I get filtered out on paper.
When people meet me in person, they guess I’m way younger than my actual age.
The energy, the capability, the drive, it’s all there.
What doesn’t show on paper
35+ years helping build and scale startups.
Years as a leadership coach and right-hand, in addition to the roles I’ve held.
But none of that matters if I never make it past the resume screen.
Where the filter happens
Age becomes a filter before it becomes a conversation.
Not because of what I can or can’t do.
Because of an assumption.
And I know I’m not alone.
You might be dealing with this too.
What’s getting missed
Talented people are getting passed over because their experience reads as too much.
Meanwhile, you’re exactly what companies say they’re looking for.
Leaders who know how to build, scale, and navigate the growing pains.
That’s what experience brings.
Your skills translate across industries.
Leadership. Strategy. Execution.
You can get up to speed fast on products and connections.
But if you’re screened out before the conversation even starts, none of that matters.
A question for hiring leaders
If you’re hiring, ask yourself:
Are you screening for capability or the perfect resume?
Reflection
What’s your take, either as someone hiring or someone who’s been filtered out before the conversation even starts?
If you’re feeling off your game or your leadership edge isn’t where you want it to be, the next step is at the top of the page.
