How do you encourage a peer who hasn’t been able to land a job due to ageism?
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The first thing I do is listen to my peer and acknowledge them -- for their value and to acknowledge that age discrimination is wrong. The second thing is advise them that they can't pursue other opportunities while harboring doubt or anger about being discriminated against. They will find an organization that values them and they don't want to jeopardize it by bringing negativity into an interview.
On a side note, we're starting to see ageism from two fronts -- old and young -- for certain roles in the cybersecurity and App Dev space. Older professionals may get overlooked for not being young enough and apprehension to invest time in them because they may be nearing retirement. On the other side of the spectrum, Agentic AI is taking roles that some young professionals might fill, such that the young professionals will not get the opportunity to become experienced.
This is a real issue that really needs to be addressed...When you’re encouraging a peer dealing with ageism, it helps to be honest without being harsh and hopeful without sounding unrealistic. You can acknowledge that ageism is real and unfair without letting it define them, reminding them that rejection isn’t a verdict on their worth, relevance, or future. Let them know their experience is not a liability but an asset...years of judgment, perspective, and resilience that can’t be taught or downloaded. Encourage them to stop internalizing silence from employers as failure and instead see this as a season that requires a different strategy, not self-blame. Most of all, offer presence more than platitudes...checking in, sharing connections, and simply staying with them in the tension. Being a retired military veteran, we check-in once a month. Sometimes the most encouraging thing you can say is, “This market hasn’t figured out how to measure you yet, but that doesn’t mean you’re done. You still carry value, voice, and vision—and this season won’t get the last word.” These are just a few thoughts...
Positive reinforcement that experience is still valued, though takes time - while also discussing career options. Sometimes not landing a role immediately is a good pivot for everyone to rethink their career path, their goals and their long term happiness. Simply finding a new role in the same space might not always be best, and helping them at-least explore alternatives is often helpful.
If you are business-oriented, consider starting a side hustle while searching for a job. Plan ahead while strategizing and executing with the sequence.
Consider external consulting as side hustle and try to grow it.