I'm 52, With White Hair...But I'm Not DEAD!"

As a Recruiter, I just have a few questions to ask for the sake of those who, like me, are beyond 50 years old. These questions are meant for serious debate, instead of an attempt to conjure argument:

1. Why do employers shy away from people over 50 years old?

2. What inappropriate questions have you faced, with the age issue, during a face-to-face interview?

3. What phrases have you heard used to avoid hiring you (considering you are completely qualified for the position)?

I stand 6’8” tall and have the tendency to attract positive (sometimes fun) attention no matter where I go (and yes, my hair is white). Not so fun with the following case:

Once during a job interview, I heard some comments that were blatantly illegal and if I didn’t let the interviewer know I knew they were illegal, they would have continued to trample all over me.

The interview ended quicker than they were prepared for, because I wouldn’t stand for that sort of questioning and I made it clear that I was not happy with them. Needless to say, I wouldn’t get the job and suggested that I would not consider ANY offer they WON’T be making based on their tactics. I also made it clear to the other 7 people out in the waiting room (yes, they all had white/gray hair) that this company’s deliberate disregard for experienced professionals may cause them some courtroom time! Six of them got up and walked out with me.

Let’s face it…a 20 year old may be able to handle a physical job better than one of us old coots, but what about our experience? What about our common sense? What about our dedication or our maturity? Where do YOU draw the line, especially when you NEED a job? What do you think?

About the Author:

Steven Coyne is the owner of The Job Hunter Group job board

Article courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates searching for entry level jobs and other career opportunities.