Dear Mr. Walberg:
I have been laid off for three months and have several skills from employment for over 20 years. I am actively searching for employment and getting more discouraged every day. I am 62 years old, and although employers are not supposed to discriminate on age, I am convinced that that is exactly why I haven't had any success. I am sure that every single employer I had an interview with hired someone younger. Just what do I have to do to get hired at my age?

S.B., Wisconsin

Dear S.B.:
Yes, it is illegal to discriminate for any reason, including age, gender, race, religion, etc. And, yes, employers do discriminate. So, when you "feel" it happening, move on to another employer. You wouldn't want to work with someone who discriminates, would you? Here are a couple of quick ideas for avoiding discrimination and getting hired, gleaned from your message to me:

• Don't wear age on your sleeve. Nobody really cares about your age if you have relevant skills and are ready to help an employer be profitable. It's not your age; it's if you can produce on day #1. Employers used to worry about how long a new hire will stay with them. That's still a concern, but the biggest concern is profitability right now - we'll worry about tomorrow, tomorrow!
• Sell your accomplishments. You mentioned "several skills" from over 20 years of employment. That's good, but what would be better would be a listing of recent accomplishments on the job. Skills learned on the job are very important, but what you are able to do with those skills that help you exceed an employer's expectations today are more important.

Job searching today is different. It's definitely not the '80s anymore! A few more tips:

• Know what you want to do on your next job and be able to clearly explain it to a complete stranger in a couple of minutes.
• Network with everyone you know, adding new contacts daily.
• Research companies you like. Get names of managers and contact them directly.
• Do not worry if a company is hiring, downsizing, freezing, or what. If you have what they need, you'll get hired.