Job Search

No one likes the process of finding a new job and for seniors and baby boomers, it can be especially challenging – not because there aren’t jobs out there, but because we tell ourselves we might not be the perfect candidate. I found out, however, in helping a 55 year-old friend start a new career search after a long time at one job, that smart, savvy employers understand the value of experienced maturity and the Internet speeds the process.

The first thing I did was to highlight Susan’s currently sought-after job skills. We put computer and technical knowledge at the head of her résumé and highlighted them in the cover letters she would post at online job sites. She decided to take a couple of adult-ed classes, like spreadsheets and presentation applications.

Our research turned up companies that like to hire older (mature, dependable) workers. IBM, CVS Drugs, McDonald’s Corporation, many large retailers, Scripps Health, AT&T, Verizon, IRS, the Peace Corps, and others have hiring programs dedicated to seniors.

Susan joined a networking group in her community. We both enjoyed going to meetings and hooking up with people – in fact, I found a new customer, as well. I got back in the habit of carrying a good supply of business cards and I vowed to update my personal Web site – people like to do business with providers they know personally. We leveraged online networking, too.

After seeing a segment on Dr. Phil about surviving the current economic issues, Susan took on an entrepreneurial project as she looked for a job. Dr. Phil advised never counting on one income when you’re in a pinch. Susan ran a local classified ad. She offered Web design for other entrepreneurs. She got six customers in two weeks.

Other options include registering with a temp agency (the major ones like Kelly or Manpower) – I did that in college and loved the freedom of taking assignments or turning them down. There are legitimate work-at-home opportunities, too. We thought about time share jobs, part-time work, and consulting.

We found great job opportunities for boomers. Susan had to be a tad more polished, more assertive and work harder to find the right opportunity, but she found it in about three months. Like my dad told me, if you want a 40-hour job, spend 40 hours a week looking. We 50-plus people are still in high demand and have a great deal to bring to the table.