Ageism is Real… But It Doesn’t Have to Win
If you’re over 50 and looking for a new job, let’s be honest… ageism is real. I hear about it all the time from smart, talented professionals who still have gas in the tank, but feel like they’re being pushed aside in the hiring process. I have also heard from hiring managers that they are not interested in anyone over 45 (while not quite a legal thing to state, it is happening all the time)
It’s frustrating. It’s disheartening. It’s short sighted for the company. And it’s not always easy to fight something that no one will admit is happening.
But here’s the thing: you can navigate it. You can land meaningful, exciting work even in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. I work to coach people who want to navigate age 50 to 75… and career issues are a big part of the journey. I’ve watched people reinvent. And I’ve learned a few things along the way.
Here’s what I tell them:
1. Stop Apologizing for Your Age.
Your experience is an asset. Your age is a credential. You don’t need to pretend to be 38. Just show them that you’re 58 and still in the game.
2. Update Everything.
That means your resume, your LinkedIn photo, your email address (please don’t be @aol or #hotmail), and your pitch. You’re not just “experienced”… you’re current, curious, and ready for what’s next.
3. Learn Something New. Right Now.
Whether it’s AI tools, digital marketing, or collaborative platforms… get a new skill and talk about it. Show the world that you’re still learning, growing, and adapting.
4. Network Like It’s Your Job.
Because it kind of is. Most jobs are still found through people. Go to events. Reconnect with old colleagues. Build bridges to younger professionals. Relationships matter at every age. All opportunities come from people and human interaction (H.I.) in an AI driven world is your secret to success.
5. Tell a Better Story.
Frame your experience around impact, not chronology. Don’t just list job titles… talk about how you led change, mentored others, and delivered results.
6. Position Yourself Like an Expert.
You’ve been in the game a while, now own it. Make short videos, write blog posts, and comment on LinkedIn about trends and insights in your industry. Be visible. Be generous. Share what you know. You’ll build credibility and stay top of mind. If you are seen as a leader in your industry, a smart company want you on their team (no working for their competition).
7. Ignore the Whisper Campaign.
You’ll hear phrases like “culture fit,” “digital native,” or “we’re looking for fresh energy.” Don’t get rattled. Respond with calm confidence and examples that bust the stereotype. Even if they do not say the words, if you sense ageism, prove you are the most valuable candidate.
8. Stay Future-Focused.
Don’t spend too much time talking about what you did in 2002. Employers want to know where you’re headed and how you’ll help them get there. Show enthusiasm for what’s possible… not just what’s behind you.
Final Thought:
You’re not done. You’re just in a different chapter. Ageism might be real, but so is resilience, relevance, and reinvention. And no algorithm or bias can compete with a human being who shows up ready to contribute.
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Thom Singer, CSP, is a professional keynote speaker and the CEO at the Austin Technology Council. He also coaches people who want to make age 50 to 75 the best years of their life.