I've been working in IT for over 25 years, mostly as the sole administrator in various small businesses ranging from law firms to hotels. I dropped out of university after two years due to learning difficulties and didn't finish a tech college program because it went bankrupt. Now, after 14 years in a law firm, I'm facing the reality of the business closing down and I'm worried about getting a new job, especially since I lack certificates or diplomas. I did get my CompTIA Network+ about 15 years ago and I'm currently taking some online courses (like CCNA and CompTIA Security+) to add to my qualifications. I feel like I'm aging out of the industry. Are there others out there over 50 who are finding job hunting tough?
5 Answers
Honestly, age isn't the problem; being a sole IT guy might be. If you've been the only one in charge, you might have missed out on learning current trends and teamwork. Make sure to keep updated on security practices and tech. Your experience could be a huge asset if framed correctly!
For sure, keeping up-to-date is key! Tackle that mindset when looking at your skills.
Certifications can help, but they aren't strictly required to land an IT job. Focus on places that value experience over degrees. Also, applying to major tech firms for the interview practice could give you a real boost. Just be sure you target the roles that align with your skills.
You can definitely find work, especially if you target small to medium-sized businesses. It's more about your experience than your education. Make sure to showcase your people skills along with your IT knowledge during interviews. Employers often want someone who can manage a team while also handling tech issues, so lean into your extensive experience!
Thanks for the encouragement! I’ve been hesitant about job roles beyond admin, but I see where you're coming from.
Absolutely, it's all about how you present yourself. Your experience is valuable!
I'm 56 and after 25 years in the field, I recently switched jobs using my network. It’s vital to leverage your connections from past roles rather than just sending your resume out. Those relationships can open doors you didn’t even know were there!
Employers are increasingly interested in practical experience over formal education. If your soft skills are strong, don’t underestimate their value! It might be worth looking into roles where your unique IT background—especially in law—could stand out. Think of transitioning to a vendor role where your niche experience could be invaluable.
This makes sense. I have always worked alone but I've kept up with tech trends online. I’ll emphasize that!