This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Matthew English, a 64-year-old accountant in Alabama who’s been looking for a job since October 2024. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
I often wake up around 3 a.m. with my mind racing — thinking about which roles to apply to or what job search strategy to try next.
Instead of trying to fall back asleep, I usually get up and start working on my job search, which includes sending out applications or post-interview thank you letters. Around 6 a.m., I typically might make breakfast, shower, and then start planning out what I want to accomplish that day. It’s become a sort of routine.
My search has taken a major toll on my finances. While my home has been paid off, I’ve had to use much of my life’s savings to survive. Last Christmas, I couldn’t afford to buy gifts for family members I’d usually give something to, and I’ve been forced to cut back the charitable contributions that are very important to me.
I’ve applied to all kinds of jobs
I’ve been looking for a full-time job since October 2024, after a decadeslong career in accounting.
Submitting hundreds of applications and spending countless hours on my job search have led to several interviews, but I haven’t been able to secure an offer.
I’ve applied for jobs related to my accounting background, but I’ve also expanded my search to any part-time or full-time job I feel I could perform — including entry-level, non-skilled positions. I even applied to be the Chick-fil-A cow mascot at a Birmingham location.
Age bias is real —but my network has been my best tool against it
I believe that, more than anything else, my age has worked against me during my job search. People can look at your résumé and like it, but when you physically walk in and you’re gray-haired, bald, or have wrinkled skin, I think it does make an impact. It’s hard to prove, but I think it’s real.
Still, I’ve tried various job search strategies to boost my chances. I’ve developed a strategic plan and a consistent application schedule, tailored my application materials to the positions I’m applying to, attended job fairs and networking events, made posts on LinkedIn, tried different job boards, and leveraged my network.
The best results have come from my network. My personal and professional connections have helped me get my résumé in front of hiring managers. I got one phone interview after a friend of a friend ensured my résumé got looked at. On other occasions, I’ve been connected with people whose companies might not be hiring, but who know someone at a different company that’s hiring.
I’ve even tried volunteering for non-profits in hopes I might meet someone who’ll be helpful down the road.
While these efforts haven’t led to a job, I think they’ve at least helped me land interviews.
I’ve also tried using ChatGPT and Copilot to help me with my job search, asking questions like what companies in my area might need an accountant, and what jobs are available for someone with a bachelor’s degree or less.
It’s been a lot of trial and error. What worked yesterday might not work today.
A broken hiring system
One of the most frustrating parts of my job search has been spending weeks or months waiting for companies to get back to you — if you hear from them at all.
After a phone interview, I did multiple interviews at the company’s office. When I got home, I sent a thank-you email and hoped for the best. About two months later, the company called and apologized for not getting in touch with me sooner. They’d filled the position shortly after my interview, but I was completely ignored for over a month.
I recently landed a three-day-a-week contract accounting job that pays $28 an hour. It may last through the end of the year, but I’m still in real need of a full-time role. The financial toll of my job search is one reason I don’t think I’ll ever be able to retire.
I believe the hiring system is broken. I’m not the only one out there going through these circumstances; it affects me as an older worker, but I’ve seen younger people go through similar challenges. It needs to be fixed.
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