What to Do When Traditional Employment No Longer Works

The Challenges Senior Candidates Face

You're not alone if you’re a seasoned professional laid off or downsized. It’s an unfortunate reality that many senior candidates face significant barriers in finding traditional W-2 employment.

There are two main challenges:

1. A Weak Job Market for White-Collar Workers: The economy hasn’t fully recovered in some sectors, making opportunities for senior professionals scarce.
   
2. Age Discrimination: Although it shouldn’t exist, ageism remains a persistent issue in hiring. Too often, companies overlook the incredible value and experience that senior candidates bring to the table.

Even if you find another job, many senior professionals report that these positions are often short-lived—lasting only 12 to 18 months—before they’re back on the job search treadmill.

The Agitation: The Cost of Relying on Traditional Employment

Let’s be honest: relying solely on traditional employment may not be the best long-term strategy. The hurdles can feel overwhelming even with a solid resume and years of experience.

If you land a job, you may find yourself in roles that don’t fully utilize your expertise or provide long-term stability. This can lead to frustration and a cycle of continually searching for the next opportunity.

But what if there were a way to take control of your career and income without depending on someone else to provide you with a paycheck?

The Solution: Explore Alternative Paths

When I left the corporate world, I faced the same dilemma. Instead of staying on the hamster wheel of W-2 jobs, I partnered in a business venture that used my industry knowledge: recruiting. Eventually, I bought my partner out and became the company's sole owner.

You can take a similar path by:

1. Becoming a Business Owner
   

If you can leverage your experience, great! But if not, there are many local businesses or franchises you can invest in. For example, some diagnostic testing franchises generate significant income for their owners—some even earn over $1 million annually.

Yes, it takes effort, but it’s a path where you control your destiny.

2. Exploring Commission-Based or High-Equity Roles

While 100% commission roles may seem intimidating, they offer freedom and control over your income. With the right company—one that provides support and a proven opportunity for earnings—you can build a rewarding career.

Another option is low-base, high-equity positions with early-stage companies. These roles respect your expertise and allow you to make a meaningful impact while participating in the company’s growth.

When evaluating these opportunities, ensure the CEO has:

• A successful track record of growing small businesses,
• The ability to raise capital, and
• A proven history of bringing new products to market.

Speaking with other employees and understanding the company’s vision can help you gauge whether this is the right opportunity for you.

3. Creating Passive Income Streams

Another option is to generate income through investments. This could include:

• Real estate (apartment complexes, duplexes, car washes, laundromats)
• Dividend-paying stocks or funds
• Limited partnerships in businesses like mobile home parks or senior housing

Countless opportunities exist to build passive income streams that provide monthly or quarterly cash flow.

Take the First Step

It all starts with evaluating your options and taking control of your career. I know this can feel overwhelming, so I’ve compiled an eBook detailing many of these strategies to help you get started.

Download the Free eBook Here

This is your chance to step off the hamster wheel and design a future where you are in control—not someone else. It takes planning and effort, but the rewards are worth it.

Let’s make the rest of your career the most fulfilling and financially secure chapter of your life.