I know from experience that finding a job over 50 is tough. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of 8 secrets to getting hired when you’re over 50, so you can land a job.
If you’re in the market for a job, you probably fall into one of three categories.
- First, you’re still in the workforce but want to make a career change.
- Second, you’re unemployed or underemployed.
- Third, you need a second job to supplement your income.
No matter which of the three categories you find yourself in, these basic tips might improve your odds of finding the job you want.
How To Be Successful At Finding A Job Over 50:
1. Update and Shorten Your Resume.
So, one of the best tips I can give for finding a job over 50 is to update and revise your resume. Keep it current if you are still in the workforce. This is absolutely one of the most essential keys for finding a job over 50 and getting an interview and a position.
Make sure that you list your most recent jobs and include those that go back no more than 10 years. If you have been out of the workforce for a while, only list your most recent positions.
Be sure to include any educational background or credentials you have earned, but be careful about adding information that would lead to age discrimination and possibly cost you a crucial interview.
If you want to land a job over 50, use your cover letter to explain why you’re the right fit for the job.
And, if you have a particular company in mind, find out what kind of resume they like. Some HR departments prefer a detailed, lengthy resume, and others like one or two pages at the most. Also, most companies do not want a paper resume handed to them.
You should know how to use email and how to save your resume in PDF format. This is important so that you can submit them to an online site or to the Human Resources Department.
2. Express Your Comfort With Technology
Too often, those over 50 are regarded as being incapable of using technology efficiently. So, you’ll want to make it clear to potential employers that you are tech-savvy and you stay current with the latest advancements.
To overcome age bias, you’ll want to express your comfort with newer technology and social media platforms during your interview.
One way is by including your LinkedIn URL on your resume. Or, refer to an impressive item you saw on the employer’s Twitter feed or other social media platform.
3. Look The Part
First impressions are everything, even if it’s only a profile photo. This is especially true when finding a job over 50.
I think that this is one of the most job-related tips. Your personal style is very important and speaks very clearly about who you are without having to say a word.
Now is the time to start getting yourself in shape. If you need to lose a few pounds, don’t wait till an interview is a week away, and try a crash diet and exercise routine.
Start eating healthy now and get some exercise. This will help raise your stamina and increase your mental alertness as well.
If you’ve spent most of your time indoors, get out and get some sun. You will look more vibrant, feel healthier, and that might create a better first impression.
Another important thing to consider is your wardrobe. Your clothes need to look current but not trendy. Remember that fashion changes, but style is timeless.
4. Sell Your Strong Points
If you’re interested in finding a job over 50, then you’ll need to leverage your experience and go after the job where you can use your skills and abilities to the fullest.
Many of us have had that feeling of being trapped in a job that is unfulfilling.
You can search the internet for all kinds of job interview tips, but the fact is, you don’t want to be mismatched for a job.
This is the time to target what you really want and once you’ve narrowed it down, then pursue it.
5. Start Searching Online Immediately
Don’t wait until your unemployment runs out to start your job search.
Your chances of finding a job over 50 are going to be tough enough without having a long period of being unemployed on your resume.
Having a time gap and giving the interviewer a sense that you’re getting irritated with searching for a job will make it even more challenging to get hired again.
If you are genuinely wanting to land a good-paying job, learn how to search for one online.
This is a job-hunting tip you can’t afford to overlook. Don’t rule out freelancing or part-time positions to supplement your income till you land the job you want.
Depending on your experience, you might want to look into Flexjobs, Fiverr, 99Designs, and similar sites to pick up some extra cash.
Try checking out SimplyHired.com or Monster.com, and they’re a quick and easy resource to use when you’re looking for a job. These sites will provide you with the latest advice about resumes and cover letters.
They’ll often highlight genuine success stories about people who have found jobs or started their own flourishing businesses. Plus, you’ll get some very practical information and job interview tips to help you find a position.
6. Use Social Networks
The best way to find a job is through your personal contacts. You can avoid a lot of age discrimination if someone who knows you can vouch for you.
LinkedIn is a great site that’s specifically geared to help people connect with prospective employers and others in your field.
You can greatly benefit from this online community to give you all kinds of job interview tips. You can use LinkedIn to get pointed in the right direction for locating a job in your area of expertise. And, what’s more, it’s free and only takes a few minutes to sign up.
7. Don’t Be Shy
If you submit an application and don’t receive a response within a few days, then follow up. Companies are swamped with applicants. Sometimes by displaying a little more initiative you’ll land a position.
8. Consider A Temporary Placement Service
Although this is number eight on our list, it might be one of the best tips yet. Often, the pay isn’t the greatest, and there are limited benefits, but a temporary placement service has two key advantages.
- First, it gives you an opportunity to gain a perspective on the inner workings of a company and decide whether you want to seek a position with them.
- Second, it allows the employer the chance to see what you can do. This could lead to a full-time employment situation that would be beneficial to both you and the company.
I hope you found these tips for finding a job over 50 to be helpful. Be sure to check out my other posts on this topic as well.
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