All washed up at 27. (Ageism and Employment)

Member Name: moonbailey

Product:	Ageism and Employment
Date:	24/01/02 (268 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: none

Disadvantages: plenty

I've just come to the conclusion that I am unemployable. It's quite a shock and not at all what I expected, but a fact nonetheless (well almost!).

So, what happened?

I went to a good school and got some great grades (6 A's and 3 B's at G.C.S.E and 3 B's at A'Level). Then I went to University, but took a change of tack afterwards (uh oh - first mistake) and decided to use my creativity in another way rather than photography, as I'd done on my course.

Doing my sums I thought I'd be well into my thirties before I'd made a profit from setting up my own photography business - the equipment costs a bomb and the competition is furious.

So, I tried to get into writing (that'll be easier I thought - like a complete idiot). After fifty or so attempts to get a junior position at a magazine - I ran out of time and money and went into retail. This is an evil trade. They pay so little that you are trapped from the outset. You only ever break even on your outgoings each month and can't save a penny - so you can't afford to leave because you'd run out of money in no time at all. But that's another op, surely.

I kept coming out of the jobs for a couple of weeks, busting a gut trying ot get a propper job - then going back in a desperate attempt to pay the rent before it was too late.


I finally got a break and worked as a writer for 10 months - then the company went bust.

Now, I have been turned down for writing work because I am too old for junior positions but don't meet the strict two year's experience needed for senior roles.

I tried agencies who said the same. I tried changing tack and trying for other jobs but was told I was too old to be trained up in something new.

Then, in desperation I tried retail again - and was told I was overqualified by some and too old by others.

I get the distinct impression that companies now
feel it is too much of a risk employing women in their mid to late twenties. One reason I imagine is that they think I'm about to drop a baby any second as my body clock clicks onto reserve. The other I suppose is that they assume no-one else wanted me, so I must be some sort of freak - for me to be still looking for my big break. God I mean - even I think that!


So, years of education, some fantastic experience under my belt and a good portion of skill (contrary opinions in my comment box - if you please) and I'm only able to secure a minimum wage job that any monkey could do.


It is disgraceful that my boyfriend only got his job because he lied about his age - he's now the most highly regarded employee in his department. He looks ten years younger than his true age. Having been turned down for every interview that asked his age - he took it off his cv - along with some crucial dates and was immediately offered two jobs to choose from.

I have always held the opinion that the more mature person works hardest. I would always go to my elders for advice as the best experience is gathered over time rather than from a book or lecturer. (shot myself in the foot, haven't I?)

I have just done the same. I've substituted the date of birth bit with a snapshot of me (see my profile page!). They can draw their own conclusions to whether I'm over the hill.


I'll get back to you all to let you know if it works.

M. xx

Summary: