The "Grey Ceiling"

[Haknwak]

My own little takeoff from the women's limitations of advancement in a male dominated business place. It's my term for Age Discrimination.

Having searched DU I saw lots of old activity (5 yrs old or so) on Age Discrimination and it seems to have gone quiet. What.... did it go away when Bush was in office or something? What did I miss?

Being mid 50's and highly skilled in my specialty, there shouldn't be an age issue but there is, I am sure. Same probs as were listed 5 years ago - I cost the company too much money in insurance and benefits, it is generally expected that someone of my age and experience does not start from the bottom with one year vacation; and I am in the high risk insurance category. Geez I remember being in that category (automobile) when I got two tickets and a DWI in the 70's.

Any input on age discrimination? I did notice discussion of non-chronological CVs and Resumes. Problem is my work will require heavy background checks - just shy of that performed for a security clearance. Not to mention, as soon as they see my college days they can easily do the math and come up with a very close to accurate age guess for me.

Am a bit desperate here and seeking input from fellow professionals and recruiters.

Thanks
Haknwak

[ThoughtCriminal]

1. 51 - getting used to it

Programmer. 5 years ago making close to 6-figures. Now it's hard to find even entry-level work.

[Captain Hilts]

2. No one wants to hire you because they don't want to pay for healthcare for someone over 40. nt

[DURHAM D]

4. Which is exactly the reason that Medicare -

should be lowered to age 50. Even if we don't get any other "reforms", lowering the Medicare age by 15 years is a no brainer.

It also would allow some folks to go ahead and retire, get out of the work force, thus will help the unemployment situation.

[Captain Hilts]

5. Yes. Clinton suggested in 1998 lowering it to 55. nt

[MADem]

3. It's a terrible thing, and it happens, and it's impossible to prove it.

Perhaps working with a "headhunter" might help--one of those placement agencies. The downside is that they charge either you or the company (or both) for the placement.

[lamp_shade]

6. Welcome to DU, Haknwak.