High Paying Jobs! People Under 60 Need Not Apply
91Come to my company. I am going to pay by age. If you are 75 you start at $75,000 and go up a thousand a year!
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by Bill Russo
When you are old, please do not try to get a ’real’ job. There's nothing out there for you except embarrassment and maybe pity. American companies don’t want you working for them. They won’t come right out and say it…but you will get the idea when the application says
What year did you graduate from high school?:
then there is a list and you are supposed to check off your year of graduation…You look down the list….
2005
2004
2003
2002
---nope go back a little more----
1995
1994
1993
------nope, go further
1983
1982
------nope…go further down
1979
1978
…so you keep laddering the list until finally it terminates at 1975.
I guess that’s a pretty good clue they don’t want anybody who graduated before 1975.
Well, I’m not going to sit around and gripe about this discrimination against my fellow senior citizens!
I’ve decided I’m going to buy a huge company and I’m only going to hire old people. You’ll have to be at least 60 to come work for me. If you're over 80..there will be an immediate vice presidency for you!!!!!
Now when I buy this company there probably will be some young people working there so I’ll have to get rid of them. I can’t just fire them - that would be age discrimination .
I’m going to make them feel so unwelcome that they will quit.
The first thing I’m going to do is eliminate all coffee breaks….no more coffee breaks. Instead, we’ll take Naps!
At 10 o’clock every morning and again at 3:00 in the afternoon, I’ll announce over the P.A. system..............................
“Okay everybody…it’s nap time. Time to lay down and relax and catch a few winks. I’ll call you in 30 minutes..”
It will be a company rule that anybody caught drinking coffee during nap time, will be fired.
That should get rid of a lot of the whippersnappers…probably fifty per cent. .But for the stubborn ones who survive the nap rule, I’ll swing into Plan B.
Under plan B, I’ll modify all the bathrooms by removing any items like Sanitary napkin or condom dispensers……and I will replace them with special dispensers of “Depends”. …………….and I think I can depend on “Depends” to get rid of another forty percent of the Young people.
As you have probably already figured out…that still leaves me with a tough ten per cent of young fogies that I will have to get rid of.
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I HAVE A PLAN 'C'
.
This is the Mother of all plans. It’s the nuclear bomb of cunning schemes.
Here’s what I’m going to do.
I’m going to go to the pharmacy and buy 350 tubes of Ben Gay. And then
I am going to smear Ben Gay over all the desks, slap it on the walls and even the floors. I will smudge it on the telephones and even slather it all over the toilets.
There will be BEN GAY everywhere! Those youngsters will walk in and turn up their noses in horror!
“I’m getting out of here."
"I Quit,” they’ll say..............
“I can’t work here, it smells just like grandma’s house!.”
-0-
(Author's Note: There are a few jobs that are senior friendly. Product demonstration is one and building maintenance is another. Here's a link on how to get a job and a free apartment along with it.
http://billrrrr.hubpages.com/_eg8y4okdyscz/hub/Plenty-of-Help-Wanted-in-Building-Maintenance-Jobs
Here's the link on how to get started in product demonstrating at Supermarkets & Department Stores...
http://billrrrr.hubpages.com/_eg8y4okdyscz/hub/HighPayingJobsforSeniorCitizens
This link is to "How to safely clean your jewelry" which also shows the Youtube video that my partner and I made demonstrating the product that we make and sell in BJs Clubs and at flea markets and on Ebay. http://billrrrr.hubpages.com/_eg8y4okdyscz/hub/How-to-clean-jewelry
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Give me your tired, your old, your mature people, yearning to work for a Senior Friendly Company.
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LOL! I love this! When you get that company started I will be the first in line. I worked in corporate call centers from the age of 47 to 55. They were glad to hire me as the 'token old person' but I came to hate it a lot after 8 years and left. Now I can't get a job to save my life, but most of the time I don't want one. I find I'm a lot crankier and it's much harder to put up with BS than when I was young. When someone half my age is handing me a line of crap, it's harder to take it seriously than it was when I was in my 20s and 30s. So I'm just working for myself and trying to be helpful to my kids and the community. Jobs are overrated. Most of them pay badly and are not very satisfying. If there was a good job out there that I couldn't get, I'd feel sad--but I live in Michigan, so, you know, forget that. Thanks for the laugh!
brilliant hub -- I'm only sorry I'm still too young to work at your company, as like PGrundy I am sooooo tired of younger people who sure they are keyed in to the mysteries of the inner workings of the universe and are certain that anyone over forty is about to expire on the spot due to old age. Thanks for writing this. I turn fifty in a few weeks, and have just woken up from my afternoon nap. . .
Thanks for the comments.
I am almost ready to open my company and Hubbers will be welcome.
All I lack is cash...but that is no problem. I am going to pretend I am a failed bank and get tons of stimulus money.
WOW !!! I love this company already..I am a little over 60 and unemployed thanks to GM closing several dealerships..I will be waiting for my new job with your elderly staff.I don't take any naps yet but,I do walk my dog alot..This idea would be a great company with great employees..
Thanks H W....since you are 60, you begin at 60K. But advancement for you could be tough unless you start napping on the job.
Remember anybody caught drinking coffee during nap-break, will be dismissed!
The best site of my day............oh how real.... and the bull that we like older workers...............
like we like um .............50 lbs. overweight........and the likes ...............
you get my drift......................60 young and still nieve..............it is just a disposable society and a human being is humus for someone's rosebud tomorrow.
Okay...okay...I am a retired air traffic controller, and now a starving artist. I turned 60 this year, and want to get on the list:6) Brilliant site!!!!
I HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR A COMPANY LIKE THIS ONE
The U.S. Government announced today (10-11-10) that once again there will be no Social Security raise for Senior citizens. Shouldn't they have postponned that announcement until Halloween (10-31-10)
because it's pretty scary news!
As one who is newly divorced, after being married for 37 years, I am looking for a company like this! But what about benefits? LOL I can only guess that you will pay all of our medical bills until we make it to Medicare and then you will become the secondary benefit. Of course, I would LOVE to work for this company.
Wonderful idea! No one wants to hire us old people!
Yeah I really think working and old age don't go together in most companies policies and procedures manual. They do like go through the motions though thinking they are giving some old people hope.
The government wants to get the retirement age up to about 70, in the belief that benefits won't have to be paid to the 65 to 69 age group. It might work in theory but we do not live in theory - we live in the United States where you can't get a real job when you have reached the 'golden age'. It's just like that song, "nobody wants you when you're old and gray."
In real life I am trying to do what I joke about in my hub. So far the company my partner and I started when I whote the hub, has grown slowly so we have not been able to hire as many seniors as we want but we expect to get a lot more this year. A few weeks ago we employed a 66 year old New York City man who has the energy of a person aged 19. We took on a 64 year old Brooklyn woman who was let go from her job because she was too old. She's actually a little young for our company, but she's doing an excellent job. She takes good naps and sells product like Willie Loman did in his dreams. We hired a 57 year old Massachusetts womman who really is way too young, but she promises to age rapidly so we are giving her a shot.
Our best salesperson is 84 years old!!!! He and his brother closed their retail business because the brother wanted to retire - at age 75. The older brother felt that 75 was way too young to retire, so he came with our traveling roadshow company and he is admired, respected and successful where ever he goes. He also makes a pretty good amount of money for himself. This man came with us two years ago when he was a mere 82, and he is always looking ahead and planning long range. It's not only optimism, it's a lifestyle. His up-beat attitude is like the flu - everybody catches it. I hope within the next year to start posting some youtube videos of our old gang at work.
I have to run to CVS right now and get some more BEN GAY FOR THE OFFICE...a couple of people in their 30s tried to get a job with us today and I didn't have enough Ben Gay smeared around to drive them off...so when they come back the next time, I will slather it all over the chairs. That should force them out.
Okay , what is the product you sell and how do you sell?
My partner and I invented the world's finest Jewelry Polish and Eyeglass cleaner and we manufacture it on Cape Cod with 100 per cent American bottles, ingredients and labor. We sell it in select BJs Wholesale Clubs. Our salespeople set up a demo table and show the product by cleaning eyeglasses and polishing diamonds, opals, pearls, neckchains etc. The product is so good, we almost always hear "Oh My God" or "Wow!" or "Holy S--t."
If you live around New York City, we have many shows going this month including the following BJs - Valley Stream, Islandia, Middle Village/Queens, Flushing, Brooklyn, College Point and others. We are also presently doing demos in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut; and will open Florida in September. We now have a LONG waiting list of OLD PEOPLE who want to work with us. Our present people are doing very well financially and we will keep adding new 'old' people as fast as we can. Come see us if you are near the New York or New England shows.
I got an email from someone wondering if we are going to sell our jewelry polish in California. We can't because we live on Cape Cod and California is way too far from the ocean!
I am happy to report that my "Nap Breaks" are catching on with some officials in the U.S. Government. Soon they may begin discriminating against young people and start hiring more OLD people.
It has been suggested that Air Traffic Controllers get Nap Breaks but the head of safety is against it. Here's the AP report:
WASHINGTON (AP) — The government said air traffic controllers would have more time to rest between shifts under new work rules announced Sunday, while Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood made clear he won't tolerate sleeping on duty despite studies and expert recommendations that suggest scheduled shut-eye can help combat fatigue.
"On my watch, controllers will not be paid to take naps. We're not going to allow that," LaHood said. "They are going to be paid to do the job that they're trained to do, which involves guiding planes in and out of airports safely. But we are not going to pay controllers to be napping."
I tried to reach Ray for a comment but his aide said that he couldn't speak because he was busy napping on the job!
This is pretty funny, Luckilly at my company, they discriminate by intelligence. This is why I've learned not show my brains especially in front of my boss! Hope the old folks company works out for you :-D
I started this new company because I could not get a job. When i WAS under 50 and pushed my resume across a desk, I could get a good job in a day even during a recession. When I needed work at age 60 after a layoff, I could not get a job. My skills were the same. My experience was the same, even a little more experienced.
In short, everything was the same...except nobody would hire me. I vowed to start a company that would would be friendly to older workers. So far we are doing well but it is very, very difficult to build a business at this time. We will continue and push on. We are in four states now and hope to get in all 48 adjacent states by 2020.
Im 60 now so when can I start. This sounds like something I would loveto do
Hi Don. Welcome to the sixties. You have just started a fun little journey into old age. You will know you are there the first time you try to get in your car and you keep bumping your head as you enter. It used to be so easy geting in and out of vehicles! Look around your local BJs store and if you see a couple old folks selling 'Clear Bright 'n Shiny' eyeglass cleaner and jewelry polish - that will be us. Come over and say hello and maybe you can join us.
My husband needs a job. He is 62, and got let go over a year ago! Has applied for so many jobs since, with no luck! They dont even bother responding. We would love to get out from under his moms thumb! Have our own space again!
Jolanda, I know how hard it is. For me it was 57. Laid off and laid up with cancer. It took three years with no paycheck and no assistance to get healthy enough to work and by then nobody wanted me. I went all the way through my 401K and all savings. I got to 62 and had to take reduced Social Security. My partner and I have started a 'senior friendly' company with an All American product, but it is very, very difficult for businesses to thrive today.
One job I will recommend for both of you is demonstrating products at Costco or BJs. These jobs pay more than you think. If you believe you could do a good job offering people free samples and promoting products, apply and give it a try.
Bill, You da man! Just what I needed to help me out of a slump. No need to hash on about my circumstances but like you I have gone through all my savings after finding myself replaced by younger, less experienced men. I stopped kicking myself yesterday and am now able to look forward with optimistic reality.Nice phrase huh?
I am gonna try Costo, Sam's and BJ's..I actually worked last year for the Census and found great company in people my own age and circumstances.
Keep the faith and outlook my brother.
Thanks Doug. Best of luck. The demo jobs are good because the hours are convenient and you have something coming in while you cast around for better opportunities. It's always easier to get a job when you have a job.
I thought this was a serious sight. After serving in two wars and 20 years in the military and have lost my job because the company closed the office I managed. I am 60 and do not find any of this funny. Why don't you post the real names of companies that want to help us!!!
Read again Rick. This is a serious 'sight' and a serious 'site'. The whole point pal, is that NOBODY WANTS YOU...and that's pretty serious. Our little company offers employment to as many people as we can. We try to laugh about the problem because -to paraphrase the old 'saw' - 'laugh and the whole world laughs with you...cry and you cry alone'. Since you served 20 years in the miliary, you have your service pension. What you probably need to do is supplement it. You have invaluable experience to draw upon. How about some work that will use that savy you gained over two decades? Security Guard? Store Detective? Loss Prevention? Sell yourself to your local Walmart, Target or whatever.
Get in there and talk to people. ALL OF US HAVE LOST OUR JOBS BECAUSE OUR COMPANY CLOSED! Get out and get circulating. Talk to five companies this week about a security position. Catch some shoplifters. Write back to me next week and tell me how you make out. At 60, you are still young. Wait till you hit 70 pal....then try to get a job. You can do it. Try it this week and write back to me. GOOD LUCK......YOU CAN DO IT.
He feels the bitterness that's all. No place to vent.
I went for an interview Tuesday that was an hour long. While I sat about to fill out some application information in a twenty page hire packet (doubles as emp app and hire) the project manager that was about to interview me asked me to write two things on a post-it note he handed me...wait for it....yes Louise, one was my SSAN and the other...okay, you give up? My Birth Date!
Now both were included in the printed employee app. but why he asked..I'll never know. Qualified for the job? Hell yes!. Gonna get the one of 12 jobs to be filled? NO.
Good southern boy and great attitude he had the Young Skywalker did. But two numbers on a page keep me from being happier. We are in the largest minority there is and our numbers are growing. Under 18 and over 60? Both unemployable if looking for long term work. The 18 y/o can be cured with time but the latter...??
Keep the faith my friend, keep the faith.
Doug that really, really sucks! With your attitude, drive and fire, you will succeed. It is all about batting average. We used to have a high one and now it's way down. We have to step up to the plate more often to get fewer hits. But what those employers don't realize is that even though we are not physically what we used to be - our brains are even better. We know how to focus. We appreciate the value of customer service.
My partner and I just took on a new job because nobody else wanted it. We took over a food concession at a struggling flea market. We're already working seven days a week (with little or no pay)in our
'senior friendly' Eyeglass & Jewelry cleaner company...now we are going to squeeze in five days a week (during the summeer) of serving hot dogs and sodas. We do it for the money of course, but more importantly so that we can feel useful and show people that old people can do anything they set their mind on. Thanks again Doug. Get out there and get in the batter's box again. Your hit is coming.
If you are coming to Cape Cod this Summer, stop by the Cape Cod Inflatable Park/Dick and Ellie's Flea Market in South Dennis. I will show you our old guy and gal company. You can meet some of us and I might even put you to work.
Dear Sir:
I have just turned 58 and would like to be put on your waiting list of potential employees for when I reach the 'fully ripened' age. I left a job 4 yrs. ago because it was going nowhere after 16 yrs. and co-workers were content to complain abt. their jobs but not leave, just wait for retirement in severely disgruntled fashion. I could not take the atmosphere of deliberate mediocrity any longer; I wanted more. For a year I searched for something better, using up all savings in process; finally had to settle for a HORRIBLE job in a credit union, with the WORST boss I ever had in my life! So of course, in keeping with the script, it was the FIRST job I had ever been fired from in my life of many (sometimes multiple) jobs! The only positive outcome I got out of those two years of hell was my current unemployment insurance compensation, which is, needless to say, NOT enough to live on.
I am very gun-shy now about accepting 'the only job I could find'; still haven't given up my [college-educated *eyeroll*] hope of finding something better before unemployment runs out. Thanks for this page; just what I needed to read :-) (My supervisor at the hell-hole bank was, of course, one of those young whippersnappers who thought they knew everything and had perfect right to treat everyone, young and old, in nasty fashion. Problem was, she fired so many people that there was no one left finally, to take the blame for a crisis, and she herself was fired! Lol!)
Hey Rotini! I laughed from the first line of your comment right through to the end and then I couldn't stop giggling when the 'whippersnapper' herself got fired!
It is a national tragedy and shame the way we are treated. We have worked for 40, 50, 60 years and then we have to beg for a job bagging groceries. I AM SICK OF THIS B...S..T. When are the Washington pols going to stick up for us? When are there going to be REAL and ENFORCEABLE laws about age discrimination?
In the meantime, keep smiling, keep laughing, and keep punching.
Thanks for the read and for the comment.
I so want to work for you!
Thankyou Mary. I really appreciate the comment. If you get to Cape Cod this Summer, look us up at the Cape Cod Inflatable Park/Dick & Ellie's Flea Market. If you are old enough, we'll hook you up!
Hi Bill,
This made my evening...I laughed all by myself here this evening. The sad thing is it's so true and I just turned 55. People can't believe I'm 55 I was blessed with good genes. I hate filling out job applications and how they sneak in when did you graduate...I just leave it blank! The truth is I am a colon cancer survivor and this September will be 6 years...I am very lucky! After that I took basically 6 years to have FUN and Reinvent myself. I have found that I love and am interested in the Health and Wellness Field and the Anti-Aging Field. There are definitely a lot of Boomers and Seniors interested in this area as well. I am also one who has gone through their retirement and just barely hanging on to my home here in California. My unemployment runs out next month...I've had some small jobs inbetween having cancer. I came to the AARP site tonight to look for ideas for people over 50....and there were quite a few ideas...some require getting some additional training. I will get a Pension from one company after 62....but trying to figure out what I am going to do to make THE BIG BUCKS while I work on my side passions of Anti-Aging and Wellness. I've been in sales all my Life....mostly insurance...and have an interview next week with a company that sells supplemental policies. They pay a base for 3 months then it's straight commission. The only way I can take this job is if I can find a night job while building the business. That's a lot of hours for a 55 year old....but God also blessed me with High Energy. I am not sure I will accept this position but I know that certain areas of insurance sales there is no age discrimination if you can sell! Anyway....just wanted to thank you for this article.....I am going to show it to everyone over 50! Michele
Bill, when I was in my 20s, most of my co-workers at a company division were over 50, and several were over 60. My boss said learn from them. And I did. They were eager to share their many skills in the workplace and never too busy to offer advice about life in general when asked. It was the most productive, creative workplace I have ever been associated with. Plus, my co-workers were fun, and we socialized after work, too. Age never entered into the equation. Now I'm in my 60s and the twenty-somethings at work treat me like I have a horrible disease (old age) that they might catch. They're not even civil. Besides bad manners and attitudes, many lack work ethic. But what gets me the most today, as I reminisce about the older co-workers/friends when I was in my 20s, is the complete lack of respect for older workers, who have a wealth of knowledge and skills to share, but nobody to share them with.
I'm still hanging on to my job, but I could get that dreaded phone call to come in to work early for an "important announcement" (I work the 2nd shift) any day now. All of the last bunch of folks laid off in the last round were in their 40s and 50s. Then the company waited 4 or 5 months and replaced them with recent college graduates in their early 20s who just don't seem to give a s--- about work and are glad to let the veteran workers pick up the slack.
Your company sounds like job heaven. I love your attitude, too.
Hi Michele. Your message struck a major chord with me because I was in the same boat. Struck by cancer in my mid fifties, I lost my job and during the several years of treatment and getting healthy again, my entire 401K and savings evaporated. I was just barely able to hang on to my property. When I was ready to work again, I was too old to be seriously considered for a 'real' job.
I found salvation in doing food demonstrations in supermarkets. It was rewarding emotionally and financially and the 'demo' business is one industry that actually welcomes older people. It's not 'big' money but it is interesting and steady work. Would-be demonstrators can check with their local BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, or similar establishment. Another part time job that's easy to obtain is 'call center' work. It's hard work but in telephone sales, age is not as big a factor as in most other endeavors. Re the Supplemental Policy Sales job; straight commission can be wonderful. There's plenty of money to be made and you are pretty much your own boss - but it takes a special discipline to be a straight commission salesperson. With your energy, drive and determination, you have the needed tools. Best of luck and I hope to hear from you again.
Hello Big Al. What a sad and familiar story. A tale of hard working people living every day in fear of the next round of layoffs! It's a nasty commentary on our times. You should now be the sage old pro who dispenses wisdom and shares secrets with the next generation, instead of feeling like an outcast. I wish you the very best and I hope things change in our favor.
Why is nobody fighting for seniors? Why are companies allowed to yank us out and throw us away like worn out tires? Why has there been no raise for seniors on social security for two years? And why has there been no outrage that seniors have not had a raise in their social security for two years?
Why? Because no one (in power) cares! As I type this reply to your comment, some seniors are choosing whether to eat today or pay the light bill. Others are taking only half their medication because they can't afford the prescription and they want to stretch it out as long as they are able. Many are putting off doctor visits because even though they are on medicare, they cannot afford to pay the part that medicare refuses to be responsible for. Many seniors are commtting slow suicide by cutting back on heat, lighting, food, medicine--because of cost.
I wish it was here now. I need a job so bad, I'm only 58 yrs. and nobody will hire me, not even interview me in my own field or others. What are we supposed to do? Just go away and die. I don't even have a home that my parents left me for security like most. Where does on go to get a job these days? I live in San Mateo, CA and am stronger and capable of doing a good job. Help!
He Lauie. Thanks for reading and commenting. My best thought for you is to go to a temp agency and pick up a temp job. Often, a temporary job can turn into a permanent job. You have a Kelly Services office near you in San Mateo. They will work with you to get you placed in a job in your field. At 58, you are still young enough to get a fresh start with a new company. Please register with Kelly - or a company like Kelly - you will soon be on your way to a permanent full time position. Please get back to me and let me know how you make out.
The best part of the whole, is that in general you lose sight of the fact that we are all in this together. Somehow, even though it's not on a good note, but a sense of being one with others gives me a good feeling , that at-least I'm not in this by myself.
Sharing this turn in events gives me hope.
Slightly disabled , and sometimes not reliable I wouldn't want anyone to hire me. I would love to find something I could do to earn a few dollars on my own and in my own time. Hopefully I will create or find something that I can do. Thanks for the writing. I'm 64 , but the same person inside as when I was 12. At twelve I enjoyed babies and 90 year old people. Everyone has usefulness and most all encounters offer some memorable shared moments. Feel free to write more about your company. I sure would like to know what it produces. I need coffee sometimes to go to sleep, it relaxes me because it is warm. I'll have to start taking wine breaks if I should decide to work for you.
love it bye...
Ma Moo - You have shrunk the whole problem down to one simple sentence. The distillation of the whole situation is; "I'm 64, but the same person inside as when I was 12."
As life wears us down and infirmities slow us down, we do tend to forget that we are the same person inside. Our music gets goes out of fashion and our cars get old, but our thoughts are always new and have no expiration date. You have a fresh take on things...why not write us a hub on your thoughts? Happiness may not be a puppy or two kinds of ice cream ... it might be a warm cup of coffee!
Thanks for reading and for the record; our company is "Clear Bright n Shiny" - it is an all natural jewelry polish and eyeglass cleaner that we sell in select BJs Wholesale Clubs as well as in fairs, trade shows and flea markets. For the summer of 2011 we are doing flea markets on Cape Cod at Dick and Ellie's in South Dennis and in Wellfleet on outer Cape Cod, and in the town of Raynham in Southeastern Massachusetts. One of our best demonstrators is 84 years old. Formerly affiliated with Boston's most famous joke shop, he often sells our product with an arrow through his head or with a fake mustard squeezejar in his pocket. If you go to youtube you can see a video of "Clear Bright n Shiny".
Hello World, welcome to 60. What a new surprise to find you are out of work, and not hireable. Thanks for the eye opening that their are others just like me out there.
Sincerely,
Margaret J. Pappas
Hi Margaret. I am so glad you joined the club. There are no dues - you have already paid them!!! Thanks for reading. Our problems as seniors are silent ones. We have no real advocates, no knights to fight for us. Wait until you have to go on medicare. They don't even tell you what it is, how to apply for the various parts, etc.
You know, I am so upset about what 'they' do to us that I would march on Washington - if my feet weren't so d..n sore! Keep smiling. Best of luck to you.
Bill,
Wonders still active. A larger, more employee focused company has found me and appreciates experience over cheap labor. It's a better company, w/benefits et al, than I have ever worked for. For all those that gather here...keep the faith!!
Doug
Doug, I am giving you a standing "O" for your upbeat attitude and for staying in the battle even when it was looking bad. I remember that horrible company you interviewed with two months ago. Congrats on the new job. You deserve it. Thanks for sharing the good news with us.
Bill, You are an inspiration! Nuff said
I enjoyed reading every single entry.I am 81,grateful not to have to look for a job,but see it all the time
all around me.I guess,it really does not matter what State you are in.Even as a regular consumer you can see it: everything: clothes,etc.,is always geared towards
certain age-groups and it certainly does not include us!
Maria, thanks so much for reading. I got a real laugh today from a guy on the radio. Here on Cape Cod, we are cleaning up debris from Hurricane Irene and the radio guy said the towns are looking for senior citizens to volunteer to help in the clean up. He said since we have nothing else to do, we would probably enjoy helping out. I felt like it was a patronizing insult to us seniors. It seemed like he was saying that we are only good enough to clean up AFTER the party, but not good enough to BE INVITED TO THE PARTY. Maybe I am getting too bitter and too sensitive. But I don't think so!!!
Well, being only 55 and still not able to acquire any type of job I certainly like the idea even though I never really considered my self as old as I've gotten from lot younger interviewers. There time will come. So, seems as society just wants us to die off before 50 so no one will draw the SS they put into. Working till 70 all depends on the job. Sure if one has a cushy office position but, a brick layer or or physical career I'd love to see any of the politicians do a labor job at 70.
Anna you are so right. The ideal is for us all to work until 70 plus but many jobs are too physically demanding. They want to relegate us to the lowest paying, unskilled jobs.
Good one Hub!
I have an idea that will only require a plan A.
Plan A: Surfing the internet, texting and listening to Ipads with headphones is prohibited. Company policy.
That should get rid of all the under 60 kids!
Right On RC!! We'll fire 'em just for owning an Ipad.
Hey Billrrr,
Lost a company, Lost a wife, Lost part of a colon, Lost a job, Lost (about to)UI. Lost (about to)house. HEY! Maybe I am one of The Lost Boys (never did want to grow up).
Hey! a lot of this sounds familiar!?! OH! YEH! I just read the last two years of comments.
Another "thread" through these comments is "No one cares".
You are right, and if we don't "come together" (does that give a hint of my age??)
AARP is close "but no cigar"!
I would like to stay in contact with this site, these are the best comment and responses I have found.
I am going to sign up, but holladay at ymail dot com will get to me.
OK here I go to "sign up".
Hi Grog. I guess we are just a bunch of losers! We lose our hair, our teeth, and other things I do not care to mention.
A group of us old guys were standing around last week in Cape Cod, talking about our illnesses. One man in his early 70's, almost in tears, had this to say....
"Fellas. I need Viagra. Don't laugh at me. It's not for what you think. I just need to get some blood flowing down there. I am experiencing serious shrinkage! I can't even stand up to go anymore. And when I sit down, it dribbles all over me."
We felt bad for him....but not bad enough to stop us from tossing a few zingers. "Lose fifty pounds and it will seem much bigger and you won't need the Viagra," one wag joked.
"Don't bother to lose the weight," another guy chimed in, "Just get yourself some diapers."
We all had a few laughs at our friend's expense and before we were through, we had him laughing too.
Grog, we have to laugh. It hurts too much if we don't.
I hope someone does this. Im only 28 and I agree with you 100 percent. This country is throwing away its experiece for lower pay and guess what we get stuck with the same job for half price. In arab countries if your over 45 they cast you out of society and there are cities on the outskirts of town where the "seniors" live as they are no longer considered useful. Hope we arent heading that direction.
I just wanted to thank you .... love your blog! It reminds me a lot of my father 72 who is still a big part of the family business. I need to have my whippersnapper (58) read this blog. I'm 44 ... and I just wonder how we might get the word out about "Senior" run businesses ... I know my family would prefer to support businesses who are run by mature adults who still want to work. I for one would rather buy from someone who wants to work rather than someone who whines about how much more difficult the "real world" is compared to college.
Many thanks for joining in John. Congratulations, at 28 you have knowledge and compassion that many people never get. A large percentage of the seniors who are forced onto Social Security would give up the check in a split second if they were given a chance at a 'real' job.
Kimm you are great. Thanks for the nice words and for the Senior support. Kudos to your Dad for still doing battle in the business world. It so beats sitting home watching tv, counting your pills, and seeing your waist get bigger and your brain get smaller.
I was watching a program on "ION" television and decided to look up the network's program schedule on line. I 'googled' ION and here's what came up for the description of the channel...
'ION Television is a national television network featuring general entertainment for adults from 25-54'
I guess this means we cannot view ION if we are under 25 or over 54.
In the past 5 years I have sent out over 500 resume's via the internet. I got two interviews and hardly any other contact. I was in a full time job I did not like, and then was put on part time. Recently, I just resigned as it was costing me more to get to work (wear and tear on the car, tolls, clothes, etc) than my take home pay. I am nearly 62 so will apply for social security soon. I went to college last in life thinking it was going to help in my career but now I wish I had the money I spent on that as it never paid off. I guess we are all supposed to die once we reach this age. Maybe 40 will be the new 60 instead of the other way around--what boomers are experiencing may be the new norm for younger people. The 12 year olds via technology will be taking their jobs next!
Hi Karen. Thanks for joining in. I wish you had better news for us. Don't write off that education yet. Something may come along soon for you. Have you considered retail? Crazy hours and you work weekends, but you could rise up fast in a company like BJs or one of the TJX companies - Maxx, Marshall's, Homegoods etc. See if there are any Distribution Centers near you. They are always looking for Supervisors and middle management people. The pay is good and the benefits are very good. Karen, 62 really is still young enough for you to score a good gig. Forget the resumes - go out in person and knock down some doors. Try it and let me know how you make out.
Great idea!! Listen I am an American living in the United Kingdom. How about us talking about doing business out there. Or I can help set up one in Chicago, which I will be traveling back and forth to this year. Contact me at JamesRabiola@gmail.com
Hi James. Thanks for reading and for your support. Travelling on business between Chicago and London seems like a pretty good gig! If you are doing any hiring, think white and gray!
Im 46 years old and it seems people don't want to hire me because of my age. So I will come work for you gladly.
Hi Cynthia. Thanks for reading. It's a sad commentary on the business world if they are starting to consider 46 old!!! You have 20 years of work ahead of you. If you need a job, try BJs Wholesale Club or Costco as a demonstrator. You get to demo food products and give away free stuff. Everyone will love you because it's food and it's free!!!
Also BJs does not care if you are 46 or 96. They are very age friendly. Shaws Supermarkets (if there is one near you) or Stop & Shop do demos. Any market in your area will most likely have demos. Ask the manager to point you to the demo company. Good luck. You are still young and you can succeed.
What a wonderful idea!! I am 60, sold my home to move to Florida to marry. The economy fell and busted his business as I was ready to make the move. Unfortunately, the pressure was too much for him. He lost the house we were to live in, and I lost all my investment in it, too. I moved to a tiny cabin I had on the river. Low and behold a tornado came through and wipe out the little village. I am lucky to be alive! So now I'm without work, health insurance, or a home. It has been difficult and heartbreaking. I see the same thing, although very young at heart and high in spirit, they see my age and then I don't hear from them for an interview. So, I can certainly relate. Now I am pretty much broke, and don't know where to turn. I'm still looking for work! Thanks for writing this wonderful hub!! Any one close to Norman, OK want to start an over 55 business...I'm all for it. We need to stick together. Much love to all and God bless each and everyone.
If life were a tree, all your branches would be shorn off and half your trunk cut away. Such horrible bad luck is heartbreaking. RiversMelody, I can tell that you still have spirit and vitality. Hang in there. There are millions of seniors with a lot of money, who just sit around getting old. Wouldn't it be great if they would open up a "senior friendly" company? They could manufacture products and market them as "made in the U.S.A. by Old Folks". Everybody would buy their merchandise.
As to the Oklahoma weather that destroyed your cabin, I know a bit about it from spending some time at Fort Sill(in Lawton). Both my sons military careers took them there. I saw some really scary skies but did not personally witness any tornadoes.
I am 62 yrs old and dislocated from my job when the community bank where I worked the past 4 years failed. The bank who took over kept me until the computer system were merged then got rid of me. There last words when they let me know were to tell me what a "great lady" I was then hand me a cardboard box with my belongings. I've taken the test for state employment and done well, even had a couple of interviews but notice their look(say she looks like my mother) when I walk into the room for the interview. Then I can see I am out of the running before saying a word. After 40 plus years in the work world and 10 years in a management position what is happening to me and other senior is criminal!!
Hang in there. Keep trying. I hope and pray you will find a great job again. You deserve it.
Margaret IT IS CRIMINAL AND NOBODY (meaning the politicians) CARES. Why isn't it illegal for businesses to ask what year we graduated from high school? Why don't companies get fined for discriminating against us? Why isn't there a quota system demanding that ten per cent of a company's employees must be senior citizens?
I can run a mile in 12 minutes and I am close to 70 years old. I can walk two miles in about 26 minutes..and I do it most every day. But I can't get a job because I am too old. I would gladly give back the tiny little Social Security check that I get; if I could get a 'real' job again.
Bill, I feel this link points out exactly what you are talking about in the discrimination factor. If you wish, be sure to read the comment from devonnoll. Yes, I agree with you 100 percent. Our chances may be slim to be hired, but to group together by community would be great and supercede the norm. Everyone here has skills and great life experiences to make these productive moves. Where there is a will there is a way! :) No one is ever too old to be creative and have useful information to share.
I read the link RiversMelody and applaud the author for a clear description of the age discrimination problem. She reaffirmed what I am saying, this problem is TOLERATED and nobody cares.
I was laid off from my job during cancer treatment in my mid fifties. I lost all my savings
(401K, CDs, savings accounts etc) during the time of four operations and radiation. I beat the cancer but was never able to beat the age discrimination. I never worked a real job again.
I have actually tried to start a senior friendly company. My business partner and I developed a product (Clear Bright n Shiny) that we make and sell. I managed to get it in the BJs stores' Roadshow program. Believe it or not, we had to shut the program down because we could not find people willing to work on a commssion basis. (We had no money to pay regular salaries and benefits). I ran help wanted ads and tried a dozen other things to get the company off the ground. I dreamed of a manufacturing and sales force consisting of nothing but silver hairs and baldies. Alas, I had to terminate the BJs Club part of the business. We now sell the product only in the summer at Cape Cod Flea Markets and on Ebay. In May we will start again to demo the product at the Flea Markets and again we will try to get other people interested in joining our group. I hope for great results this season.
This is not funny. I want a job and is proves that the older worker is not considered an asset to a company. I don't need a nap at mid day. I'm already working all day trying to find a job. Thanks a lot America you used me up and now shut me out. I'm sorry that the rest of you are all in a coma. Wake up you don't need to stop working unless you have abused yourself when you we young.
Hey Joe. We feel your pain. Check back with us and tell us how you are doing. Good Luck.
Wish this wasn't so true.After 30years on the job I was terminated as well as most of the others with more than 25 yrs seniority.I have exhausted all funds unemployment retirement etc if not for my son I would be homeless.I would love to be a demonstrator but my back is so weak I can't stand for long periods but I could do receptionist work or phone but can't even get an interview
Sorry to hear this sad news Eva. If there is a fairly good sized newspaper in your town, you could enquire about selling for them. Often they have telephone jobs, marketing subscriptions to the paper. They give you a script and they offer a really low price for new subscribers, so it is an EASY sell. This might be a good fit for you.
Check for telemarketing jobs. Read the classifieds and Craigslist. There are phone jobs that you could easily do, though I admit they are not always easy to find.
Good luck and check back with us and let us know when you find something that works for you.
oh..funny ...where is the real job? Entrepreneurs over 60 have nothing to loose. Rise up and live!!
Some retired people over 60, who begin to yearn for their working days, take volunteer jobs. Satisfying as that may be, I wish they would instead turn their efforts into starting up real companies for senior citizens.
I hope I live long enough to see an employment sign that says, "Help Wanted - Must be over 60 to apply".
I worked for HP and Agilent Technologies for 31 years and they laid me off before I could get ss at 62. So it has been three years and still can't get a full time job. Lost my home and living out of suitcases. I am 60 so I want to be the first in line for your company. Spreckles opened a new store in Sunnyvale, ca and I went with my son. We were all outside in line for a quick interview. Well the young people like my son were told to go to this hotel for a second interview that day. I sat in the car and watched all the young people go into that hotel for there second interview. I thought I should drop dead because I can't support myself anymore. That is just one story since I was laid off in 2009.
Hello Gay. It's a sad, sad story that is happening every day. My situation was similar, I was laid off at age 57 in the middle of cancer treatments. I beat the cancer but was never able to get a real job again. I went through my 401K, savings, and CDs. By the time I hit 62 and began to collect a reduced Social Security, I was broke. NOBODY (in government) cares! Nobody (in government) wants to help us. For two straight years, we got no increase in Social Security even though heating and gas cost soared. We live in a wonderful country, but the U.S. should be ashamed of the way older workers are treated and thrown out like greasy rags.
I am appalled by the current situation for the "older" worker. I too was laid off in 10/2010 at 58 years old. My credentials are impeccable so I get more interviews then anyone I know, but as soon as they figure out how old I am I get the shut out. It is absolutely blowing my mind. Are we just supposed to lay down and die because we are "old"?
Ski, sadly the answer is YES. We are supposed to lay down and die. We are supposed to take the Social Security "benefit" and shut up. Nobody wants to hear about it and nobody wants to help. I am nearing 70, walk two miles a day, and still want a 'real' job. Nobody will hire me. In my own way, I have been fighting for us for over 12 years. Starting a senior friendly company has been my dream for all that time. My efforts have met with limited success so far, but I continue to try.
On a federal level, what do you think about quotas? What if companies were forced to hire ten per cent old people? We are a minority. We are an oppressed minority. Apple, Ibm et al should be populated by at least ten per cent 'grays'!
I just read all of this and am so glad to find truth being spelled out on the internet about what's happening in this country. To me, that's a start even if it started years ago. Bill you are a hero. Thank you for answering the posts. I'm going onto 66, professional with degrees, working till 39, then married, had a child, stayed at home, volunteering and part time work, hubby became an attorney succeeding, this was all to our life in America where I was then looking to refresh my career, when in 2008, he had a sudden fall resulting in a brain injury-his care now in a facility, 24/7. AND THEN the new Reality hit when I tried to get work. I believe we could turn this around but bit by bit...new ideas needed like you Bill and e.g. focus on local companies, like devonnoll's post, firm clever ideas...don't give up I say!...we seniors are so worth all the depth of life and knowledge we know, possess and have to share and being cherished, respected.
I just read all of this and am so glad to find truth being spelled out on the internet about what's happening in this country. To me, that's a start even if it started years ago. Bill you are a hero and thank you for answering the posts. I'm going onto 66, professional with degrees, working till 39, then married, had a child, stayed at home plus volunteering and part time work, hubby became an attorney, we were succeeding, this was our life in America. Then I was looking to refresh my career and in 2008, hubby had a sudden fall resulting in a brain injury-cared now 24/7 in a facility. AND THEN the NEW Reality hit when I tried to get work. I believe we could turn this around but bit by bit in our own areas...new ideas needed like what you Bill have done but it hasn't been ez for you has it...so I wish you the best. If we start to focus buying and developing on a local level ala devonnoll's post, firm clever ideas...don't give up I say!...we seniors are so worth all the depth of life and knowledge we know, possess and have to share and being cherished, respected, keep seeking where it will be revered.
Thankyou so much for the kind words and the encouragement. I am trying to make as much noise about this as I can. It's a shame that we have to talk about legislating our rights to a job - but we do! Most of the retired people I know, want to work but cannot get a real job. It's a national shame and disgrace.
Great hub! I think going over to Thailand to teach English as a foreign language was one of the best decisions I made after I retired from the government. I feel younger working with younger teachers and students, and people do value me for my life skills. The extra money also comes in handy. Maybe more people should consider working overseas in EFL teaching where the demand exceeds the supply.
Thanks for your great input Paul. Where should interested folks go for information and requirements? Did you speak several languages? How did you find out about the program?
Bill, they could begin by reading my most recent hub on Tips for Getting EFL jobs in Thailand. It's not necessary to speak several languages, but it would be beneficial to have a college degree. I have been working in TEFL most of my life with my start in Taiwan in the 1970s.
Unbelievable! I'm 60 and I know it's hard to get a job at my age but I had no idea it is so wide spread. Thanks for this site as it at least gave me a feeling of belonging. I play a little music on the weekend but my wife and I a struggling. Hire me when you get this business up and running, I' managed a shipping/receiving dept. until a year and a half ago...great site thanks again :-)
Thanks very much Phil for checking in. I hope those music gigs really start paying off. In the entertainment business it seems to be okay to get older. It's working for Stephen Tyler, the Stones and Beatles, Ringo and Paul. Best of luck to you.
Wow, you guys are singing my song. I was up until last month working 7days a week. I work security at a casino (they are always hiring) but the pay isn't great and I just quit working at an attorneys office. The pay was equal to the casino but the co-workers were from h*ll. I was tired of being the butt monkey so I quit. Now I'm trying to find another job that pays as much as both or at least another job. I may have to eat crow and go back to the law office which I would HATE. I have banking experience but banking is poor pay and I also have a commercial drivers license and drove a truck solo for 2 years. I've been trying to get back into that but they say they can't insure me. The pay is good but then again, 7 days a week. I never have a life. I'm 58 and people look at me like I am a disease. They don't say I'm too old but you can see the "look". I'm probably going to have to work till the day I die. I have less now than I have ever had in my life. This wasn't my plan for my life. I'd like to live with my daughter and her family but they have their life. It takes more than one income to live and unfortunately I have to earn both incomes! I'm tired. I've thought that if I could buy a big house and rent out rooms to other people in "my boat" and we could maybe make it. Sorta a elder commune! I live in Ardmore, OK, about an hour from Norman where RiversMelody lives. She is the suburb of Oklahoma City. There should be lots of extra jobs there but at our age it's hard to start over. I'm just plain TIRED and I feel like a fish out of water, just flopping around looking for a direction. I've tried to find a job on the internet, looked at home jobs, I even applied at wal-mart but I didn't pass their pre test. Apparently you have to answer extremely agree or extremely disagree to all the questions. There can't be any less than totally committed with them. I'm so broke I can't even pay attention. I feel worthless and like my presence isn't required in this world. This is a sad state for our nation. They have the ads for the throwaway kids, well we are the throwaway society of seniors!
Kathy, the situation is horrible. At 58, you are young enough to have many work years ahead of you. Don't lose faith. Your idea about renting out rooms is a great one. You don't even have to own the house. I have a friend who RENTS a four bedroom home. She asked her landlord if she could take in room mates and the landlord gave the okay. My friend now takes in over $400 a week from the renters! It's better than a job. Keep looking, you will find something good.
Thanks Bill. I don't know if I could even rent a big house at this point. I had to file bankruptcy late last year and my credit is zip. I'd have to have first and last months rent plus deposit for utilities, etc. I lost my house in the bankruptcy but I still have bills that equal to over $1300 a month and that doesn't even include food. I clear about $1200 a month. I feel like a total failure in life. I feel like my kids think I'm a loser even though they never say so. I have no very little retirement and if social security goes away then I guess I'll be homeless or like I said before, work till I drop dead. I guess we are better off than third world countries but I just really have a hard time accepting that this is my life now. Where are the promises of our predecessors? I've lost everything that I cared about, most of my belonging is in storage because the place I'm living in is so small. I used to love to work in the yard but with my tools in storage across town, it doesn't make it convenient and why fix up someone else's yard. (and who can afford to?) I want my life back! I've had a decent life but I just don't know what to do any more. I have no direction and I've filled out the job apps. but never get a reply and the stupid apps take over 1.5 hours to fill out. What was the line from the Sharshank Redemption movie...I'm up for rejection next week? At least in prison you get 3 meals a day and a place to sleep...but of course that isn't an option. I hate sending in resume's. I can nail a face to face interview but now day's you can't even get in the door. There has to be a better way. We need to have a national senior rally, complete with posters and a march. The one million senior march to protest the treatment of seniors in the workplace and in this country. We think we have come a long way but discrimination has many faces and age discrimination is HUGE!
Kathy, try to find ways to reduce your expenses. Food is costly and there are quite a few ways to save. First, you probably will qualify for the SNAP program. Since your bills exceed your income, there's a good chance you can get up to $200 a month in food benefits. Secondly, check out the food pantries in your area. There's almost no paperwork and you get food the very day that you go in. The food is good and it is plentiful. Look online for a pantry near you. In Massachusetts, the best pantries are run by the Greater Boston Food Bank. The volunteers that run the pantries are usually retired people who are very friendly and understanding. You may also find that you can network with the people there and get some good leads and information on other services that are available. In the wintertime you can get help with your heating bill. You may qualify for a reduced rate from your electric company.
Consider going in with another person and renting a house. If there are two of you, you may be able to qualify for a bigger house, and then be able to rent out one or two rooms. Keep plugging and write back to us soon with some good news. Best of luck to you.
To Kathy, Hello fellow Oklahoman! I hear you loud and clear on the trying to get a job. I don't know if you would be interested, but there are young single mom's out there that DO have jobs, but little money. They get help from the state. If you call DHS and go through their program for childcare, they will pay you to take care of children. You can do this out of your home, and that cuts work expenses. Even just one child would help you, along with the other things Bill so kindly suggested. These children need loving homes and to be taken care of while their mom's work.
I have applied for so many jobs it would make your head swim. Even though I have a great work experience on my resume and had a very good paying job before my world totally ended, they won't hire me. Network, circulate, do not give up. I would love to give you my email address so we could chat, but truly don't want it public on here. Keep you chin up and don't give up. Never give up! You are not a failure. You are just going through a rough time. One simply has to get creative when the world says..... "NO"... I say let our creativity flow.
Stay strong!
Debbie
Thanks for the great ideas Rivers. I hope Kathy follows up with you.
LOL, I love this. I'm 59 and was the oldest in my shop, I did web development and telecom. I'm ready to give up the interview process as being in this field is a sin at my age. Just the sight of me is enough for them to tell me to leave (you can just tell LOL). Your article is exactly how I feel but I do intend to go into business for myself as we all should do this - set your mind to it and do it!!! Trust me you can! I can create websites, build computers, program an entire phone system and I'm still damned healthy and get around better than the fat young ones they still have working there. Once my business takes off, I will definitely hire older people as I think they are smarter and better employees. Keep up your great attitude!!! I enjoyed this :)
Thanks for the great comment xiz. With your incredible Positive Mental Attitude, I have no doubt that YOU WILL SUCCEED. Keep pushing and please check back with us from time to time.
I love all the comments. It is to bad that they are mostly true. I was in auto parts sales up until 3 years ago and was fired. I wasn't one of the "good ole boys". I couldn't find a job and had to go on social security. I finally found a part time job with an auto parts company but no benefits. It is extremely hard to make it on ss. I wss getting unemployment also but that ran out. I am a veteran, and a diabetic. Can't get insurance but have some VA medical but they won't touch anything with diabetes. A full time job with benefits and I could get insurance after 90 days or so and they have to take me. Just like so many of the other comments nobody gives a damn about the senior citizen. We paid our dues and it doesn't mean a thing. I am glad there is a company out there that will hire seniors. Thanks so much.
Thanks Steve.
A lot of people want us to just shut up and sit in our rocking chairs.
Retirement is a great thing for those that can afford it; but sadly, many seniors can't. They live in poverty or near poverty and are afraid to run the heat in cool weather or use too much electricity.
All we are saying is that we should get a fair chance at a job.
I am from India. You all have noted during elections etc the leaders become very touchy regardinf ethics and familyu bondages , treating the elders withrespect and care etc. Election of President in USA is close ,do rally to the president and senators etc to constitute a permanent body to continue to teach and inspire the citizens of the forgotten sense of ethics and humanity in society. The leaders ,now at this juncture cannot afford to ignore it and are likely to succumb to the idea and sanction a corpus with yearly increase to pull on this honest attempt. I being the original proponent deserve to be coopted forthwith with a pay of 67000 and a quarter to live as I am 67 now . I am serious pl confirm R N PANDIT /India
TKIMWRSVC 3 years ago
since i only turn 46 this year guess i have time