Ageism? A thing or no? I am a female with 25+ years of tech experience that cannot get an interview. Yes I am 54! I still have a lot to offer!!!

likeupliftinghelpful
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

I’m 53, have been in Tech all of my career. I am currently interviewing for a new role. I did similiar to what other posters noted. I dropped 10 years off my resume, stripped the dates off my degree. I also narrowed my search to just a few other tech companies. I got interviews at all, but the key I found to get visibility was to find the roles I was really interested in and start networking in LinkedIn to get to the recruiter or hiring manager for that role. Still progressing but I am in the running for all three. 🤞🏼 good luck and don’t give up!

likeuplifting

In my last resume I stated in my summary that I have over 20 years of experience, but in the job section I only listed the last 15 or so with a note of more information available on request. Maybe thst helped, maybe it didn't, but putting my internship from 1995 in probably won't help.

likesmarthelpful

In general, yes, ageism is a problem in tech.
I did a similar thing as the respondent above with my resume and I also believe it’s a helpful approach.

like

Yes, it is a real thing. You are not imagining it. Sadly, one of the tactics I used in my last transition was using a gender neutral form of my name on my resume and submissions. It increased initial response rates by 35%. In the end, I ended up accepting a much lower role basically trashing all career aspirations although the pay was the same. Do everything you can to present younger, drop 10 years experience off your resume, don't list dates on your education, freshen your appearance if needed, watch your references and words in interviews. I had the impression that tech were all trying to find seasoned women so a transition would be easy. The rhetoric doesn't match the reality of the process. Try Facebook-- they've publicly published some very aggressive goals for women hiring in tech and seem to be more open than some right now.

likesmart

I’m not suggesting it is right nor good. It’s awful. What I am saying is that the discrimination is real and there is a choice to play the game in a way that can help your chances to work through the muck or not according to personal comfort level. It’s easier to take a moral high ground when you don’t have bills to pay and need a job. A professional exec job coach once told me that your goal in an interview is to make yourself as least objectionable as possible. Does it hurt to degrade your “true self,” sure it does. My goal for the post was just to share options to overcome. Doesn’t mean they don’t suck but they can help success.
PS freshen wasn’t meant to be creepy, more to suggest appearing modern doesn’t hurt.

likesmart

It is hard to tell as we can't see your process of applying. There are so many variables and you might simply have wrong positioning, applying to jobs that don't match your resume/ portfolio and so on. Also, if you put all 25 years of experience - are you sure all 25 are relevant to the roles you are applying to? I am assuming you are at executive level then. If yes, your best is to get jobs through network and recommendations. Also through specialized agencies that help executives. It's hard to get a job at this level by just simply applying. If not, you probably need to filter out some experience and leave only relevant.

P.S. I hope age/ photo and all those things are not on your resume.

like

Yes- ageism is a thing! I am exactly the same age. I was laid off at the beginning of the pandemic and only found a JOB 4 months ago- mind you my tenure at previous positions has been long, no job hopping. I interviewed multiple times and only when I found a female CEO was I hired.

like

I think you are the OP though?

likefunny

The good news is that tech companies are now cautioning hiring managers against filtering for “cultural fit.” Why? Everyone knows it’s a dog whistle for discrimination. There is a strong push to check internal biases.

Employers are leery of older workers in tech because they worry their experience is with older technology, and that they’ll be inflexible and won’t adapt. (To be fair, this happens a lot. Someone who spent 20 years mastering something often can’t handle that it’s old news.) I assume you’re on LinkedIn and have a social media presence. I suggest including social media links and a photo, but present “youthful” instead of “young.” A recent candid of you doing something high-energy and fun will be more effective than a stiff headshot from 10 years ago. I scrub experience from my resume that’s over 20 years old. When you describe your skill set, put the emphasis on the newest technology and how quickly you ramped and are eager to do more.

Also, make sure your resume uses a contemporary structure and a short, bulleted format. When you list the applications and admin tasks you’re experienced in, be ruthless. Microsoft Word proficiency isn’t a “skill” anymore. Look at younger colleagues’ resumes and see if they’re including the same apps.

One common benefit to older workers (which shouldn’t be a consideration, but hey, unconscious bias is why this thread exists) is we usually don’t have young kids vying for our time. In interviews I’ve found ways to slyly mention my flexibility and ability to focus on my career.

One more tip: This may not be age related. Make sure you read contemporary articles and watch videos on how to rock a screening call. It’s very different today from 10 years ago. Don’t assume you can answer questions spontaneously and your experience will carry the day. Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for specific phrases and response styles.

likesmart

Honestly, in tech, there’s no promise of longevity from an employee and with all the importance of D&I, no one should know your actual age so I’d say it’s unlikely. How are you applying? Are you working with recruiters? Your network? Who is connecting you to the right folks to get an interview? Are you doing phone screens? What’s your resume look like?

likehelpful

In tech, your experience screams your age. Think of the layers of hardware and software evolved. And as a woman you will always be too cute /unattractive, too young /old, too strong&loud/mousy&unassertive, too motherly or sisterly. You have to work against that. Though, I have known some women who could play into that and still succeed.

like

Frustrated, but yes, my resume is professionally done .

like

Although I'm a newbie to tech, I do believe age is is a thing because it is a thing everywhere in society along with other forms of discrimination. However, I do believe you're doing the right thing to get feedback here from others who have been through this and come out the other side

like

Yes, depending on where you are the impact will vary. Sadly data shows that ageism is real, also in tech.
Interest interviews and networking is THE KEY.
My oldest client was in her 70s who got bored in retirement. She landed a great role doing what was worth it for her.

like

I agree with everything said here. I am 51 and ageism is a real systemic problem. Not only is it more challenging to get interviews for a position but getting a promotion and salary increase becomes harder the older you get.

uplifting

Be true to yourself. Market your skills and experience (in that order). Don’t talk yrs or age. Most important KNOW GOD has a plan for you more wonderful than you can imagine. Which may be a complete career change 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

like

In tech, unfortunately, there is definitely such a thing.

Related Posts

What’s the average salary for first year transfer pricing analysts in USDC? I heard USDC pays lower but when I saw my offer letter it’s really shocking. I want to negotiate my salary Monday, I’m a little shy about it but I’m gonna ask the recruiter... it’s only 47,500. I was expecting 60,000-65,000 or at least 60k... how appropriate is it to negotiate higher salary? Do you think I’d lose the offer?

like

Any techniques or ways to get a job abroad directly?
I am sure I can crack an interview.
YOE - 5+
Primary skill- Intelligent automation & RPA UiPath.

Can anybody help and share their experiences in how one achieved this?

like

Today i had such a bad experience with CGI. If the panel is not ready to interview then why they are scheduling and wasting my time. The interviewer attitude was very rude which me made me frustrated Nd came out of interview in middle

like

What's the Hike and Bonus this year for PwC AC (Bangalore)

like

Salary for a CA fresher in TIAA India as an internal control analyst

What is a JL6 PM salary range in Infosys?
What is the yearly bonus component in it.

like

What should the compensation be for a client onboarding manager in a big financial company?

like

Anyone here work at Wellington Management and is willing to chat with me about a Data Science / Quant role? Recruiter reached out and I’m considering whether I should interview for it. Currently work at a Global Macro Desk of a MM hedge fund (think Millennium, Balyasny, Pt72) and looking to understand more about firm culture, investment process, career prospects to the extent possible and comp. Thanks!

likehelpful

Hi everyone! Health tech consultant with 2.5+ years of experience … Looking to connect with any one who’s company is hiring implementation or strategic consultants in this field… ready to leave current company after not feeling heard and/or valued for months now. Looking to increase salary and *hopefully* find unlimited PTO wherever I go

like

Hiring managers- what wows you at design presentation interviews? I’m hearing a lot of “cohesive story” and “show your process”- would love to hear stories about candidates that stood out to you.

like

Hello,

I'm currently looking for new job in React JS Development for Remote or Kolkata location. Please do reffer if there is any openings. Mentioned details below:

Total Experience: 6 years

Skills: React, Angular, Redux, jQuery, JavaScript, TypeScript, GraphQL.

Current CTC: 15L

Expected CTC: 18L (Negotiable)

Preffered Location: Remote / Kolkata

uplifting

What is the maximum compensation senior most Partners of consulting firms make in APAC consistently (not one off great year)?

likehelpfulfunny

Last month I was interviewed at Nagarro. I got the offer but I rejected and did not join. Sent the mail to recruiter.

A week ago I received a gift pack courier from Nagarro. What to do? Return or Keep since they didn't ask to return. 😅😄

Nagarro

Hello Fishes, its really strange to ask but I have no option left.
I have almost 2 years of gap in my career due to medical issues, but not its recovered and I am trying to rejoin again. I applied to so many places but has been seeing only rejections either due to gap and either due to my over qualification.
I am truly tired of applying and waiting for their call back and reverts, Its like getting into depression slowly slowly.
Is their any place where I can get hired soon. Please help me.

like

My present CTC is 7lpa and I am getting offer from startup for 8.3 lpa.
Should I get it and begin my notice period or just decline it as they are not in position to negotiate.
My yoe is 2.8 and I am an automation tester

like

I was offered a salary of $76,000 for an associate analyst role at FINRA. This would be my first time transitioning into this type of role. I have about 2 years of brokerage experience.

Do you guys think this is a fair market value for the salary?

like

Hello, what questions are usually asked in a tableau developer interview?

I’m a technical consultant but sick of the low pay and bad benefits at SI firms. I have some opportunities at Big 4 with better pay & benefits. Will it derail my career to move to Big 4?

like

Hi All,
I received offer letter from cognizant to join in upcoming week. Today I received call from another Hr that he want to proceed with the offer roll out. Confused . Can anyone help ?

**I have given cognizant interviews multiple times on Saturday and Sundays

like

When interviewing - is there a way to respectfully decline a take home case study that doesn't automatically result in disqualification from the candidate pool?

like

More Posts

Is anyone seeing a new rise in rsv and the flu? I’m worried it’s going to be another long winter with this tripledemic

like

Really need to go back to spelling! Anyone ever teach spelling words through Greek and Latin words? Or have any other suggestions? My district “gives up” on spelling around grade 3

like

Any recommendations for an anime from the manga? I recently saw the whole Naruto saga, and I have to say that I underestimated this genre a lot. I am a producer, and thanks to this my mind has been totally opened. Now I want more knowledge about this culture.

like
likefunny

I hate politics, which means I suck at Office Politics. Any advice, learning experiences, or insight for someone who knows he has to be better at it?

like

Who is excited about the finale of the mandalorian?

like

Does Morgan Stanley provide any reimbursement for certifications(AWS Cloud Practitioner,etc.)?

Time taken to become a partner in any of Big 4's?

As per my knowledge in EY it is 15 to 20 YOE

What’s the fewest number of days needed for IVF Stim injections? My wife is currently on day 5, so just curious what others have experienced. Thanks!

like

Does Long distance relationship ever work out? I've been in one and it lasted approximately 6 months. Would love to know if anyone has ever "made it work". Also if you have never been to one I'd love to hear what are your thoughts on LDR.

like

Anybody applied for an h1b transfer (COE, regular processing) recently and got approved? If so, what was your wait time? Currently waiting for mine but not sure how long to expect.

like

Anyone snag the John Mayer x Hodinkee gshock?

like

Hello all, I have two offers :-
1) General Ledger and Fixed assets Analyst at ChargePoint- 10 L + RSUs
2) Team Leader Reconciliation at Clifford Chance - 9.5 L + Yearly bonus.

Which one should I opt for? Any insights on the work culture in both organisations?

like

I think I have serious case of ADD. Meds don’t help me.I can’t focus at all if the meeting is boring. I keep zoning out, miss conversations, can’t sit still. It effects my work. Any advice?

like

How much max KPMG (KGS) would pay to a senior consultant for tech stack - Salesforce? YOE - 5 years

Larsen & Toubro Infotech If I get a Citi Bank project in LTI will I get manyata tech park as a work location ? Larsen & Toubro Infotech

like

Any speculation on what the upcoming org changes they’ll announce on the next town hall will mean for IFS?

like

Things to do in Nashville during Christmas?

like

Over 12 years of experience in Healthcare vía administration, any ideas or suggestions to transitioning over to becoming a consultant?

like

What have been some of your favorite books to teach in the classroom? Especially from POC authors!

like

Additional Posts in Women in Tech

How do you set your career on an upward trajectory in growth start up companies where experience and historical titles are not correlated? How do you gain influence as someone without a fancy title but plenty of contributions (which is thankfully noticed)?

like

Hello. My name is Deja. I’m 21 years old and trying to break into tech. I am currently studying through DataCamp on a scholarship and I LOVE it. I want to maximize this opportunity and go far with it but I’m not sure if all the ways to make it to a career. I’ve researched and also career searched but I’m still unsure on the best paths to take. If someone could help me narrow a focus I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you in advance.

like

Hello! Looking for book recommendations for how to manage people well. I’m starting my first job soon with direct reports and I want to be a good manager because I know how bad it can be to have a bad one. I really liked Radical Candor, so looking for recommendations from other managers for books that have really stuck with you and helped. I know it’s a hard skill to learn from a book, but better than nothing. Thanks!!

like

Senior Backend Engineer @ Better
Full-time, On-site (New York)/New York, NY
$150k - $220k
5+ years of experience in coding in at least one of these: Python, Golang, C++, Node.js
3+ years of experience contributing to the architecture and design of new and existing systems (architecture, design patterns, reliability, and scaling)
Familiar with Git, Docker, CI/CD, unit testing, agile development. Proficient in Golang and AWS services.

DM FOR DIRECT REFERRAL

like

Ok, I’ve come to the point where I’ve realized its ok to ask for help. Or, at least some advice. I’m just half a year into my PM journey…and I feel like im doing terrible at it. I’ve lost sight of what PMing is…I’m worried and dont know how to move forward. I want to be an amazing PM, but how?

likehelpful

Do you have a recommendation of trainings or books that help to improve verbal communication skills?

likehelpful

Hello, All! I'm looking for recommendations on inspirational content for women leaders. I follow TEDWomen, many podcasts, and the Women's Conference among other sources. I'd love to hear a fresh perspective on business, trends, tech, marketing, equality in the workforce, etc. I'd love to learn something new. I'm at the VP level and have started a couple of companies, so nothing too junior, but open to many topics. Please share any speakers, books, webinars, or events that you may come across.

likesmart

Happy NYE! Does anyone work at Meta (Facebook)? If so, would you be willing to refer me to a job? I'm happy to share a write-up on my qualifications. DM if you can! 😊

like

I don’t need to be recognized for my work. You can either give me props or you don’t have to. But recognizing someone else for my work sets me on fire🔥. Is there a term for this? I need tools to help me calm down in these situations. I have the same reaction for other people and their work.

like

Any advice on telling your boss you’re leaving your team? For context, I’m the 4th one leaving within a month (boring product, not toxic or anything), and the manager id be telling is my skip level, as my old manager left the team and I’m actually moving to his new team. Trying not to throw shade on my old (new? lol) manager bc I know that he spent all of his career in this department before moving. Is there any way to soften the blow, other than just giving a 2-3 week notice?

like

Does anyone know a good resume reviewer? I have paid for services but it just never seems right.

like

I received a job offer for a PM position with a base of $125K and a 10% bonus, fully remote and ok benefits. The parental leave is pretty bad, just FMLA and STD/LTD so the most I’d get is 60% of my salary for 12 weeks. I’ve cancelled most of my interviews except for one where the pay is $135K, 20% bonus, hybrid schedule, good benefits and 16 weeks fully paid parental leave. I’d like to start my family in a year or two - is it better to take the remote gig or the hybrid role with full paid leave?

I am looking to get any advice/tips on managing people. I just accepted a lead role and it’s my first time leading a team professionally. Thank you in advance!

like

Would anyone be able to provide a referral and/or provide insight for a Google Project Manager role? I just know this role would be perfect/a dream (based on the description) and I’m hustling looking for my way in to Google. Would appreciate any help so much!

like

Does anyone have experience interviewing with Playstation for a non-developer, non software engineer role? I’m in the final stages of a Product Management aligned role and I am trying to best prepare myself. The recruiter has been really great, informative, and supportive so far.

like

Hey Fish,

I was just wondering what your opinion was on the company Revature? I kind of wish I could do it, but I have two kids and cannot relocate. I’m just having a really hard time getting a job as an entry level front end developer. Does anyone know of a company like revature, but where you don’t have to relocate? Please let me know.

like

Considering an offer from Freddie Mac but they have an additional check for anyone who previously worked at @PWC. Anyone go through the additional check? Can they deny employment? The check is to ensure I or anyone they’re hiring doesn’t have internal knowledge on Freddie’s financials.

like

Facing a bit of a dilemma and looking for some advice. I recently took a new job and was told the role was a support engineer to interface between a large customer and internal developers for various company products. I have been here for a few months and I've been finding out that my real job is going to involve long protracted INTERNAL battles because the client is trying to hold us to regulations that were written 7, almost 8 years ago and the company hasn't put work (continued)

like

Hi! I'm looking to transition into an experience designer role after being a backend dev for the past four years! Feel free to connect if you know of any open roles at your current company 🤗

like

Did any of you make the jump or are thinking of moving into product management? Any tips on positioning myself for an exit opp in product management?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal