Make text larger   A | A | A

Getting a Job at 50+



No thumbnail specified
Whether it’s because of a layoff or a decision to make a career change, there are more and more people over the age of 50 looking for employment right now. Although starting a job hunt when you're over 50 is not the easiest thing to hurdle, it is also not the end of the road. With most employers looking to hire a younger, fresher workforce, there are also a number who are retiree-friendly. Getting that job even in a prime age is possible, and here are a few ways you can up your chances of senior employment.
One of the most important things that a senior job hunter should have is his network. It’s important that during the course of your working life, you’ve built a network of professional and social contacts and this is one advantage you will have over the younger workers. These are the people who know of your reputation and skill; they are aware of what you have already accomplished and what you can do.  Most job opportunities are spread via word of mouth, so continuous networking is important. Join alumni groups from your college, social communities, and networking sites. Join club meetings and other gatherings that spike your interest; these may just be the places where you might be offered a job.

Aside from maintaining an active network, it’s also good to still make a direct effort in finding that job. You can start by taking a look at employment fields that are in need of beefing up their workforce. These are top sources of jobs for retirees nowadays. Explore industries such as healthcare, nursing, healthcare administration, retail sales and management, and teaching, among others.
      
The way companies and businesses work in this present day and age is very different from the way things were handled three decades ago, when your career was starting out. Now it is quite important to have some basic knowledge of certain computer applications and other business technology. Creating professional sounding emails is also important, as this is a necessity nowadays.  Familiarize yourself with these technologies and learn how to incorporate them into the job you are targeting.

Set up your profile on LinkedIn.  It's free and by putting a little time into it, you can build up quite a professional network of people and this, in turn, can lead to job prospects.  In addition, using LinkedIn shows a potential employer that you're Internet savvy.
      
Finally, it never hurt anyone to prepare for an interview, even if you’ve gone through the process a number of times. Practice your potential interview with a friend or family member. Remember that you are there to sell yourself but keep in mind companies want people who are a solution to their problems. Creatively, yet humbly, market yourself to the employer: talk about your skills, accomplishments, what you can deliver to the company – all while trying to match their needs with your talents.
      
Remember, finding a job when you are over 50 might be a tad challenging, but it is very possible. Don’t be discouraged; take any extra steps necessary, and you will be well on your way to that job you desire.

Print Print this page
Free Newsletter
Signup now for hints, tips and interesting articles to help you plan for the future

I LIVE IN:

Follow us on Twitter