The reality is there are far more qualified people than jobs, so people are selected based more on fit than need. Young people are more likely to just fit, whi

The reality is there are far more qualified people than jobs, so people are selected based more on fit than need. Young people are more likely to just fit, while old people are less motivated by trends and more likely to embarrass others by disclosing their mistakes. One solution is less of a wall/cliff around the job itself. Zoox has a re-entry program for experienced people to assess the fit; like internships, it reduces the uncertainties. But in a tight job market, no company is driven to expand their options. And it's not "the valley" treating other people. It's people. I've seen people who disrespect even in the best conditions, and others who offer great respect even when firing people. Good character won't help your career, but it might help those around you.