Advice Line | Bob Lewis » Advice for those on the wrong end of age discrimination

July 25, 2006 | Comments: (0)

Advice for those on the wrong end of age discrimination

TAGS: General

Dear Bob and "Frustrated" ...

I probably should NOT comment on another InfoWorld column, but this one was just too good to pass up.  I, too, am over 50.  Way beyond 50.  But somewhere around 42 or 43 I went independent for that very reason.  Guys over 40, like Rodney Dangerfield, "don't get no respect."  And we're the only ones who remember Rodney and his tie-straightening act.

So, screw up your courage, save up about two years salary (you'll need that and more) and go into business for yourself.  Set up a corporation, get a good, inexpensive CPA, a good, inexpensive corporate attorney (for contracts if nothing else) and let the Devil take the hindmost.  Set a  good rate and don't vary from it, not even if the "Pimp-du-jour" does promise that this contract will run for years.  Contracts are good for whatever the escape clause is in the contract; usually two weeks.  And NEVER EVER sign a contract without a cancellation period that favors you!  If you don't protect yourself, no one else will. 

Finally, hmmm....  No finally.   Like the Nike ad; Just Do It!

James Owen

Jim ...

I can only agree conditionally. And to fend off the sarcastic Comments: No, it isn't because I don't want any more competition.

I don't, of course, but that isn't the reason.

It's just that not everyone belongs in business. While some businesses are easier than others, there are a few basic questions anyone considering this route should ask themselves. They are:

1. Can you sell? Can you figure out who wants what you do, find ways to get their attention, and muster the solid reasons they should engage your services instead of those of your competitors?

An inability to sell is probably the most common reason people who go into business for themselves go out of business. Take it seriously, because if you're good at selling, you're probably receiving offers of employment if you want them.

2. Are you good enough at what you do to be counted in the top 20%? Consultants and contractors must be like Caesar's wife: Above reproach. To sell you need a professional demeanor. To deliver you need to provide professional results. It's a hard question to ask yourself and a harder one to answer honestly. It's also critically important, for a simple and practical reason: If you're an employee, you have to at least "meet expectations." It says so on the employee evaluation form. As an outside contractor or consultants you have to exceed them.

Every time.

3. Do you have the financial discipline to average out your earnings so you don't run short during your down times? Not everyone does, and not everyone is able to quell the feeling of panic that arises when they see their checking account dwindling and there is no work in sight.

If you can honestly give the right answer to these three questions, I agree - give it a shot. There's a lot to be said for being your own boss, although it can ruin you for anything else.

But if you can't, and are also having trouble finding employment in your chosen field due to age discrimination, I'd advise you to pursue one of two other alternatives. Either chase opportunities for which gray hairs give you credibility, or find a good staffing agency to handle the selling for you.

- Bob

Posted by Bob Lewis on July 25, 2006 04:27 AM

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