I'm 58 and have to turn down work (I'm a photographer/producer for over 30 years). Obviously personality and looks can combine for a powerful effect in the hiring process. But one thing we do have control over is physical fitness.
This comes from a man who does not like exercise, and has a genetic tendency to severe obesity (if family is any indication).
Five days a week you will find me sprinting up hills around my neighborhood, using bands and weights for resistant training, and doing breathing exercises. I eat one or two meals a day.
I'm lean, toned, and walk with speed, energy and purpose.
I'm not exactly good looking, and I can occasionally be socially awkward - but I'm fit, respectful and wear tasteful attire.
Personally, I think this gives me a giant advantage in my age cohort where most men waddle around like they are 11 months pregnant and you can hear their breathing from 60 feet away. I hear a lot of guys in this category counting down the days till retirement.
I dislike exercise but have practiced fitness training for decades. The physical and mental benefits are well known. I think the impression it makes is off the charts when you present as an older man with discipline and intellect.
I have an aunt who is deeply concerned for my health because I'm too small in her opinion (food = love). Yet her son, my cousin (who she considers a strapping example of manhood), just went on SS disability after being a tow truck driver for decades. He just got too fat to do the job. Nobody would hire him - they just see a giant medical liability.
We have control over fitness regardless of looks, and it can make a difference.
This comes from a man who does not like exercise, and has a genetic tendency to severe obesity (if family is any indication).
Five days a week you will find me sprinting up hills around my neighborhood, using bands and weights for resistant training, and doing breathing exercises. I eat one or two meals a day.
I'm lean, toned, and walk with speed, energy and purpose.
I'm not exactly good looking, and I can occasionally be socially awkward - but I'm fit, respectful and wear tasteful attire.
Personally, I think this gives me a giant advantage in my age cohort where most men waddle around like they are 11 months pregnant and you can hear their breathing from 60 feet away. I hear a lot of guys in this category counting down the days till retirement.
I dislike exercise but have practiced fitness training for decades. The physical and mental benefits are well known. I think the impression it makes is off the charts when you present as an older man with discipline and intellect.
I have an aunt who is deeply concerned for my health because I'm too small in her opinion (food = love). Yet her son, my cousin (who she considers a strapping example of manhood), just went on SS disability after being a tow truck driver for decades. He just got too fat to do the job. Nobody would hire him - they just see a giant medical liability.
We have control over fitness regardless of looks, and it can make a difference.