Ph.D. holder, 57, faces harsh job market reality after being laid off

Finding a job at 57, even with a Ph.D., presents a stark reality for Gregory Brooks, who has been unemployed since leaving his IT services job at a community college in May. Brooks, based in Rochester, New York, finds himself navigating a challenging job market where age appears to be a significant barrier.

Brooks, who once dedicated himself to his career to earn his doctorate, now seeks a role that balances professional contribution with personal life, valuing time with his wife and dog over the long hours he worked in his youth. He has actively pursued IT and project management positions, utilizing his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and exploring roles requiring travel due to limited local opportunities.

Despite a proactive approach that includes networking, using job platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, and contacting recruiters, Brooks has faced numerous rejections. This constant refusal has deeply affected his self-esteem, making him question his ability to find a role that truly matches his skills and experience. He worries that employers might perceive his age as a precursor to retirement, while simultaneously acknowledging that age can also signify valuable experience and stability.

The job search has also taken a toll on his mental health, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression. Brooks has sought counseling, a practice he also turned to 11 years ago during a previous period of unemployment. He is learning to manage his emotions through mindfulness, recognizing the importance of acknowledging feelings of sadness or low spirits rather than suppressing them. Brooks's journey highlights the broader challenge faced by older job seekers, emphasizing that rebuilding self-confidence and redefining self-worth beyond a job title are crucial steps in overcoming unemployment.

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If you feel down today, acknowledge it. Then ask yourself what I can do today to at least find a little bit of light?