Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I am 39 and have recently completed a PhD, which I undertook with the aim of developing a career as a university lecturer. My academic work has been well-respected, and I was complimented particularly on my hard-working attitude and for my writing and teaching skills. I have since applied for numerous post-doc jobs – and to related jobs outside of academia – yet have never even been invited to interview.
Whenever I have asked for feedback, I have always been told that whereas I undoubtedly have the knowledge and skills necessary to actually do the job, my age and work history very much count against me.
I spent most of my 20s and early 30s unable to work due to health challenges, and what employment I held was usually part-time, short-term and in manual or voluntary jobs unrepresentative of my abilities and aspirations.
I have approached the Jobcentre and employment brokers for help in improving my CV and self-presentation skills, and have been advised to “lower my expectations” and to pursue careers in the admin, retail or care sectors.
I really do not want to spend the next 30 years of my life in work that does not suit me. But do I have any hope of gaining work as a lecturer or in an associated field?
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
