My own experience is not unusual: I was redundant from a senior post at 45; I couldn't get a job at the same level. I set up a business as a technical writer and industrial photographer. This business ran successfully for a number of years.

I retrained as a teacher and now earn a healthy living teaching music. I have been out of work for a total of six days since leaving school. I am not unusual. Many of my friends have shifted careers successfully.

It does mean that you have to evaluate the skill you have that are saleable. Out of date degrees don't cut it.

What's wrong with getting a job as a fork lift truck driver? Or filling shelves at supermarkets? Assistants at B&Q All honourable ways of earning a living. Run your own business, drive a taxi, lecture part time t your local FE college.

The world is not your enemy. You don't get jobs because you are not the most suitable candidate. Your qualifications and experience do not impress the interviewer as muc as the qualifications and experienc of the successful candidate.

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