Hi Richard,

Thank you so much for reaching out to Cancer and Careers! It certainly does sound like the last year was a bit of a rollercoaster. However, congratulations on what sounds like a positive turnaround! I will pass along your post to one of our career coaches but in the meantime I just wanted to ask a few questions that might help to get you thinking on your approach and direction.

It's an unfortunate reality that age can play a role in the ability to get hired, or not. With that said, it's not a complete deterrant to getting hired but you may need to think about and approach your job search a bit more creatively. A recent article on LinkedIn speaks to the role of age in the job searching process, and emphasizes focusing on what your experience brings to the table, showing your matersy of specific relevant skills that can highlight your leadership skills, for instance, or further show the value of your wealth of knowledge.

When considering your specific situation, to start, it's going to be important to really think through the types of roles you are looking for. Director of IT is a very high level, and also typically higher stress position, is this something you still want to pursue? Are you focused on continuing down the exact same path as before, or are you open to alternative opportunities? If so, it's probably a good idea to present yourself as looking for something different, so they don't immediately write you off as overqualified. This can include updating your resume to fit the position(s) you're applying to (a process that can be helped by our free Resume Review Service) and also really being thoughtful in the way you describe what you're looking for in your cover letter.

This is also a time when your network can come into play, so you can get a bit more insight into what's available, and potentially have someone put in a word about you and what you're looking for, despite what your experience on paper shows up to this point. Networking can feel like hard work but the reality is, the majority of new jobs are found via connections and networking than through job ads and/or head hunters, so it pays to put the work in.

Ultimately I encourage you to get creative about what you want and what you need at this point. Are you looking primarily to make an income and get benefits? Are yuou looking to continue down the same path/role/industry as before or are you open to different opportunities? There's no right answer of course, but the more preparation you put into setting yourself up for the job search, likely the more successful and effective it will be.

Happy to answer any additional questions or provide further job searching resources and tools.

Sincerely,

Nicole Jarvis, LMSW

Assistant Director of Programs

Cancer and Careers

Thanks for the response and information. I did not clarify that what I am seeking is a lower level less stress position and I do not know how to explain that in my resume so I seem overqualified for every job I apply for. I know in my past I have hired people who where overqualified and they worked out great. I just need to find that opportunity and know how to explain it. Once again I really appreciate the help.

Congratulations on overcoming such a difficult time in your life and being cancer-free! It's understandable that you're feeling discouraged in your job search, but it's important to remember that you have a wealth of experience and skills to offer potential employers.

One strategy you might consider is tailoring your resume (and cover letter, if asked) to highlight the specific skills and experience that align with the requirements of the jobs you're applying for. One version of your resume for every role you are interested in will most likely not clearly identify the key skills and experience that they are all hoping to see.  Instead of focusing on your past job titles or the fact that you may be overqualified, emphasize how your skills and experience can benefit the company in the specific role you're applying for.  

Another strategy, and this is critical, is to network and reach out to people in your industry. Sometimes, it's not what you know, but who you know that can make the biggest difference in finding a job. Leverage the connections you have made over the years to research their companies and potential job opportunities where they might get your foot in the door.  

The new future of work environment has led to an increase in remote and opportunities flexible on location that should increase the number of available opportunities out there for you to consider where your experience and qualifications may be in higher demand. Flexjobs.com, Remote.co, and WeWorkRemotely.com are three good examples of Remote Job Boards that might introduce you to companies in other locations that you would not normally come across.  They also have free subscriptions to be notified the moment a new posting appears that matches your interests. You may also want to think about starting your own business or consulting work as a way to leverage your skills and experience in a flexible and self-directed way.  Sometimes, those engagements can be the door that leads to a full time opportunity.

Finally, don't be afraid to sell yourself during interviews. To the level that you are comfortable with, share your story and the skills and experience you've gained during your time as a cancer survivor and an experienced IT professional. Employers value resilience, adaptability and determination, and your story can be an asset in the hiring process. Remember, you have a lot to offer, and don't give up on your job search. Keep pushing forward, and I would be happy to connect further for additional support and guidance.

I have thought a lot about this and still I am unsure about this...

Finally, don't be afraid to sell yourself during interviews. To the level that you are comfortable with, share your story and the skills and experience you've gained during your time as a cancer survivor and an experienced IT professional

I am not sure how that would be perceived such as would it make me appear "weaker" as I already feel disadvantaged because of my age (61). It is a tough one for me. But i am not sure I could hide it as I still have to go in for tests every now and then. Ultimatley I would want to be transparent but I am unsure about when to have the discussion....

I do appreciate the help everyone has been great!

Wow, Richard, what an inspiring story of resilience! How did you navigate the emotional challenges of facing both cancer and job loss simultaneously? For me, focusing on small, achievable goals each day kept me going.