Over two million workers over the age of 55 were unemployed as of July 2009, reports Experience Works. Many of these workers did not intend to work into their 80's, let alone their 60's or 70's. However, due to the economy, decline in their investment portfolio and other life-changing events, such as a spousal death, many of these workers were finding that they had to work into their retirement years. A number of resources and tips help the over 55 worker find a job.
Step 1
Network. Because the older worker has had more time to build a network of colleagues, he has an advantage over his younger counterparts, says online job search expert Susan P. Joyce. Contact friends and former colleagues to ask their advice about companies that may be hiring.
Step 2
Utilize professional social networking sites. Sites such as LinkedIn are becoming increasingly more effective for helping people reconnect with former colleagues. Create your professional LinkedIn profile and begin joining LinkedIn groups to reconnect with friends and colleagues.
Step 3
Research over 50 employment websites. RetiredBrains.com and RetirementJobs.com are employment-related sites specifically geared toward older workers. Not only are jobs posted, but information about overcoming age discrimination, interviewing and resume advice is available, too.
Step 4
Concentrate on age-friendly companies. AARP provides a list of 50 of the best employers for over age 50 workers, which includes such companies as Glaxo Smith Kline, University of Pittsburgh and the National Institutes of Health as of 2009. The AARP program recognizes companies that employ policies and procedures that address the aging labor force.
Step 5
Utilize a job aggregator site. Indeed.com, for example, compiles job listings from multiple job search and company website listings. Locate age-friendly companies and perform a search of their job listings on Indeed.com.
Step 6
Look younger. Color your hair or a gray beard to shave years off of your age. Ensure your interview clothes are current, not outdated.
Step 7
Fine-tune interview skills. If you've been out of the interviewing process for awhile, your interviewing skills may be rusty. Display confidence in your interview by preparing ahead of time. Be prepared to answer age-related questions with specific examples that demonstrate how you achieved goals for past employers. Display knowledge about the company by doing research ahead of time.
Step 8
Stay current on technology. Letting the employer know that you are up to date on your computer skills will help you better compete with the younger crowd.
Step 9
Seek a part-time job. Consider working a part-time job, which may be easier to land than a full-time position. Sites such as Craigslist.org contain listings for part-time gigs.
Step 10
Display a positive attitude. Let the employer know that you have the energy and vitality to perform the job at or above the level expected.
Tips and Warnings
- Focus on what you can do for the employer.
- Don't display bitterness toward a past employer or boss.
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