A Decade of Struggle: One Man’s Frustrating Job Search Odyssey
After being let go from his financial analyst position at a tech firm in 2013, 55-year-old Chris Putro thought his impressive resume, complete with a master’s degree in chemistry and over a decade of experience, would guarantee him a swift return to the workforce. Nine years on, he’s still waiting for his big break.
Despite sending out countless applications, Putro has only managed to land four phone interviews, with three employers disappearing without a word and the fourth deeming him overqualified for the role. The Los Angeles-based job seeker estimates he has enough savings to last a few more years, thanks to his savvy stock market investments, but the uncertainty is taking a toll on his mental health.
“I’m constantly worried about running out of money and losing everything,” Putro confessed. “It’s a daunting thought process.”
Putro’s struggles are far from unique. The US job market has slowed significantly, with the ratio of job openings to unemployed individuals plummeting over the past two years. While the unemployment rate remains relatively low, many job seekers like Putro are finding it increasingly difficult to secure employment.
In his quest for a new role, Putro has tried various strategies, from applying to jobs through popular platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn to targeting major local employers. However, he’s unsure whether his age is working for or against him. “I’ve heard that employers either love or hate people my age,” he said. “Some think we’re too old, while others believe we have a better work ethic than younger generations.”
As Putro continues his job search, he’s determined to stay positive and focused. With October typically being his most active month for applying, he’s hopeful that his persistence will eventually pay off. Until then, he’ll continue to produce a standup comedy show in the Los Angeles area, a venture that brings him some financial stability and a much-needed distraction from his job search woes.
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