“We made the difficult decision to downsize while we still had options, rather than wait until financial pressures forced our hand.”

I’m in my 60s and have been unemployed for an extended period. To say it’s been frustrating would be an understatement.

I had to put my job search on hold for several months to deal with some major life changes, including selling our home, downsizing, and relocating. I’m finally getting back into the search.

We made the difficult decision to downsize while we still had options, rather than wait until financial pressures forced our hand. Thankfully, we had some equity to work with and enough household income to make the transition possible. It wasn’t easy, but it was the responsible decision.

What’s especially discouraging is how difficult the job market has become. I’ve broadened my search, considered different roles, and lowered my salary expectations by tens of thousands of dollars.

Despite years of relevant experience, a willingness to adapt, and significantly more flexibility around compensation, even getting an interview has become a challenge.

I know I’m not alone in this. But it’s hard not to wonder how much age factors into the equation when experience, qualifications, and flexibility don’t seem to be enough to get a foot in the door.