4 Ways to Get a Job Over 50
1. Update Your Technological Know-How
Many companies look for people over 50 who are up to date on the latest technologies. If you aren't a computer "power user," increase your IT skills to become more viable in the job market. You can take college courses, get a degree or attend seminars to improve your computer skills. Once you've updated your skill set, you can pad your resume and bring it into the twenty-first century.
2. Obtain a New Certification
Unfortunately, if the only certification you have came 20 years ago, many companies will not consider your resume. You will find a new position faster when you obtain a new certification in your career field or a new area you are interested in pursuing. For example, if you are a manager, attend courses and/or seminars to learn the latest trends and philosophies in management. Make sure the course offers some type of certificate upon its completion. When listed on your resume, such certifications, especially if they're from well-known institutions, will provide you with a significant edge over the competition.
3. Get Professional Help With Your Resume
A professional resume builder can help you emphasize your experience to match the position(s) you want. If you are over 50, create a resume highlighting your accomplishments and skills by using a bullet-pointed functional resume. Include up-to-date training you have completed and books or magazines you read to keep current in your line of work. List the jobs you've filled in a short list at the end of the resume. Don't disclose your age or provide a picture of yourself with the resume.
4. Hire a Career Coach or Headhunter
Look for a career coach or headhunter who will help you develop better interview skills in addition to assisting you with finding open jobs. The career coach can help you present yourself in a relevant way for today's job market and teach you how to answer typical interview questions to showcase your abilities and skills.
Member Comments
by DeBlacam on March 2, 2009 at 10:53 AM
Could someone tell me where to find a Career Coach or Head Hunter in the Dallas TX area. I have been out of work since 10/15/08 and an a 19 year career banker. I would like to go into more of a services position...... I want to do something helping others. Oh, and I raise my three children alone and need to find something soon!! 44 years old.
DeBlacam
by bettybeas on March 3, 2009 at 12:16 PM
Check your local newspaper site as they will have recruitment services available for your local area.
by Quijote on March 4, 2009 at 10:00 AM
Good information about the after 50 job market. It is tough out there, but being over 50 has it's great advantages for businesses, we have been through this before and survived. Take note!
Jaime
by AuDoubleEagle on March 28, 2009 at 10:37 AM
A man must do what ever he can to provide for his family. Too often, employment is the mantra taught in the American culture however creating income through self-employment, businesses that are made up of systems & networks that duplicate your effort; and investment incomes are really where the advantages of the free enterprise system can be found. It is worth while to create passive income greater than your expenses before your job is exported overseas.