If you’re over 50, you’ve probably observed that it is more difficult for you to find a new job than it is for your colleagues who are in their 30’s and 40’s. This statistic has been substantiated by a recent AARP study where it took the 50+ set nearly 30 weeks to find a new job, as compared to just 21 weeks for their younger colleagues.
What are the factors at work, here? Well, first of all, there is the question of compensation. An older worker with more experience can command a higher salary. Especially in today’s economy, companies tend to hire workers who won’t drain their resources. A second issue at play here is health. It stands to reason that as younger workers are usually not to be at risk for expensive medical issues--heart attacks for example--and by hiring the younger generation, companies can save money. Third, there is the question of ‘culture’ or ‘fit.’ In the electronics industry where employees tend to be younger means that it may be difficult for an ‘oldster’ to fit in.
This notwithstanding, seniors ARE finding positions each day. So, how do they do it? Here are a few suggestions that could jump start your job search.
1) Wake up at a consistent time each day and send your e mails and letters off to those you know or who have been recommended to you. Handwritten is better, but if your handwriting leaves something to be desired, send a typed message stating what it is you’re looking to find: what kind of a job, what level of responsibility and what your salary range would be. Always offer to follow up with a resume, but don’t include one with you letter, or you could be perceived as being too pushy.
2) Attend as many networking events, career fairs, information interviews and appointments as you possibly can and keep a notebook handy to jot down what you’ve learned.
3) Once home, spend the remainder of your day researching various employers and positions. There are numerous resources on the internet, but you may be particularly interested in a group called “Forty Plus” that can help you connect to potential job sources in your community. (Note that this is NOT a one-way street: you must be willing to spend your time helping others, as well.)
4) Learn about new technologies in the work force. The last thing you need is for an employer to think that you’re stuck in the Fax generation! Go buy a blackberry or a tablet. Explore the social networking option. Hire a college student to explain to you how to send text messages.
5) If you can help others along the way, by all means do so. If you find a position that isn’t suitable for you, but might be of interest to one of your contacts, get that information out ASAP.
6) Update your credentials. Take that class you’ve always been meaning to or finish the certificate program you started earlier but never finished.
7.) Finally, find yourself a cause and volunteer. You’ve got plenty of spare time at this point: use it wisely. After all, the connections you make in the community could make the difference between getting a paycheck and remaining unemployed.
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