Caroline Madden, 60, recently secured a personal assistant role after a two-year job search that included approximately 500 rejections. Madden, who had not previously experienced employment difficulties, suspects age discrimination played a role in her prolonged job hunt, especially with the increasing use of artificial intelligence in hiring processes.
"Although it is tricky to pin the blame on age there have been too many instances when an initial application was rejected despite showing the right qualifications, ability and experience," Madden stated. "Age should be seen as a benefit with proven experience an asset. We don’t all just want to retire."
To navigate what she perceived as ageism, Madden modified her curriculum vitae (CV) and applications by omitting her date of birth and rebranding her O-level qualifications as GCSEs, a change that potentially obscured her age and indicated she was at least in her mid-50s. GCSEs replaced O-levels and CSE qualifications in 1986, with students beginning to take GCSE exams from 1988.
Madden also described encountering AI during interviews, including one instance where a realistic AI image of a woman asked questions, though the lip synchronization was noticeably off. She failed this AI-driven test.
"These video calls seem particularly popular for public sector roles, where civil servants often work from home," Madden observed, noting that older individuals more accustomed to in-person interactions might find technology-assisted interviews challenging. Experts advise practicing with the necessary software to become comfortable with these formats.
Leveraging Experience
Madden's career path includes running a pub in her early twenties, working as a PA, and retraining in her late thirties to provide pastoral care and career advice at a school. She also wrote a lifestyle column for the Hull Daily Mail. After a period away from the workforce due to cancer treatment, she returned to PA roles, including working as a production team assistant for music events.
Recruitment experts emphasize turning a lifetime of experience into an attractive asset for employers. Hannah Cornish, a recruitment expert for CV-Library, suggests that while ageism can be a hurdle, older workers can leverage their experience positively. "It is vital to stay confident and focused on what you offer – so practising your approach is important," Cornish said. "Rather than listing years of experience on a CV, focus on achievements, with details of measurable results and transferrable skills."
Cornish also recommends tailoring a CV to specific job requirements and seeking feedback on rejections to refine the document. A CV should ideally be a single-page summary of skills and achievements presented visually.
Bypassing Application Barriers
Personal and business life coach Dr. Sally Ann Law suggests methods to bypass AI-driven application filtering. "Get yourself in front of an actual person rather than just filling in application forms," Law advised. "Contact organisations and arrange to meet representatives in person. There are often trade events and local talks to attend where you can introduce yourself."
Cornish also points to the value of networking with former colleagues and exploring word-of-mouth vacancies, which can lead to personal recommendations. Dealing with rejection is a normal part of the job search, and Law encourages job seekers to "use all the tools available to get that job."
Law suggests that interview role-playing can provide an edge, preparing candidates for unexpected scenarios. Exploring sectors with labor shortages, such as bricklaying, social care, or cybersecurity, where demand may exceed supply, is another strategy. The UK government's Annual Skills Report can offer insights into such areas and available training.
Law also advises against a "scattergun approach," advocating for a focused job search that highlights suitability and transferable skills, such as strong interpersonal abilities demonstrated through handling challenging situations. Employers are increasingly adopting a skills-based hiring approach, making refresher courses or additional training a way to show initiative and adaptability.
Madden found that maintaining a positive mindset was crucial. Her personal discipline included waking early, avoiding daytime television, regular exercise, and relying on a supportive network of friends for conversation and a change of scenery.