 😁

[@PeterRStewart]

​@@sillygirl628yes you can

[@emr7712]

That is so very kind of you. My experience has been outright ghosting. Oh, wait, 1 recruiter did say I had the skills but, my age is a problem. It's sad really. 😢

[@RachelLouiseSwann]

I expect you knew you would get a few replies Peter! I'm in England, and am looking for work, just to support myself and live a quiet life. Please drop me a line if you think you can help - but do give the channel video poster first pass - he totally deserves a solid chance!

[@harlzAU]

I hear you mate. Here in Sydney, I was made redundant in Sept 2023. Turned 50 in January. It's now been 10 months actively looking. It's enough to drive one to despair.

[@Venmash-kx9zf]

Can you not live on social security?

[@CleoParta1965]

@@Venmash-kx9zfit’s $300 per week and they make you do demeaning work like clearing garbage full time just to get it which works out like $1ph, you cannot live on that, hence most people end up homeless.

[@vovanminh999]

Hey brother, you can apply for for Australia post jobs at posty man, you coud make around 77-80 k a year easy, the job is very relax and the environment is good as well, no boss, job security.

[@harlzAU]

@@vovanminh999 Funny you should say that, I got a forklift licence shortly after my original post. Now I'm currently working at Australia Post as a seasonal forklift operator doing nights! While it's less money than I'm used to, the work is honestly pretty fun.

[@threethrushes]

I was in the U.K. corporate world until I suffered burn out at 39 and was sacked. Classic blessing in disguise. Changed my life 180, and now run my own business in central Europe.

[@slider799]

Corporate burn out is very really and as corps have got a tighter and tighter on people and ever increasing unrealistic demands things are now going sideways where large sections of people are basically on a "go slow". Its part of the reason why teh western work economic situation is stagnant and generally in decline

[@TheDa6781]

what do you do for a living ?

[@turnbacktheclock74]

I lost my job at 50, and it's practically impossible to find work. I've had the unfortunate experience of being unemployed a few times over 35 years. Had my CV updated, applied to over 300 jobs, with 3 interviews, that I drove 150 miles to get to, and got ghosted by all 3! I'm a qualified engineer, with a city & guilds, but companies no longer want experience, but young pretty kids, with 100 college degrees. I've been asked my age 3 times, by agencies and they all ghosted me after that. A huge percentage of jobs advertised are fake roles. Indeed is full of them.

[@linkedinfred]

You're right about the fake roles on Indeed. You may have noticed too the automated rejection emails always arrive at around the same time

[@wulfsorenson8859]

They certainly DO NOT want young kids with degrees for jobs. That demographic struggle the most to land anything. It’s the the job market - we have entered a post Covid silent depression.

[@L1623VP]

After the 2008 economic crash, I lasted through two years of layoffs before my number came up and I lost my job at 40. I couldn't get any response from employers, so I was forced to "hire" myself and go freelance. It's been 15 years now, and I can't believe I'm still able to make a go of it. Even so, it barely pays the monthly bills and contributes nothing to my future or getting ahead. The last time I applied for jobs was about a year ago. As with you, I applied to over 300 jobs in 24 months. I got four responses. It's beyond humiliating being interviewed by people who aren't even 30-years-old who don't know nearly as much about my work and industry as I do. Worse yet, one of those four jobs included two interviews, a written test, and a third interview with SEVEN people, including the CEO, that lasted two hours...and I still didn't get the job. The whole job search process is absolutely soul-crushing, and it's SO different now than it was 30 years ago. Forget about first interview-second interview-job offer. NO ONE actually reviews your resume when first submitted now. It's passed through artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithm systems searching for "keywords" after which you'll get a "relevance" score. IF your score is high enough, you'll get a phone interview with a professional screener who doesn't even work for the company you applied to but was contracted by them. IF you make it past the AI filter and the screener, only THEN will you get your first interview with someone who actually works for the company. What a world we live in.

[@Lindsey-bm1mt]

Have you thought of training and assessing apprentices in the workplace?

[@Strider9655]

Agencies are staffed by "kids" with useless degrees, who all bought into the idea that anyone without was in fact a pleb. I did C&G and BTEC in electronic engineering at a time where industry wanted those qualifications, industry still wants them, but the agencies control access to the jobs and THEY want degrees. I see it from the other side, where I work we can't get experienced engineers, the agencies just send us graduates, but I know the market is full of experienced engineers whoa re just getting filtered out because they don't have a degree and the agencies think that people can't learn new skills.

[@johnbewick6357]

I sold my engineering business in 2005 after 30 years of running it. Decided after a short while that I needed something to do ater all my other interests and hobbies. Decided it was not worth applying for a job because I only wanted to do two or three days a week. I approached a number of local companies offering to do holiday and sickness cover for them. Had some business cards printed and left these. Within a few days I had a phone call asking if I could do a stand in for a week while one of their machine operators was on holiday. That week went very well, I charged by the hour at a rate that was high enough to make it worthwhile to me. Within a short while I had more work coming than I wanted from half a dozen companies, and could easily have done a full six day week, and found myself having to turn work away . I was also 55 at that time. We may get old but we have experience that cannot be matched by young people.

[@motormouthalmighty]

cajonkers!thirty years in showbusiness!you should have been sipping tequila on a beach in Tahiti chatting to Jeff bezos over the phone,threatening to buy him out from Amazon if he didn't pull his socks up!

[@McFlashh]

I think you may be one of the very few people who sell a company and would still want to work a job after that. I'm guessing you sold it for 6 figures and made lots from the income of the business, why would you want to work a job and listen to a boss after that?

[@derekhalford187]

I went through the same pain, once I got into my 50's (I'm now 55) I just kept getting job rejections and felt so worthless. I'm professionally trained in IT and considered cross training into Development and Cybersecurity, but that would take 2 years of experience to really be considered and learning new things at 55 isn't always an easy thing. Anyway, many bus companies in and around Manchester are looking to train bus drivers, so I did a bus drivers licence at Stagecoach in Manchester and started driving buses. A few months later I was offered a software testing role and grabbed it with both hands. Be willing to do other jobs outside of your comfort zone, still an honest wage, until you strike oil with an accounting opportunity.

[@lordprotector3367]

A former colleague of mine did the exact same thing. He was about to start the bus driver training, then he got a BI job locally at another company.

[@Etcher]

This is excellent advice.

[@JonathanPercival-smith]

I had always done my own DIY. At 55 I took a course in painting and decorating. Inundated with work. Chose what i wanted to do part time. Did 2-3 days a week and it left me with time for me. Always courses in tiling, joinery,etc and you will find yourself very much in demand.

[@les9920]

I did exactly the same in 2021 after losing my position due to covid. Now painting part time as that suits my lifestyle.

[@jonnygti]

@@les9920nice one mate. Is that employed through a company, or self employed?

[@Leah-s6p]

I'm a 51 year old female. Renovated my last 2 properties, trained in painting and decorating and done my level 2 plumbing. Have a host of DIY skills now, I also have worked painting new build in the past. Currently I'm renovating my mothers house and making bathroom sink units from antique furniture and fitting them with sinks. I have applied for a few maintenance jobs and decorating jobs in the past and never heard back from them. Instead I started doing painting, decorating and small DIY jobs privately. However now prefer making sink units to sell. Do you work for yourself or are you employed?

[@les9920]

@@jonnygti self employed mate

[@JonathanPercival-smith]

@@jonnygti Yes it was self employed. I dont do it now, I'm fully retired, but I was never short of work. I advertised to start with then after 12 months it was recommendations and people comeing back so I didnt need to advertise any more.

[@steveclayton4249]

Im in the same position. 52 years old Head of Finance last role. 35 years experience. Went for an interview and my effective manager had 6 years Finance experience. He probably saw me as a threat.

[@jumokeomotosho6691]

Of course!

[@threethrushes]

If he were smart, he'd learn from you.

[@MusehanaH]

Having a manager who has low self esteem would be torture. If the manager was self assured, he'd be happy to learn from you.

[@FBICPS]

I worked as a recruiter for 25 years, mostly in the UK. Unfortunately ageism is a problem, it’s often unspoken but it’s real. There comes a point where a 35-45 year old becomes more appealing than those who are 55-65. I’m now also in the same position as you as I am a similar age to you. It’s not a CV issue, it’s age!

[@sherimillman53]

Yes it is but what can we do about it?

[@qeitkas594]

@@sherimillman53 Nothing, it is like this for ages. You just have to prepare that it will happen to you as well. Even at the age of 25 you should know that this point will come to you.

[@marianne8280]

"I, Daniel Blake" I cried when I saw that film. It´s about a man who lose his job and can´t find a new one. The authorities treated him so badly. It´s the same in Sweden.I took out some of my pension when I was 56 because of the situation with work. I have to live frugally but it´s worth it. I didn´t want to ask for job anymore and feel like nobody.

[@GiovanniMazzeo-r1n]

I understand what you are saying,sad to say the film 'I,Daniel Blake' is realistic.I have worked various jobs over the year's and i have seen people being treated bad but alot of people lack the confidence to take a chance and try to find an alternative job or way out of their situation.I am also starting to take some pension money early(i am 58 ) so i do not have take poor paid jobs.I am a contractor so i only work if the pay is good and the company treats me with respect otherwise i rather not work at all!I am too old now to put up with idiot manager's or other idiot's in a workplace!

[@dreamclaw00]

​@@GiovanniMazzeo-r1nthat was made in Newcastle upon Tyne here where I live. It was amazing and showed just what our lives are like here

[@pag1413]

I know how you feel ! Made redundant in 2007 after 25 years working all over the world then you are not worth a job anywhere??? Some guy gave me an interview & told me "Don't like working with old folks? Did the same as you!

[@TheSewingHub]

I was interviewed for my story as a single parent, the rise of single parents having to do whatever to get by while society looks on and judges you it would shock most people if they knew how bad society has gotten let me tell you there was no help for me when I needed it, it's all smoke and mirrors uk is finished doesn't matter if you stay in devolved areas the problems exists

[@Etcher]

That film was one of saddest films I've ever watched.

[@BarryGibson-e6x]

After redundancy I got my hgv license and CPC now working for Royal Mail and its brilliant

[@scottlazar6376]

At what age did you do your HGV licence? Was it fairly easy to pick something up without any HGV experience? Thanks!

[@BarryGibson-e6x]

@@scottlazar6376 I had a lot of experience with me being a hgv mechanic but only had a class 2 license and never drove class 1 on the road. I took my class 1 three yrs ago at the age of 50 but did take few yrs of driving them including writing a car of before I was confident

[@trilbies]

Am 58yo been self employed since 2003 currently being a handyman since 2012 full time. Love it. I struggled to find work at 46. So my wife said "why don't you become a handyman " never looked back. Love the job and no boss to argue with...

[@lifetimeskills]

The best decision. Keep at it.

[@JeffDublinIreland1968]

well done my friend.

[@fulconerra3055]

Do you make a decent income? Compared with previous situation?

[@trilbies]

​@fulconerra3055 Yes I do. To make the same pay that I had when employed only takes me 20% of the same time... so I don't work too hard and have plenty of leisure time. However because I love what I do I don't really work now...

[@fulconerra3055]

@@trilbies that’s great and reassuring to hear!

[@sgaddu]

You seem like a natural on camera! You're engaging, trustworthy, and entertaining. I really enjoyed this video. It would be great to see you expand your channel and share your accounting expertise. Maybe you could do videos explaining specific accounting concepts or talking about the interesting (or not-so-interesting) sides of the field. This could be a great way to build a following and even turn KZbin into an income stream.

[@MissE333]

Great advice. I was thinking he has a great attitude considering his situation.

[@lemonke8132]

He says um constantly

[@Mir-wx5ui]

I agree! This is the best advice I have read in this comments section!

[@JeffDublinIreland1968]

Yes mate. I'm Jeff from Ireland. I was laid off last year in June. I turn 56 soon. I have applied for 2842 jobs online through direct emailing and recruitment companies. I'm a father of 3 children. Worked in Engineering, Project management and Operations management. I've had a few very positive interviews and honestly thought I had the jobs. But on 2 occasions I received a call from the HR person who was very upset with the companies choice not to employ me. They agreed I gave a great presentation and informative interview but the managers interviewing felt that I was more experienced than them and so didn't want me around the directors. Next week after many many months of struggling and exams I will be self employed as a Taxi man. Never thought I would ever move from Corporate big business to end up being a Taxi man. I will need to work until I'm at least 75 to clear the mortgage. There is 100% an issue with my age and experience so just gave up on looking and from now on ill only answer to myself. Best wishes to all on here.

[@Martin-ei9ek]

Good luck mate from England 😊

[@colin6673]

Best of luck from a fellow Irishman 👍 Is there much up front cost to becoming a taxi man. I've thought about becoming one for a long time, I was a self employed delivery driver and loved the self employed aspect of it

[@Lexington125]

Good luck Jeff from London - same boat !

[@FHRider-o1m]

@@JeffDublinIreland1968 cheers and well done 👍 Perhaps edit your post and remove your date of birth tho, that’s your personal info x

[@fordhill6646]

I would say, that is the best decision you made in life, driving a Cab is better than most corporate jobs

[@masteryoda498]

Ageism is rife here in Australia as well, I’m an unemployed 55 year old man with close to 30 years in the finance industry, but here in Australia the ageism starts when your 40. Although it’s illegal to discriminate to against older workers, laws are only as good as they are enforced, and they are not enforced at all.

[@diabeetus5052]

Wasn’t expecting to see a high level BP content creator on here. Just having a sticky I guess

[@marievel929]

Companies dont realise that 60 is the new 40. No child care, loads of experience strong work ethic, committed focused and serious bout life. May be a few years left in us but less sick leave and not seeking to climb the ladder of success. We seek to be active and live well.

[@ramtom9882]

Ive hot a new colleague, she just turned 60. I see signs of memory issues, so I checked her every work. Moving forward, should I tell my manager of her age-relate issue or not. Dilemma.

[@vernonwhite4660]

And 80 is the new 60😊

[@Jade-jd8qq]

@@ramtom9882 Unless she’s a nurse or something, I.e people’s lives will be at risk - mind your business.

[@Jade-jd8qq]

@@marievel929 60 is not the new 40.

[@tomfenn7149]

It's not just us oldies (I'm 57), but my daughter too who is 18 is finding it very hard to get a job. I blame agencies such as 'Indeed' for being over archaic, poorly managed and often they advertise vacancies that have long shut.

[@NeilMendham]

Agencies, and agents, are a huge part of the issue. They are like real estate agents - they have somehow defined a function in their particular sector and now dominate. The result is high turnover and low loyalty. Easy for businesses to "prove" they've used some methodology in their hiring process, but they are missing a key element - personability.

[@JasenomadeTV]

Yes, job hunting over 50 can be incredibly challenging. My husband is 53 and was a high earner, but he hasn't been able to find a contract since 2022. He had to pivot and has now converted to trading. He was also a contractor. At 51, I've faced similar difficulties securing a contract and often encounter the issue of being overqualified, so I am now freelancing. We're in the UK too, and even our next-door neighbors and friends are in the same situation, so you’re not alone. Thank you for sharing this x Good luck

[@Michael-i2q5g]

@@JasenomadeTV IR35 changes in 2021 playing out predictably enough with the end of the contract market

[@akeelahmed3936]

You're not too old. You're a well-spoken and seemingly intelligent person that has lots to contribute. Contact your local adult learning service - they have opportunites for all and are on your side.

[@akeelahmed3936]

@starbarhippo1989 Not at all. People need to be made aware of avenues of help available to them. There are lots of good jobs - the door is firmly shut for those who need them the most.

[@playpianotoday6223]

I feel your pain. My brother is in a similar situation in Swindon. The national news is that there are is a need for qualified workers and many vacancies but that, at the same time there are millions of people ‘choosing’ not to be part of the workforce. There is something wrong with the official narrative I’m sure. Hope your KZbin channel is successful - you’ve made a great start!🎉

[@Raetalkss]

This video almost brought me to tears! The job market is not the best at the moment, have you thought of looking at hospitality, health or transport. They may not be the best but the seem to be hiring all ages.

[@jimburnside9196]

I'm 63 a plumber went for two jobs 3 weeks ago and got offered them both... obviously being a plumber helps

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

Plumbing is a shitty dirty job that noone want to do ....that's why.

[@viviennepastor3188]

Trades can get any jobs no matter what age. It’s a supply and demand issue. My grandfather was a carpenter and joiner. He could make anything. Unfortunately in his time they were paid a pittance. He begged me to go to university. I’m sorry I took his advice.

[@markrainford1219]

Are your knees still up for it? lol

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I am a year younger and still get offered work but not like it was 20 years ago.

[@FHRider-o1m]

I was feeling old in my late fifties, and suddenly couldn’t face another politically correct team building exercise. So I quit, and started working for the council recycling team, out on the trucks, early start, walking miles emptying bins in every weather. Maybe I’ve lost the plot, because it’s tough and filthy sometimes, but I’m fitter, happier, and more relaxed than I have been in years. I’m not the only one there with a similar story. They’re crying out for drivers. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! 😂

[@jmw0368]

Well done mate….and that sounds like a great job to me!

[@kenthigginbottom8958]

Completely agree, I did 30 years in Sales and Management, I now work in a factory, it’s not easy but no more sales targets, no more difficult phone calls, no dealing with the public, no hassle or problems out of work hours, I may have dumbed down I’m not sure but I’d never ever go back.

[@kenthigginbottom8958]

PS yes I’m 52 and applied for hundreds of jobs after being made redundant and mainly heard absolutely nothing back at all, I used to joke I might as well bin my cv and 30 year work history and say I’m an armed robber just out of prison, I couldn’t have had a worse response to my applications.

[@pinnacle1717]

“Team building” what a crock of!

[@stuartgeorge2324]

I'm 54 need a new job the council bin job I thought of trying 👍🏻

[@SG3-wd40]

My wife quit her job 2 years ago had 4 jobs since and is now a postlady she loves it. Gotta make your own luck !!!! Shes 58

[@SG3-wd40]

@starbarhippo1989 I'll be telling you it's better than scrounging or waiting for everything to fall in your lap , I'm also self employed and have been for donkeys years . .. I also make my own luck !!!

[@silondon9010]

Royal Mail works people to death in 2024 😢,terrible company now

[@siena9594]

I've been a contractor for many years too and very familiar with that 'oldest person in the room' feeling... the disturbing thing is it's not the younger members of these teams that harbour and exude the ageist prejudices... it's the f**in senior members and leadership team who treat you the worst

[@videostoviews2262]

There is definitely a market for this type of content!! New Sub. Thanks.

[@garrettenglish5555]

You could maybe put on your CV (as I do), that you’re really into developing the younger folk in the organisation. I’m 53 and just got a new job which I started last week. They always look at that as a positive!! Good luck with the job search mate! Fingers crossed for you!

[@lordprotector3367]

Are those tattoos real?

[@linda-nl8ib]

I am the same 56 I cannot get a job Their are scared of you With experience and confidence Scared shitless Very scared

[@WhammyBamber-wn2jv]

And you have the backbone with a memory long enough not to put up with other people's sht.....that's why ...

[@GiovanniMazzeo-r1n]

i agree i talked to an old man who worked in B&Q and he got messed about with what hour's he can work each week but he was in semi-retiremnet so he didn't care,i would not let manager's treat me like that,i am a contractor so i expect to be treated with respect otherwise i don't take a contract job!I don't like manager's in general because most of them are useless and are yes sir men!

[@WhammyBamber-wn2jv]

@@linda-nl8ib and usually narcissist types....they have employed.these.type.of.people in management and it's destroyed work places ..period.

[@WhammyBamber-wn2jv]

@@linda-nl8ib and wow ...my respond has been deleted

[@Born2007]

Can you drive? Have you looked at Trade Plate driving? It’s basically delivering cars for the motor trade and then making your way home. They wouldn’t hire me because I’m under 55, so if you’re of the age, you might be in with a shot? I’ve seen trade plate adverts stating they only hire 55+!

[@ChristopherCroft-mg5kv]

A very well articulated video and wish you every success for the future.

[@happygrecian5607]

I had to give up teaching when I was 53 after 30 years in education, nearly 20 of them as a headteacher, resulted in overwhelming stress, anxiety and burnout. I drove a delivery van for Sainsbury’s, then moved up to 7.5 tonne lorries, then got a class 2 HGV licence last year and now drive an 18 tonne lorry delivering palletised goods. It’s not where I saw myself 10 years ago, but I’m fitter and far less stressed than I was, and probably earn as much as many teachers with far less hassle. Get and stay fit, invest in yourself, retrain for a job where there are shortages regionally, then do your best and work hard. Good luck!

[@martynlewis9020]

My wife is an FE teacher, the stress of the workload is unbelievable. She is on holiday just now but is sat in front of her lap top, as I’m typing this, completing a H & S course.

[@petersimpson633]

Dude, I graduated in 1990, in a recession and ended up temping as a drivers mate for Federal Express, sleeping overnight sometimes in the back of a lorry. Even then, I get not even contemplate a PGCE, as I knew teaching was too hard a job for the money, kudos to you for your service

[@fenixfp40]

I’ve been in a similar situation at the same age. Employers really don’t want to employ our age group. This is born out when they ask ridiculous questions like “what are your ambitions?”. Well at 60, my ambition is to live long enough to retire.

[@Rickgsx33]

I have to comment...THANK YOU..!! This made me Laugh Out Loud... or as the kids say...LOL... I'm 57 and I'm right there with you..

[@pincermovement72]

I’m in the opposite position, in a job at 55 that pays really well but the company treats you awfully. I raised a grievance after it became untenable which is going to tribunal after a sham investigation. I know all I will get now is crap till I retire , no training or progression, or I can leave , earn half as much if I am lucky enough to get a job. I have little pension, house nearly paid which I have considered selling so I can leave but the money would run out before I’m getting our lousy state pension. I feel trapped in a job I hate but see no way out even though I try to convince myself I’m lucky to have a well paying job . Once in your 40s you’re not wanted , in your 50s you are positively discriminated against . At least your profession will have allowed you to earn a decent amount for many years and have some options whereas many low skilled are skipping meals to pay rent.

[@garethadams9610]

I’m a 44 year old solicitor so I expect a similar experience in the coming years. Keep trying. I would find you easy to work with. You have a good personality and someone will snap you up.

[@TolouseEmpire]

This is exactly the kind of content I’ve been looking for thank you, likewise as you said, my feed is filed with Americans talking about the job market but none of uk, thank you for uploading, subscribed

[@stevenrichardson4659]

I am 58 in Australia,had to reinvent and work from home. I will never again work with or for 25 to 45 age group. Good luck Mate 😊

[@The-Mother-Tree]

There’s mental health discrimination too, I’m worried my medical history will follow me. Nice to hear your sound buddy ❤

[@edwarddavenport9881]

I’ve worked in the recruitment industry for 14 years. Here are some things to try: 1. Put as many key words as you can on your CV. Most recruiters are lazy and hitting ctrl f. 2. Fully utilise LinkedIn. 90% of recruitment is done there now. 3. Don’t put your age on the CV. Be honest if they ask but just try and get the meeting first. 4. Don’t make the CV too long. 2 pages max. Long CVs KILL your chances of an interview. 5. Leverage your network and try and get intros through people who know you.

[@jim586]

That’s excellent advice.

[@davidkmatthews]

And make sure that your CV and interview includes lots of pretentious, vacuous, management psychobabble words such as "leverage". ;-)

[@davidzof]

6. leave off any experience more than 10 years in the past, chances are it is out of date anyway. Who cares if you developed the original Multics system? Or worked with Tommy Flowers?

[@Mir-wx5ui]

LinkedIn is useless for a lot of sectors moreover in many jobs, you have to fill out very long application forms listing everything from your exact date of birth to your complete job history + your graduation dates and if you lie and are caught, you can lose your job/not be hired. If you don't fill out the info on the application form, you can't save the form and enter your application. Your advice is outdated or works only for some sectors.

[@keziasarah]

6. Don't pander to tight trousered recruiters with 3 weeks experience. Use your circle of friends and many years worth of contacts to get work... (And the recruiter doesn't get the 20% commission)

[@juliestapleton589]

People could consider going self-employed. It's humble, but there is always a demand for lawn mowing, window, house cleaning, dog walking, and being a helping hand to the elderly. Doesn't take a huge amount of investment, quick and easy to learn the basic skills, good rate of pay, choose own hours, don't have to dress up, choose each job, work at a reasonable pace, etc. Hope this helps.

[@briancumpsty4205]

Totally agree been a self employed gardener now 13 years

[@kdp8133]

Well we have an aging population and within that, there is a huge demand for a lot of the jobs you mentioned. I’m disabled now and despite having carers coming in, I employ a cleaner and two dog walkers and by word of mouth too.

[@markbolam1383]

after suffering age discrimnation set up my own business oven cleaning

[@johnbeaven8951]

Great comment, totally agree. I am 60 , self employed and wouldn't have it any other way. I couldn't and wouldn't take any bullshit from some Thatcherite jobsworth half my age. Anyone who has practical skills should be fine, I build furniture and do general repairs etc. Most people under 40 , male and female don't even know what a screwdriver is, unbelievable but true. Good luck people there are openings out there.

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

Why is being self-employed 'humble'? For many people having their own business is a massive lifetime goal. Being self-employed is the complete opposite of humble, it's being bolshy and proactive and making your own way in the world.

[@akoola7853]

I'm 57. I left my last job of nearly twenty-five years and went to university to do a law degree. After failing to find any useful employment (over qualified, apparently!), I ended up working in a cheese factory doing a back-breaking job. I lasted five days. I stopped for a moment to stretch my back and was yelled at by a young Polish guy. I took my work coat off, handed it to him and left. All I could find was crap agency work; minimum wage, back-breaking work, no dignity or respect and certainly no job satisfaction. I spent a career saving lives and decided to diversify to continue helping others. I took my occupational pension early and scrape by with my dog. However, high cost of living is making that much harder now, so I am looking for a part time job to make ends meet. I certainly don't mention the law degree... especially the part where I concentrated on employment law.

[@WillyJunior]

Are there really no employers that are interested in your law degree? Seems like a very useful degree to me

[@akoola7853]

@@WillyJunior To become a solicitor I would need to complete the modern equivalent of the LPC (Masters) and then find a contract with a law firm. Jobs in law are highly competitive and sought after. I am happy where I live. To stand a chance I would have to be prepared to relocate. Many law firms ask that paralegals (these were once unqualified roles and paralegals are far cheaper than fully qualified solicitors) to have a good law degree AND an LPC. When I mention the law degree in any application or CV, I often hear that I am over qualified? During the coughdemic I reapplied for a position with my old employer. They would rather put lower qualified, and therefor less expensive, bums on seats. A recently qualified student paramedic is far less expensive than a qualified and experienced paramedic. I later learned they were also using student medics from the MOD. They often worked with us on placement to gain knowledge and experience. That was/is great news for the Trusts. Free labour... as these people were being paid by someone else. Ambulance services were keen to see old lags like me leave. There are a plethora of young student paramedics that would do the job for far less money and when they are burned out and leave, there will always be more to fill the seats. It won't be long before there will be very few 'experienced' paramedics left. I think the same thing happened in teaching.

[@gefleigh4264]

​@@akoola7853thank you for your years helping people in need, a very stressful job mentally, and physically, I have learnt to late in life, sadly, work smarter not harder, iv seen lots of chancers, bluffers,and bone idle relatives of staff members promoted, and the willing horses bearing the weight.

[@mikecorrigan763]

Your comment really struck a chord with me! I also did a law degree in middle age. I even graduated with a first class honours after putting massive efforts into my revision. I assumed that it would act as a golden ticket and would open all kinds of doors for me. How wrong I was. It was more of a poison chalice (perhaps employers felt intimidated by it?!) so I ended up omitting it from my CV and I've had to settle for menial, low paid work ever since. I feel deeply embittered that I was never able to pursue a career in law because I couldn't afford the fees for the LPC or BPC, especially when I help friends out with their legal issues and they say "you would have made a great lawyer"!

[@lechmocny1]

I would like to apologize for that Polish guy.

[@harrysahota4072]

I think the issue of ir35 has also disrupted the employment market as companies don't want the potential liability

[@JoelStamp-p5w]

I'm in my mid-50s, and have decided with another friend who is also above 50, looking to set up a consulting business, so as to get round this ageism nonsense! So, I totally resonate with what you saying in your video.

[@black8art]

If no-one is willing to GIVE you a job, ....MAKE A JOB! Self employment, even if it'd only making a hobby your job, is MUCH BETTER than grovelling for employment for someone just FILLING THE POST! It may not pay what you're used to, but the SATISFACTION of doing something you enjoy, AND managing a better work/life balance, is something you will never understand until you DO IT! YOU'RE NEVER TOO OLD TO START AGAIN! My brother just put the family business in mothballs, and at FIFTY, started training to be a nurse! IT CAN BE DONE! ....You just have to be/think like an "ALPHA"!

[@dallysinghson5569]

Ahh yes make money doing what you enjoy... Which is...?

[@ichrismoku]

The most simple kinds of self-employment measure up very well to even high-mid tier "regular" jobs. There is a lot of unpleasant office stuff that can be sidestepped, a lot of unwanted pressures and responsibility you don't have to take on. 100% agree.

[@Etcher]

I worked for myself in my 30s for ten years. Toughest ten years of my life. Forget about making any money for year 1 and 2. Don't mean to rain on the parade but self-employment is hard - if you get it right it is wonderful but it is a 24/7/365 job for the first few years.

[@lodersracing]

All the best with your You Tube channel and job hunting 👍

[@rawaxis]

I'm 55 and been out of work since 2020. I've given up looking and live on UC and food banks. It's ok, my mortgage is paid and just have a very simple life now. Ageism is real.

[@stephenhookings1985]

Regarding UC. I said in an earlier comment my brother was on UC and this flipping journal thing - write to it or we take your benefit away. From what I could see the case workers didn't have time to read and reply / be helpful - it is difficult to blame them and surely the AI / data analysis can check / verify the extent of ageism? Someone in DWP eun some Adobe Analytics and make a policy to address this ageism if found to be true?

[@keithparker1346]

​@@stephenhookings1985 ive been on and off universal credit over the last 4 years and whenever there is a voluntary (but uts really compulsory) group thing involving long term unemployed invariably its men over 50. When i did find a job and got quickly dismissed from it i was asked by my job search advisor if i felt i was discriminated by age as i was given a flimsy reason for ending my contract. Ironically i dont think it was down to age (though i was one of a few old people working there)

[@Dave-wh3hw]

Won't you lose your benefit if you don't find work.

[@keithparker1346]

@@Dave-wh3hw in the UK we don't pay benefit temporarily, we pay as long as needed...but you can get sanctioned where they can reduce or simply not pay you for up to 3 months iirc if you do anything to convince them you're not looking for work

[@DebraSpeer]

And yesterday I heard on the news that Liz Truss is advocating for us to work until we're 80!!! We can't even get offered a job in our 50s, it seems from reading about people's experience in the comment section. Dream on Liz Truss!

[@dcanmore]

Truss and her ilk want us in the fields for minimum wage until we drop dead, the money the Government saves in paying the farmers will be made back by not being alive to pick up a pension.

[@stephenhookings1985]

And she/Kwasi were instrumental in crapping up the economy too - plus her 45 days of PM gift her a decent salary for life.

[@Nik-8it5p]

Politicians are so detached from the real world. Both Red and Blue. Useless!

[@wearenotalone22]

Typical of politicians that they can screw up the finances then make the public pay the price.

[@wellybobs4403]

I say we should NEVER stop working even volunteer work will keep you sane and get you out and about with people. We are social creatures. Its in your DNA.

[@tedrenard472]

Yes mate. I've had it all too. 22 years as an IT consultant, applying for jobs and attending interviews is expensive, especially travelling from the South West (Cornwall, the jobs desert). I've been told the same thing, great experience blah blah, you fulfill all of the requirements but you don't fit into our "workplace demographic". It's always a recruitment agency, never the actual company, and always a foreigner who is feeding back to the government that we have to import my skills from their countries. I've turned my back on IT, and now work in retail, (a boat chandlers), minimum wage and zero future/prospects/life or job satisfaction. Fed up to my back teeth of being discriminated against in both racial and ageist terms by people and organisations that aren't even domiciled in the UK for tax reasons. I suspect it's a top down instruction, much reinforced by the advent of Smarmer, that we are seen as the Brexiteers and are thus to be disappeared in terms of opportunity and income. I'm aware of several instances where people of immense value and skill have had to train groups of foreigners in their jobs, which are then exported and the English employees dumped, with subsequent loss of income, housing repossession and relationship/family breakdown. As ever, it's usually men, who usually tend not to speak out, but there is an undercurrent of simmering resentment and fury in the UK which is never far from the surface, and when it finally does come out it will bring this government down.

[@Jade-jd8qq]

Wondered when I’d see it’s all the foreigners fault.. grow up & wake up. Not a smart man @fadetogrey to like such a comment. Do you really want employing?

[@kdowd161]

Lets see, the Tories were in power since 2010 and you blame Starmer who has been in power for at least few weeks now...

[@stuartgeorge2324]

Im 54 been in construction tarmac etc 22 years i feel its time to move on i feel im getting to old for it , imo its a young mans game , i have never had a job interview in my life, i dont know where to start ? Its all changed so much since i was looking for a new job , i wouldn't mind working for the council in the bins recycling etc im a fast walking reasonably fit and able for my age , great channel 👍🏻 new sub

[@edfatheroftwomendavid4399]

I hear you my friend. I worked very consistently as an IT contractor from 1997 until November 2022. I didn't get a job from then until August 2023 and things were very hard. It wasn't a high paying job and I had to sell all of my personal items to survive. I didn't last long in the job, finishing at the end of November 23. I got a new job at the end of February 24 and was due to start the beginning of April. The time during the long non working period, I didn't realise but I caught Long COVID. This culminated in me ending up in hospital over Easter 24 with pneumonia. So I went from being a healthy, fit man who exercised regularly to a wreck physically and mentally. I would say to you from my perspective to go out and walk every day. The damage of sitting in your home and looking for a job can damage you mentally first and then physically. Stay strong in your mind and keep an open attitude to trying something else from a work perspective because you have transferable skills and maybe try some side hustles from the internet. I have started my new job and I am grateful to God for this opportunity. Good luck and don't give up.

[@stevenclarke2565]

100% - I am 68 and cannot get a job . Have tried for the last 2 years. I have a great CV, MBA and BSc and all that and corporate career in top blue chip companies, but at this age no one is interested in me. Like you I found it really easy to get interviews mostly through recruiters all to no avail. I've started my own business in renewable energy and organic horticulture and am very busy - hoping it will pay off before I run out of money!! Good luck with your job hunting

[@valuetraveler2026]

wish you the best of luck. Corporate culture is for slaves

[@misscoutts6193]

Why do you need a job at 68; you are on your state pension now and maybe a small private pension also? No wonder the government keeps putting up the retirement age when some people want to keep on working forever!

[@stevielangdon8565]

I agree, why do you want a job at 68, you should retire and leave jobs for younger people and I agree with the reply above, no wonder the government keep raising retirement age thanks to people like you😡

[@harbster2]

I'm 55 and work in IT. The job market is completely dead at the moment. Lot's of former colleagues are currently out of work and can't find anything.

[@abdulahiconsulting]

Document your journey as this gentleman is doing, create community and see what comes next.

[@tancreddehauteville764]

I second this. I'm a test manager and there is simply nothing out there for me. A few roles in the City for which you need relevant experience but that's it. Since 2000 companies have been harvesting Indian staff over to the UK and that has slowly killed the IT market by lowering salaries and destroying the careers of UK nationals in the industry.

[@davideyres955]

If you remember Labour introduced the “skilled worker” visa and a ton of non UK entrants came into the industry and I’ve interviewed a hell of a lot. Mostly their interview ability didn’t match their CV and qualifications. It’s almost like they had someone else sit the exam for them 😉 I had the same experience trying to get a role when I was out of work despite having a ton of experience and qualifications. Out for over a year at one point and nearly lost my house. Salary went down by 2/5ths. Retrained and went down another route paid off mortgage and started building up my pension. Hopefully will stay where I am for a few years.

[@user-Wojciech]

@@tancreddehauteville764 I worked in Lloyd's Bank IT, their Indian contractor hire programme went full speed ahead in ~2016, they've started bringing loads of them over to the UK. My contract was terminated in 2018.

[@tancreddehauteville764]

@@user-Wojciech Yes, they get them because they're cheap and will work 24/7 365 days a year as they're desperate to stay in the UK.

[@mikeolly67]

I’m 57. I left school in 1983 with one O level in metal work, and went on to serve an apprenticeship as a fitter, I left that job to be a car salesman in 1988. Since then I can honestly say I’ve never had a career plan, I’ve ducked and dived all my working life and been self employed for the past 30 years. Not blowing my own trumpet but I now own 3 rental properties that give me an income, and I also have a business erecting signs, which is sometimes busy and sometimes not, so I paid to get my hgv license , hiab qualification, and crane slinger and crane supervisor, that’s given me multiple strings to my bow. I’m constantly busy because all my eggs arnt in one basket. I now get offered crane work and driving work on an adhoc basis every week . I think being able to diversify is the key , nobody I do work for ,could care less how old I am, they know I’m dependable and get the job done.

[@Musicch-gi8ej]

I agree - diversity enables you to adapt with the times and this is why I believe in continuing education.

[@MegaAndygo]

Couldn't agree more, I started my own engineering business aged 25 , in my mid fifties now and my first business goal was to diversify to not be reliant on one sector. I've been contracting on many projects, automotive, aviation, civil, owned a renovation company and off the back of that also have a rental property. After learning and utilising CNC work on various projects, bought my own laser cutters and have a laser cutting facility, have also worked for the entertainment industry, theatre design, fibreglass display work, signage, etc. The more strings to your bow the better, especially as a business, enables you to survive.

[@24-Tesh]

Thanks for sharing your story. I have worked in IT for banking systems for over 25 years with a background in AAT, I thought it would be easy to find a new position after having a break for 6 months. I have not had one decent interview. Finding it tough for even basic admin jobs.

[@KentManOnBike]

Im 57 and work as a lecturer in engineering. I'm absolutely certain that if I lost my job now I would never get another in the same field. I have applied for many similar jobs at other institutions and don't even get a thanks but no thanks reply. It seems to me that HR employ staff based on equality and diversity but conveniently forget about ageism. We have not employed a single white over 50 male as long as I can remember. Something needs to be done about this. Well spotted.

[@bertielikesbeer]

Trust me, black and brown people are being discriminated against same way.

[@davestevenson9080]

@@bertielikesbeer They definitely are not !

[@BigBrother04]

​@@bertielikesbeeryeah. People think if u are black u just walk in. 😂. I lost a job in September last year. Took me 5 months and lots of applications to get another job ...and the new job pays way way less.

[@bb001a]

I'm 57 I bought a cheap manual box truck at auction. I move stuff for people. There are all sorts of niche areas and specialisations you can get into. If you're still fit you get paid to work out, fresh air and variety, every job is different. You will quickly pick up more work than you can handle by word of mouth if you are good value. Also a truck is plan B if you become homeless.

[@onlytm981]

Great comment. Thank you

[@cdfloresnunez]

The algorithm's automatically bin your CV's if your over 50!!! Too qualified, too experienced, too expensive too old! That was my experience.

[@dreamclaw00]

This is so true, I'm 49 and I never get any kind of response

[@jamessmith1652]

How would the algorithm know your age if you don't put it on your CV? Remove dates on education and don't list your first roles, only the last 10 years.

[@andythomas1693]

​@@jamessmith1652 This is good advice - I did this & helped me land a job.

[@mandymccall9445]

Agreed. Don't put your age or DOB on the C.V. if you can help it.

[@stephenjenkins2166]

​@jamessmith1652 That's true to a point. The problem then is when they meet you at interview they get to see you and work out roughly your age. It's at that point any 'possible' ageism will kick in.

[@btyrr4453]

Thank you for your video! I’m 35 and rightly or wrongly, the future is always a worry to me! I work in e-commerce which is an ever changing landscape and my biggest fear is that I can’t keep up with the ever changing trends! Your insight on what the future may hold is really useful. I really hope you find your perfect fit!

[@ashfly]

It's bloody hard mate. Im 57 and struggling after been made redundant last year. I have had a few jobs but sadly poor ones. I worked in the chemical industry for over 25 years.. Age is definitely a factor.

[@CatCat-v5g]

Retrain, follow something you love, something that makes you want to actually get up in the morning..Good luck..👍

[@El_Nombre-e3x]

Where do you do this retraining

[@DeeKay84]

I'm 58 and am now a security guard. Terrible job, terrible money. I had better jobs when I was in my teens. I should have joined the masons.

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

Awful job, security. Nothing happens for 99% of the time and the other time it is dangerous. Also, most are on their feet all day.

[@ivo367]

Maybe try a driving job? Cargo or schoolbus? There’s plenty of job openings now.

[@fayhava3908]

As someone younger ~ 40 yr old female working in HR and often interviewing for roles myself, I’ve noticed the job market is bad for all ages. I Interviewed recently for a new role, didn’t get it for being overqualified apparently. In all honesty I think the 3 male interviewers didn’t expect me to answer so well with more knowledge than them probably 😂 they went for someone circa 10 years younger than me, no qualifications and no industry experience, go figure There is something in the comments I’d agree with about older people less being mouldable and it’s those companies you’re best off out of because they only use and abuse people,pay them less and expect them to put up with all sorts of toxic rubbish Something about the world of work has changed and I’ve noticed it myself. People are less happy and I’ve also heard toxic bosses say people with young kids will work harder for their jobs because they “need the money” corporate nonsense

[@bobmathews9072]

I don't even put my date of birth (1973) on my c.v anymore , that gets you past the pink-haired 20-something warthog in H.R who'd see it and hit "delete" straight away . And as for that "over-qualified" excuse , YOU SAW MY C.V !! You knew I was "over-qualified" and still invited me here knowing you were going to turn me down , cheers for wasting both our time !!

[@johnnyNobCheese]

Lol...yeah, when I have an interview with a blue hair I automatically know it's not happening

[@Thrazkar]

@@johnnyNobCheese They have been indocrinated to see us White men as having 'privelage' aka already rich enough to not need a job. See we White men tick no boxes.

[@keithparker1346]

​@@johnnyNobCheeseteens and sub 30s really have a hard time handling us older folk

[@44lala16]

But you hit the equality box. So at least they can say 'look we don't have discrimination against age' as we interviewed a man over 50. Complete of everybody's time.

[@pam164]

Yes, they ring up. You did really well at the interview, but you haven't got the job. Yea great thanks.

[@markawcom]

What a great video! I’m 55 and went through a very similar experience last year. I can relate to your experience of often being the oldest person in the room - that’s something I still see today. I can also relate to the “over qualified” statements as well, having had received quite a few of those myself. Happy to share my experience of trying to find work at age 55+, if that’s of interest

[@LeeGreenldgphotos]

At 52 , I found it so much harder to get a new job. I felt it was my age, just feels like I was invisible..... it was very depressing .

[@fredbloggs220]

If you want to experience the true horror of unemployment over 55 try claiming Universal Credit.

[@maisiedogonline]

Savings causing problems? God forbid you put something aside for a rainy day.

[@stephenhookings1985]

I got my brother UC recently - seems there is some journal to be completed to prove you are looking for work but no one reads it. Thing is he had terminal cancer - so I managed to get him exempt from completing rhe journal - after a few threatening letters that UNLESS he added to the journal they would take benefit away. He passed away last month - incurable cancer is a terrible illness. Being fit and apparently unemployable but with no financial safety net seems to be nasty too. The kicker - he was too young to draw on his pensions. I am battling to get the companies to "at their discretion" pass it down to his grandson.

[@dcarbs2979]

@@maisiedogonline The system actively punishes you for being frugal and living within your means.

[@keithparker1346]

It's a bit of a mess. I'm on UC but have found that most people in the DWP I have had to deal with are ok. Maybe I've been lucky. Most seem to understand it's an absolute shitstorm for finding work

[@keithparker1346]

​@@stephenhookings1985the journal I guess is rarely looked at but I would not be surprised if you didn't fill something in you'd be sanctioned...rightly so. If you're not making effort to look for work expect the DWP to come down on you

[@BogStandardUser]

Enjoyed your vlog, I can relate. I'm 47 and work in IT. I too was contracting but then found the UK market had taken a nose dive. My last contract ended Dec 2023, and it took me 6 months to find another role. But I had to take the decision to move from contract to a perm role. Decent salary but nothing close to contracting rates, but I'm using this opportunity to better myself and gain further skills and knowledge. I use LinkedIn alot and perhaps, if you have not considered, set yourself up on that. Business and recruiters keep an eye on those who right articles and a good place to network. Which also brings me onto trying to find in your local area and further a field networking groups, i.e. businesses and field specific ones. They get together and meet-ups.

[@hendongooner7383]

The job market is bad. I'm an IT Software developer with decades of experience. The business I was working for was destroyed by the lockdown back in 2020. The "2 weeks to flatten the curve" turned into 2 years. Made redundant. I thought I'd secured a role back in Dec 2023...had 3 interviews; right down to discussing with HR my salary etc. Only to be told in mid January 2024 that recruitment was being frozen and the role was no longer being offered. Must've applied for hundreds of jobs since then....most I think are just "Ghost" jobs put out by recruitment agencies to give the impression that they have lots of jobs on offer. It is very tough.

[@cellarton]

Wishing you all the best of luck. You seem like the kind of person anyone would love to have in their team.

[@mistamac57]

Good luck mate. I was made redundant after 10 years service. At 59 I thought I may as well start a business than return to the job market. Not guaranteed but I’m happier working flat out for myself. Wish you well

[@keithparker1346]

Good luck in your endeavours

[@chosenone8454]

Afraid to say it but in my experience its the old classic who you know rather than what you know

[@valuetraveler2026]

UK is not a meritocracy

[@davidjames1817]

I sympathise with you. I know this isn’t much consolation but 8 years ago I was made redundant as a Bradford based IT manager aged 56.
Numerous jobs applied for, excellent interviews that never came to fruition. It got to the point where an agent would ring, we’d go through all my experience to be told I would be a perfect fit. At that point I would mention that I am 56, is that a problem? The line would go quiet and eventually, the agent would say “well the MD is a thirty-something-year-old and wants to surround himself with similar people”.
Ageism, although illegal, is rife.
Eventually, I got an IT post in my local council, it was a shock to say the least with old technology and even older working practices but I worked with similar aged people to myself.
After 7 years I finally took retirement 7 weeks ago.
I wish you all the best!

[@stephenhookings1985]

And the irony is this cheap old equipment is hacked by ransomware leading to more wasted Government money.

[@philhesmondhalgh]

Very interesting to listen to your experience, it mirrored mine almost exactly. I’d never had a problem landing a job but when I reached my mid 50’s, I was increasingly interviewed by younger and younger people who must have thought “he’s older than my Dad!” and despite my experience, knowledge and people skills the job offers dried up. I decided to sell my house, move to a cheaper (and nicer) part of the uk, live mortgage free and take a part time job as a postman. I’ve never been happier and I don’t miss my career and all the stress that went with it.

[@shajithumasaran1417]

I have been unemployed for three months. I did a Biomedical Science degree last year and attempted to apply to jobs within the NHS but I never got any responses at all. I am also applying to minimum wage jobs and it is still the same thing with them saying that I am overqualified for the role. I used to have jobs before but I felt like I should have never quitted that one warehouse job because it was night shift and switched it to day shift instead and the work environment was terrible. I was doing a student support worker job for two years only to be somewhat revoked from my employment so that job is now in the gutter. I have an interview next week for a medical receptionist job and I am currently trying to do whatever I can to get a bank staff role within the NHS to get some experience on my CV but this still isn't good enough because I need to start working to support the family. I'm 23 and this is the situation and I just feel like I can't survive.

[@nota8386]

Have thought of tutoring...most of it is online now and your maths skills would open up a big market. You can fit it in around your interests/ hobbies e.g. evenings/weekends. Would definetley earn you a few quid. Plenty of agencies looking for staff. Best of luck mate from a fellow over 55 from Manchester.

[@royalherbs]

I'm 57 and now love my job working three days a week at a care home as a gardener. I previously worked in the Health sector.

[@gingerali]

You’ve answered all your questions eloquently yourself , after 40/45 if you find yourself out of work then forget it or look at casual part time work. The population of this country is well over 100 million but they tell us that it’s close to 70 million which is a lie and contributes to unemployment.

[@johnmunro4952]

Don't spout bollocks like that. The UK population is an independently verified 67 million. Take your tin foil hat off and go touch some grass.

[@brianjones4026]

Yes Its much worse than we thought ... as they have been misleading us on the quantity of " enrichment " actually living in our country ! They say that there are 65 million people currently living in the UK, but there was an article written in the Independent 20 years ago by the now dead journalist Mike Baker that stated the real population based on food buying figures released to government by major supermarkets actually estimated that the population back then, 20 years ago, was more 80 million ! So i think its fair to say the population of the UK is something more like 120 million now and i guess the same for the rest of Europe, Canada and the US !

[@YiannosG]

Thanks for making this re-affirming video. I am in a similar situation. 52, Manchester as well, Software Engineer. The cut-off for me was Covid, I was working for a travel company, they've let 200 people on furlough and then made redundant. My hair turned grey almost overnight, as they say, so my appearance changed quite significantly. Ever since that happened, interviews, which were my strong point and I would have to fight off different companies to hire me circa 2019, now they come back with ridiculous feedback, that did not make sense at the start. Took me a while to figure out it was ageism. They would proclaim strange excuses, like, I would answer 80% of tech questions, that would be a fail. Or do a great kata (programming exercise just for them), it would be "over engineered". Or after having just an initial 1-2-1 with an HR person, they would sometimes say things as ridiculous as "the hiring agent died", or he is on holiday, or they are "freezing hires". But even being in a job, probation becomes a danger if the manager is off the "red-rimmed glasses brigade" as I like to call them. They can fabricate a reason to let you go, to make the budget for a younger guy who inexplicably would be a better fit. This is where I am now, and its superbly dangerous, as I have both the need and the desire to be working until I'm 137, and I can't afford to take sabbaticals between jobs, these elongated job searches due to age discrimination can be deadly. It was good to see so many people facing the same problem, thanks to your brave video. Thanks again.

[@gilesl]

Hope things work out for you soon. I'm 51 and been self employed forever but I know once I lose my regulars I'll have to find work in a different industry somehow!

[@Jonathan-yd8ud]

I work for a recruitment agency here in Ireland and we have to interview people over the age of 50 as a box ticking exercise but we very rarely hire them. The fact is this sector of people know their employment rights and don't put up with sh it as much as a 25 year old

[@ichrismoku]

As someone who worked really hard, was paid appallingly, and given few to no opportunities to move up from 21 - 33? Yeah, I was that person. I was the 25 year old who put up with the shit, except I didn't get anything at the end of it all and now I'm having to work for myself anyway.

[@tonybingham334]

I'm coming up to 57 years old, got made redundant a couple of months ago with health issues, i'm finding it hard to get back into work, i was myself also had interviewes but then they realise my age, i get turned down even with my experience, so i'm having to use my private pension to survive

[@rolexkings7747]

Hope things improve for you

[@RobJorg]

i have exact same problem but im not even getting job interviews. IT contractor for over 28 years, BSc. last week i saw a contract and it said they looked for a young energetic person. so not me at 53. i have written into well over 100 contracts, get daily rejections, have 2 Science degrees in IT, 70 certifications, fluent in 3 languages. agism is a thing and it starts at 45, gets worse at 50 and after 55 good luck. understand you are not alone and its not you.

[@Michael-i2q5g]

Very similar situation for me this year.IT contractor over 20 years, 51 years old and no hope of landing a contract outside of my contacts. I’ve never seen this before and IR35 is the other main issue

[@RobJorg]

@@Michael-i2q5g would almost say that you are in my country of the netherlands. the taxes are looking more at contractors avoiding taxes and hiring organisations are moving towards payroll constructions to hire contractors. but i see three major problems. economy is moving towards a cooldown or maybe even recession, second is government moves on cutting down on fake contractors and making it hard for reall contractors if you understand what i mean and third is agism. when i read "young and energetic" they dont mean a 53 year old senior. im going the youtube route, a new adventure should be up this sunday where i explain my story as a Dutchy.

[@Michael-i2q5g]

@@RobJorg IR35 payroll changes in 2021 were a great example of a govt introducing tax changes without understanding how the market works. They started from the basis that a relatively small proportion of contractors should be classified as employees. In their wisdom they put the liabilities of misclassification with the end client without adequately defining employment. Large consultancies then did reviews in each company and classified 90% of contractors as employees. Unsurprisingly, as contractors are their direct competitors. Contractors then face employee level of taxation, including a marginal rate hitting a lovely 67% with no ability to offset with travel expenses. So, all this has frozen the market. Many large companies are scared of hiring any contractors, many contractors have retired or turned permanent. Flexibility has been lost which is essential on large IT programmes. Large Global consultancies now sweep up all the work with young cheaper resources with little experience. I am sure it’s the same in the Netherlands and many other countries where govts don’t understand the impact of tax changes and with a looming recession, cheaper and younger resources are and will dominate

[@desdicadoric]

I’m coming up for 58, I’ve been made redundant 4 times in the last 15 years. The only time I found it hard to get something else was during the financial crash era back in 2011, was unemployed 6 months. I got very, very good at interviews. Last couple of times I had a pick of 2 or 3 jobs at once and those were 2019 and 2022. I’m not a genius by any means but have as I say got really good at interviewing. I’m currently in private medical looking after 50ish nurses, so middle management. Just as well I’m able to pick up jobs as I have young kids and will be working til I drop

[@frentbow]

Hi there, i am sorry that you are experiencing a difficult time right now being out of work, hope it turns to positive news soon. Just wanted share that my daughter is in her early twenties is a qualified light vehicle technician she is also struggling for work. it appears the amount of people that apply for jobs is alot so its a bit of a lottery, one employer said they don't look at all the applicants because there are so many so it may not be personal to you. I never understood being overqualified as a reason to not employ as surely they are getting great value, but may think you will move on to bigger and better quickly. I think its hard for people to get jobs and yes it could be that employers are ageist, i doubt they would admit it. Good luck with your job search. Thanks for sharing your point of view i think alot of people can relate.

[@vapebusterse-cigsstorecudw9908]

In the same boat turn 56 this year. Been self employed since 2014. I am now wanting a part-time job to get me through to retirement and beyond. Looking like its going to be massive challenge. Just got to positive, flexible and realistic in what available.

[@susanpettitt713]

Good luck mate Im a Waspi women trying to hack through each month before I get my pension I never knew was postponed.....you seem articulate and talented. Had to take my small pension out at 55 to pay for mothers care fees. Sincere wishes.

[@ILLRICARDO]

I am 40, have adhd . I was an animator but have the hardest time finding employment, i lost my job during the pandemic, and have been living of my savings....its been hard.

[@jerryjulius6664]

Sadly, I am in the same boat as you… I am 55 yrs old F.C.C.A with the Degree in Accounting and Finance with more than 20 yrs experience as Financial Controller and Head of Finance. Since my previous company went into administration in May 2024, I have faced significant challenges in securing a new role, whether permanent or contract. I am beginning to wonder if my age is a contributing factor, bit worrying !!

[@cside2426]

Don't know if you're interested in government work, like the fast stream program, you can check them out. If you're certified that's a plus. Not proposing you leave home, but there's UK overseas territories. Just a thought. All the best.

[@RichardJHuntArt]

It is difficult. I’m 53 had 3 interviews for a job and was offered the job. The next day HR phoned me to tell me they were now decided to not send my contract out because they had taken the decision to recruit for it internally. 4 days later the advert for the same job was posted at £20k less.

[@stephenhookings1985]

That does seem to be happening a lot. I wonder if the employer thinks"hmmh ... how low can we go?". I wrote back to one company who said 'we found better candidates' - thanks for taking the time to reply. I can't help but notice the same job is reposted at lower wage. Best of luck with your candidate search

[@vicvegas199]

Ageism is a real thing. You are not too old with 55 years old, but to a lot of despicable companies think you are. Take care of your mental health, take it easy and good luck with job hunting!!

[@thetudors9875]

This does not surprise me and it’s clear that “ageism” is real …. No dressing it up + am satisfied that there is indeed a growing problem . Thank you for your refreshing and honest presentation and let’s know how you get on. 👋👍

[@danseddon4319]

Looking at the amount of response to your channel you may find that you can make a great success with KZbin. You could have Interviews, comment on the UK jobs market and current affairs etc. You’ve caught a lot of attention from the off and have a good level of charisma. The UK economy and AI are about to hit us all hard. Good luck with the channel. 👍

[@Mir-wx5ui]

I agree your channel has great potential! I have subscribed and am looking forward for more of your content!

[@alanbarnes3569]

I am 58 and I took early retirement at 55, the last three years have been the best time of my life. I spent 40 years working as a pastry chef and now I’m done. No stress and no financial worries is the way to live. Have a great day 😊

[@peteo8225]

If you are really desperate to work and have an income, then maybe you need to lower one's sights. I worked in a professional roll for Manchester Airport until I took early retirement during COVID in 2020. I was 55 so luckily got my final salary pension. After a few months I got bored and applied for night jobs in retail, no pressure, no stress. I got a job straight away at Waitrose in Poynton, Cheshire (£15 per hour). I worked with a local charted accountant, who had been screwed over during covid. He had a big house and big bills, but wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty. He left after a few months when he was offered work again in his field. Just get out there and do any job to tied you over! There's only one objective, and that's survival!