Volker Joh (59) unemployed despite shortage of skilled workers: “I received 30 rejections in 6 weeks”

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Volker Joh (59) is a trained chef and waiter with decades of experience as a field representative in the food industry. In the catering industry, which has a personnel shortage, it would be a lucky opportunity for every employer if it were not for his age. Joh, 59, is one of those whose chances in the job market are poor, despite his good qualifications. “I’ve been rejected 30 times in the last six weeks,” he says.

Joh lives at Möhlin AG. “I am happy to commute half an hour to Basel every day,” he confirms. It is also flexible regarding duration. «I can start at 6 in the morning or work until late in the evening; Weekend homework is also not a problem for me. The important thing is that I find a job again!”

There is a risk of poverty in old age

But while Joh is flexible, things are different for Swiss employers. They have a shortage of skilled workers, but they are still not ready to give older workers a chance. Various studies prove this.

The numerous reactions to the latest Blick article on the subject demonstrate this. People over 50 talk about looking for a job for months, sometimes years. One of those affected inevitably retired early and emigrated to survive on meager funds for as long as possible. Most want to remain anonymous. The stigma of unemployment is still huge.

Companies demand the perfect match

It’s not just with age that employers lack the necessary flexibility. Even career changers still have a hard time, the cult of the industry remains strong. Barbara F.* (40) could sing a song about that. A year ago she lost her job at a Swiss bank. Since then all her applications have only been rejected. “As a mother, I’m looking for a part-time job, but then I hear everywhere that I’m overqualified,” says F.

Working part-time in the finance industry is still a challenge in 2023. And: “In the financial sector, there is a higher risk of losing your job, especially from the age of 50,” explains F. That is why he wants to change the industry. Barbara F. is a communications and marketing professional; It is a skill needed everywhere. At least you might think so. “But they only want to hire people who have all the knowledge about the industry,” complains F.

He has several university degrees and speaks three national languages ​​fluently. Unemployment destroys self-confidence. “I never thought I would be looking for a job for so long,” F. admits. However, he does not want to complain about his situation and that is why he does not disclose his name in the newspaper.

Volker Joh doesn’t want to bury his head in the sand either. “Maybe the next door won’t open today or tomorrow – but the day after tomorrow!”

*Name changed

Source :Blick