This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Christina Jones, a 57-year-old in Philadelphia. It’s been edited for length and clarity.
Facing a layoff can be daunting, especially after a long tenure at a company. For Christina Jones, a business analyst who spent 15 years at United Healthcare, the unexpected job loss was just the beginning of a challenging journey. While layoffs are an inherent risk in the corporate sector, the prolonged struggle to secure another position took her by surprise.
Despite attending numerous interviews over the course of a year, Christina felt that her age was a significant barrier in her job search. “I truly believe it was because I was applying at 56,” she shared. Eventually, she accepted a role that was not her first choice and came with a 60% pay cut.
I took a pay cut, but I’m still fighting to get back into the role I want
Christina’s attempts to return to healthcare IT have been met with frustration, as she suspects her age might be influencing potential employers’ decisions. “Whenever a potential employer finds out my birthday, they don’t call me back, or the rejection email comes in,” she said. In a twist of fate, Christina’s mother was hospitalized, and the nurses there encouraged her to apply for a position at the hospital. Though the job was outside her field and paid significantly less, she accepted it to stay employed.
We’ve had to make major lifestyle changes
The financial impact of her career change has been substantial. Christina and her husband are selling their home and have cut back on various expenses. “We used to go out to eat a lot, but now we’re cooking at home more,” she explained. Additionally, they’ve canceled subscriptions and memberships, including their annual tickets to Longwood Gardens. Their financial pressures have eased slightly since their youngest child reached adulthood.
The biggest thing I feel is anger
Despite her qualifications, Christina frequently encounters job postings that match her skills but receives rejections before interviews. This has led to moments of frustration and tears. She remains hopeful by investing her energy into her entertainment company, which she runs with her husband. Though it doesn’t match her previous salary, the business has become a source of joy and purpose.
Many older people simply want to continue doing what they love
Christina wishes that employers understood that many in her age group desire to continue their careers and share their experience with younger colleagues. Her advice to others in similar situations is to find alternative ways to bring joy to others if returning to their original career proves challenging. “Even though we’re in our 50s, we’re not done yet,” she emphasized, urging her peers to remain positive and focused on future opportunities.
