Ageism is illegal but still very prevalent.

Once you hit your 50s and you get laid off, or want to change jobs, it gets tougher and tougher as the years go by.

What are some of the perceptions that contribute to making it more challenging for people over 50 in the job market?

• Higher salaries
• People fear you won’t be as productive
• They feel you might be bored in a role
• Assumption that you won’t be as technologically savvy
• Startups that are full of young people may feel that someone older won’t fit in

What can you do to help yourself stay marketable? Here are a few ideas to help you contend with, or speak directly to, the assumptions and concerns of potential employers.

• Customize your resume to the job description. If the job description says 10+ years of experience write on your CV 10+ years (instead of the 25+ you may have it may be less intimidating to employers)
• Stay current with current technology – if you learn that you are missing something, take a course or certification
• Stay current with the new trends in your industry
• Highlight your presence on LinkedIn by reply to posts on things affecting your industry.

Share posts with your thoughts as well.

• Explore different work options- be open to consulting or part-time contracts. Sometimes these opportunities can turn full-time or lead to other opportunities.
• Speak out about the stereotypes – we all must work together to change the world’s perspective. We are all living longer; the age of “Freedom 55” is a thing of the past and many of us have no intention of retiring until we are much older.