I didn't think people asked that type of question any more in job interviews, but I got asked it last Monday by the guy who'd been rude to me on the phone (remember him).
Actually, he wasn't rude to me this time and a job which I thought was going to be just cold calling was actually interesting and I would have taken it if offered, but I've not been offered, yet anyway.
I had a bit of a surprise mid week. A phone call from my old boss at the environmental company, asking if I would like my job back.
Anyone who knows me will recall that there were a lot of negatives involved and they were what pushed me into taking the job that lasted all of four weeks. I've sold just about everything I can to keep the bills covered and I know my improved cv has been getting me interviews, mainly because the first twenty years of my work life isn't on it.
I don't do too badly in interviews these days, even the one last week which was just a stream of text book questions, but my age is definitely against me.
This is one I can't get my head around and I know it's a problem here and in the US, you only have to watch the movie The Company Men to witness downsizing and rationalisation.
If I needed someone to redecorate my spare room, the last thing on my mind would be how fucking old they are.
Legally, I've 7 full years before retirement age, since the government put the age up by a year. Most people these days, especially younger ones "building their career" do not stay in a job for 7 years. So that shoots down the longevity argument in a large percentage of cases, especially larger companies.
Older people expect more money. Another bullshit poorly thought out excuse. You apply for jobs which you can do and at a salary level commensurate with the sort of job it is. It can be misleading when the job advert reads Dependent on experience for a salary. That just means, we'll pay the least money for the best candidate.
I think there's a lot of mileage in the concept that managers feel insecure having subordinates who are older and more experienced than they are. Of course, if they knew anything about team building, they'd see the experienced team member as a strength. Older people are less likely to be using a job as a stepping stone.
But what do I know ? I'm not a coven member of the society known as HR professionals.
I've accepted the offer. The one good thing is I know the job and can do it well. I can only assume it is because of that I've been asked back.
I return on Tuesday 16th, as I've a hospital appointment on the Monday.
One word of advice to HR types who come home and find a 55 year old mending their Hotpoint.
Leave em alone, they know their job every bit as good as a 22 year old with gel in their hair and a tribal tattoo.
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