Need advice - older SAHM going back to work

[Anonymous]

I'm in my 50s, and looking for work after 20 years as a SAHM. I've read lots of posts on DCUM that talk about starting at the bottom. So, I've applied for admin jobs, even though I have a PhD and years of experience in my profession. I'd be happy to be an admin because I want a low-stress job that uses some of my skills. I've applied for several jobs so far, have been interviewed, but have not been offered the job. My sense is that they seem to think I'm overqualified, won't last long as an admin, possibly. I'm not sure how to handle this. I really am interested in these jobs, and I tell them so. I do not want a career job, I want to get out of the house and do something useful. I'm very organized and love keeping things functioning smoothly, which is a large part of an admin job. I don't want to work long hours, so this seems like a perfect type of job for me.

I have been questioning everything I've done so far:

Should I dumb down my resume? Take my graduate degrees off?

Should I wear a suit? I wore a sports jacket and pants to two interviews, a skirt and sweater to another one. Am I projecting the right image?

Should I dye my hair? I don't have lines in my face, but my hair is graying.

I did some teaching in my field while a SAHM -- should I take that off my resume?

It feels sort of dishonest for me to dumb down my background. Once I start working, won't they find out? I can't hide my background forever.

Isn't the fact that I have not worked full-time for two decades enough to suggest that I'm serious about working at an entry-level type job?

Any suggestions most appreciated. I'm feeling frustrated and not sure what mistakes I'm making or how to proceed from here.

[Anonymous]

Anyone? I just got rejected for another job today. Would appreciate hearing from anyone who's been in this position. I'll post on 50 and over.

[Anonymous]

It's probably your age/image. They most likely want someone young and fresh. I say this since your resume gets through and you get interviewed.

[Anonymous]

I think you just have to keep trying, and networking with people you know. And really be convincing about how this isn't just a stopgap job, but you would enjoy the tasks and the role itself.

[Anonymous]

I replied in your other thread.

[Anonymous]

The problem is that you're competing with young kids just out of college for these jobs and they look better and probably project the type of image the company is going for.

Why don't you want to do something related to your degree?

If you really want to go the admin route, I would suggest a nonprofit organization. There are very clear divisions between admins and program staff. People will be more likely to just accept that you're a career admin and give you a shot.

[Anonymous]

Do what my step-MIL did: DDD implants, nose job, botox. She gets every secretary position she applies for. She flits from job to job and somehow always gets a new one. Late 50s.

[Anonymous]

Does it help to have recent retail experience on your resume?

[Anonymous]

Post an email address and I'll send you a job description for an open EA position we have.

[Anonymous]

Have you tried Flexjobs? There are some positions for Phds, usually editing and teaching online if you're open to working from home.

[Anonymous]

OP, in your resume, cover letter, and interview, highlight your organizational skills (using whatever experience you can demonstrate as a showcase of those skills. ). Ditto for other skills you have determined that the hiring managers want to see in an admin. Have your elevator pitch well-honed explaining why you want the admin kind of job now at this point in your life. Do consider wearing a suit,projecting energy and efficiency. Good luck!! You can do it!!

[Anonymous]

I would also send you a link to our announcement if you provide an email address. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Do what my step-MIL did: DDD implants, nose job, botox. She gets every secretary position she applies for. She flits from job to job and somehow always gets a new one. Late 50s.

That is sick.

[Anonymous]

I would look at temp firms. They will have a better time convincing their employers to accept you than some young dip in HR. They often end up being permanent.

[Anonymous]

I think image matters a lot for admin jobs -- people want someone who looks tractable, eager, and pleasant. I'd color your hair (you can always go back to gray once you have the job).

Do you really think you'll be happy doing this kind of work? I think you are selling yourself short in a way and employers realize this.