Let’s face it, when 50-something workers get laid off, it is harder for them to find new jobs. If this is you, it may be time to consider these tips:
1. Expand to new industries and fields. Think: transferable skills.
2. Get on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and any social media pertinent to your field.
3. Don’t turn up your nose at internships.
4. Ditto for entry-level positions.
5. If you’re still wearing “big” glasses, please get yourself a pair of stylish frames.
6. Same for clothes. They should fit well, flatter your figure, and be up to date.
7. You don’t need to dye your hair, but consider a hipper style and cut.
8. Lose weight, workout, get fit -- exude energy.
9. Update your skill set.
10. Consider relocating.
11. Consider offering to work hours that younger workers with families won’t/can’t work.
12. Remember your selling points: great work ethic, breadth of experience, stability.
13. Resume tip: You don’t have to list every job you’ve ever had, just the last 15 years or so.
14. Resume tip: You don’t have to include the year you graduated from college.
15. Resume tip: Learn how to format the document for online submission and scanning.
16. Interview tip: Avoid discussing subjects that date you (e.g., the Vietnam War, Watergate).
17. Interview tip: Demonstrate flexibility and openmindedness.
18. Interview tip: The hiring manager may be younger than you. Don’t treat him or her like a kid.
19. You may be angry at having to hunt for a job. Don’t show it.
20. Some companies actually prefer older workers. Find them. Good luck!
Karen Burns, Working Girl, is the author of The Amazing Adventures of Working Girl: Real-Life Career Advice You Can Actually Use
Reader Comments Read all comments (8)
Yuriy of CA 5:45AM October 01, 2009
Debbie Metcalf of NC 12:16PM September 19, 2009
marjorie gilbreth of TX 8:35PM August 16, 2009