Lisa Johnson Mandell

Dear Lisa,

I am 54-years-old and I’ve been working in purchasing as a buyer for about 2 years.  I am really not happy with my company. Most companies ask for much more experience.  Any suggestions?

S.

Dear S.

To be honest, this is not a good time for you to be looking for another position. Try to be grateful that you have a job at all, and look for ways to make the best of it. Take on new challenges at work, try to find ways to do your job better, reach out to your colleagues and consider being more supportive of them. Make new friends at work and take full advantage of all benefits offered.

If all else fails, put on your 9-5 happy face, then immerse yourself in more satisfying extracurricular activities — take up a sport, a new hobby or volunteer for a cause you believe in. By the time the economy improves, you’ll have more experience and more connections.

I wish you all the best,

Lisa