56 Year Old IT Professional: Struggling to Find a Job in Mainframe - What Should I Do?

Ans: Mr Nagaraju, it is indeed sad to know that you are without a job at this age. I understand that you need to have something in hand and you have the skills and energy levels to carry on, but it becomes difficult to get into a job at 59. I suggest you try in start ups who may not be able to pay you as well and also offer consultancy services in your field on the side. Wishing you the best.

Ans: I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of securing a new job: Explore temporary or freelance opportunities to generate income while you continue searching for a permanent job. Freelancing platforms and websites offer opportunities for short-term projects in IT and related fields. Identify any skills gaps or areas for improvement that may be hindering your job search. Take online courses, workshops, or certification programs to update your skills and stay current with industry trends and technologies. Tailor your resume to highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Update your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, a comprehensive work history, and relevant keywords to make it easier for recruiters to find you. Don't limit yourself to one job search method. Explore multiple channels, such as online job boards, company websites, recruitment agencies, networking events, and social media platforms. Consider reaching out to former colleagues, classmates, and professional contacts for job leads and referrals. Attend industry events, meetups, webinars, and networking groups to connect with professionals in your field. Join online communities, forums, and LinkedIn groups related to your industry or job function to expand your network and learn about job opportunities. Job searching can be challenging, especially during difficult times. Stay positive, maintain a routine, and focus on activities that boost your confidence and well-being. Set realistic goals and deadlines for your job search, and celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

Remember that job searching takes time and persistence, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Keep refining your approach, leveraging your network, and staying proactive in your job search efforts. With perseverance and determination, you'll increase your chances of securing a new job that meets your needs and goals.

Ans: Hi Mukesh,
Please share your skills and experiences. I will advise accordingly.

Ans: Dear Mukesh ji, There are many like you who suffer from Mid career crisis after loosing their jobs due to any reason. Since it is not clear from your query about the job profile you held and your academic /professional/Technical qualifications , hence I am unable to suggest however there are many private organisations in service sector like Hotel / Travel &tourism/ NBFCs/ Retail / Automobile Dealerships/ Coaching Institutions / Schools / Colleges in Admin / Security Services / Real estate like companies you may get options . You may have to compromise on the salary package and other perks . You may take help of job consultancies who are arrange interviews for you .

Ans: Map your wins. List five projects where you drove revenue, cut costs, or built a team. Those stories will anchor every résumé tweak and interview answer.

Phone five former managers or clients this week. Ask: “If you had a three-month problem I could solve, what would it be?” Short gigs often reopen doors to full-time roles.

Target midsize firms and family-run businesses; they value experience over age and hire quickly.

Who in your network hires people like you?
You carried a career for decades; the market still needs that muscle. Tighten focus, act in short sprints, and momentum will build.