After being unemployed for two years, a feeling of anger, sadness and comfort stirs inside of me. There is comfort only to learn there are other people confronting the same stereotyping as I am.
I am in my early 50’s and have been operating in the corporate world for over 20 years. I am a high achiever, worked 24/7, believed in the corporate mission, never out sick, and strived to be the best I could be. As I climbed the corporate ladder, so did the age. The company was changing and I knew it was time to move on. I learned a new manager would be assuming the responsibilities of my department. A young cocky woman who had no respect for people or experience. She squeezed me out. It was music to my ears to learn she was asked to leave 4 years later.
I have been on so many interviews and keep track of them by writing articles.
Contacts were made, resumes were sent out and yet—nothing. I get offers at less than half of my previous salary. I, too, have filed applications at Costco, Walmart, and Home Depot. Something must be done. There are too many people riding in this seat who are victims of this treatment.
I once was interviewed for a Marketing Manager’s position at Westfield Corporation. The person who interviewed me was nearly thirty. During the interview she expressed the company likes to hire young people so they can train them to be the future management team. I was floored. I knew at that moment, this interview was a waste of my time. One week later, I was emailed the position had been filled. I could go on and on with interviews of this nature.
It has been an extremely degrading and humiliating experience, and an ever-growing issue.
Joann Fiorentino Lucas
