Job Search Tips

It is true.  Statistics show that the older you are, the longer it can take you to find a job.  According to AARP, as of March 2011 it took workers age 55 and older 51.1 weeks to find a job compared to 37.8 weeks for those under 55.  But you don’t have to be one of the statistics.  Set yourself apart and prove that your age and experience are ASSETS with these helpful tips:

Don’t Focus on Your Age – While it is true that you can’t do anything about your age, the number of years you own does not have to be your primary focus.  Too often older workers allow their age to affect their attitude, appearance and demeanor BEFORE they even get to the interview.  Focus on things you can control such as selling yourself in the interview, not the number of candles on your birthday cake.

Avoid Using Dates – Dates on resumes do exactly that – they date you.  Avoid listing the year you graduated from high school or college, and please do not list a life history of your work experiences.  Focus only on the last ten to fifteen years.  If you have relevant work experience that occurred twenty or so years ago and it is applicable to the job in which you are applying, perhaps a functional resume is your best choice. Remember your resume is your marketing tool and the goal is to get you an interview.

Overcome Stereotypes – Older workers are often viewed as unwilling to adapt to change or stuck in their ways.  In this fast-paced, ever-changing world in which we live, all workers young and old alike need to be willing to adapt to change to fit in with the corporate culture.   Make it clear in your cover letter and interview that you are flexible and be sure to cite examples where you showed flexibility in your previous positions.

Become Tech Savvy – There’s a perception that older workers do not have the latest computer skills or are not comfortable with technology.  It this is true for you, you can no longer afford to put off getting the computer skills you need to survive in today’s technology savvy environment.  If you are not skilled with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, take a course to master these programs.  Local community colleges offer computer courses, often for free through their HRD programs as long as you are unemployed.  Additionally, the Goodwill Community Foundation offers free online courses and tutorials.  For more information, go to www.gcflearnfree.org.

Emphasize Experience not Age – Often in an interview, older workers hear that they are “over-qualified”.  Be prepared for this statement and offer a valid response such as, “ I have thought about this very issue before I applied.  I realize that because I have shown commitment to this type of work, my experience would be a tremendous asset to your company.”

Network – One of the best ways to find a job is through networking.  Regardless of when you graduated, your alma mater may have a career network for you to use to contact other alumni in your field of interest. Also, consider joining online career networking sites such as LinkedIn. Remember, networking is a life-long, ongoing process.  Don’t wait until you are unemployed to build your networking contacts.

Explore Age Friendly Employers – When looking for a new job, explore opportunities with companies or industries that have identified themselves as “age-friendly”.  Each year AARP publishes their list of the Best Employers for Workers 50+. Many of their winners have local offices in your area.  Also, consider industries that typically hire older workers such as education, healthcare, government, retail, hospitality and small business.

Don’t Give Up – Job searching isn’t easy no matter how old you are.  You should approach your job search like you are working a full-time job.

Additional Job Search Tips & Hints