Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: FRIDAY, September 1, 1995                   TAG: 9509010040
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-12   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: DOROTHEA E. AARON
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

JOB MARKET STILL BIASED AGAINST AGE

Look out, because you're in for a treat. If you think age discrimination isn't out there in the working market, take another trip shopping for a job.

I spent 13 years at my past job - apartment management - in Roanoke. To my dismay, I had no job security whatsoever. The property was sold, and I was forced to make a decision - not in my best interest.

My qualifications are excellent. I've answered ads in the want ads and sent out resumes until I'm blue in the face.

I've been on a few interviews. Oh, yes, they say they'll get in touch with me within a week, but don't count on it. Employers don't bother to call you or send you a letter. If we take the time to follow up on an ad, employers should be kind enough to get back with you.

Tell me: What is this world coming to?

I've spent 17 years in management from coast to coast, but this is the first time I've experienced such dismay with the working force. After a while, you begin to feel like a number. You lose your pride, and most of all, hope.

Three months ago I was a whole person, with a bright future, but now I feel lost.

I lost my job, and my finances are in ruin. I had to move because all I had was my Social Security income. My husband went through the same thing because he worked with me.

If you decide to spend 13 years with a company, look over your shoulder because it may happen to you.

People 65 or older make excellent employees. They are dependable, do quality work, are responsible and hardly ever are out on sick leave.

We need the work. Give us a chance to prove it. Semiretired people can save the employer money in many ways.

Dorothea E. Aaron of Troutville was in apartment management for 13 years.