Job-Search Resources for Older Workers

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Times have indeed changed for older job hunters. The jobs are there--if they know how to go about getting them. That means learning how to use technology (most companies post jobs online now), researching companies (nearly all have websites), updating your skills and professional image.

Carol Silvis of PA 12:23PM April 16, 2011

Who would have thought that our golden years would be spent in near poverty. My husband was forced into early retirement and through the years our pension has decreased to the point we can't make ends meet. I am 61, and have been looking for a job for over a year. My generation can't understand that you no longer find a job in the newspaper, dress properly, and apply in person. Most of us don't have college degrees because our parents could not afford them. I am a valuable asset to someone because I have been to the College of Hard Knocks but no one wants me. Someone in Washington, DC has forgotton our seniors. No increases in SS but raises for them? Has anyone studied the increase in suicides in seniors?

Janie Howell of FL 9:30AM December 10, 2010

I have been retired for six years and I have been a member of AARP since my early fifties .I went to work after retiring for an AARP office. It was very difficult for me to understand what was expected of me even after turning in a resume. I think that the employers at these offices should be a little older than they might understand how proud we seniors are.

Juanita Williams of NV 12:35PM September 29, 2010

I have three warehouses that i have worked in,they all are in NY state at Bloomfield,NY,Victor,NY and Macedon,NY. Find me a job at Geneva,NY and all of these places please. This is from Thomas L. Cole Phone: (585)394-6757 home (585)739-0912 Cell.

Thomas L. Cole of NY 1:51PM June 01, 2010

It's hard for someone that's 50+ to compete with someone these days just out of college. It seems like companies don't really value what can only be taught through experience as much as they should.
I encourage anyone who finds themselves in this situation to look into buying a business. Buying a mature profitable business gives you cash flow from day #1. Instead of slogging around out there from job interview to job interview competing with these youngsters that you are obviously more qualified then, be your own boss. Put those years of experience to work by taking control of a business in your particular niche. If you can get the necessary capital together, it's the obvious way to go.
Anyone interested in the buying of a business should check out http://www.businessbuyeradvocate.com/ . It is a great blog full of must have knowledge for anyone thinking about taking the plunge. It’s frequented by quite a few experts in various aspects of the field that can help you with any questions you might have or perspective you might need.
Buying a business very well could be the most important decision you ever make in your life. You have to make sure you buy the right business the right way.

Frank Fitton of FL 2:36PM May 05, 2010

We as a country (Ireland) are being led by the needs of business and in doing so we forget about people and older people. The wealth of skills and experiences they can bring to any organisation cannot be bought. So instead of looking to make money quickly spend time building your business and customer base. The experiences of older people are not only relevant to your business but to what they have to offer society. They have lived through hardship and doing without, they are more likely to roll up their sleeves and work for solutions, so it is up to all employers to take seriously the skills and abilities of older people and give them their deserved place in the workforce.

Declan Baird 12:04PM April 21, 2010

This is a fascinating piece for readers in Ireland. There is widespread age discrimination in the workplace here, and many older workers struggle to find employment, especially in the current recession. This trend in the US may be an indication of what is to follow in Ireland. Thanks for running the article.

Eamon Timmins 4:31AM April 21, 2010

Why FedEx needs a UNION!!!
Go to YouTube, search word: FedEx Inhumane Treatment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YnbcCV2KI4

JMM of KY 10:48PM April 15, 2010

It is wonderful to see US News & World Report recognize the news value of a piece tailored to workers over 45 and the advantages or disadvantages they may face trying to find work.
At OurExperienceCounts.com, we have found more and more employers are recognizing the distinct advantage hiring experienced workers offers to their businesses' bottom line. From increased stability and less turn over to reduced training costs, the veteran worker is rapidly becoming becoming a valuable commodity.
And as you point out, it's trending that way more and more, as our workforce ages.
So now, the trick is for a veteran worker looking for a new job or career change, to see and sell themselves as an asset to be coveted, rather an after-thought to be rejected.
Thanks USN & WR, for once again being ahead of the curve.

Tom Wilson of CA 11:37PM April 14, 2010

This is really a great article. Thank you for providing this much needed information to the community. It is great to know that companies want to hire older workers, as I believe we have a lot to offer.

Peter Gagliardi of PA 1:14PM April 14, 2010