Tough Times

Job seekers over the age of 55 have had a more difficult time than most during this recession.  The national unemployment rate for this group is at a historic high and seekers have been ending their job searches.  Despite their years of experience, many older unemployed job seekers fear they may not find work again.

Convincing potential employers that age is not a detouring factor in job performance can be difficult.  It seems, employers fear the older candidate has not kept up with technology, is going to retire soon, or has an unwillingness to learn.  There is no way around this, so the advice here is to “hit it head on”.  Address the issues in the first means of communications, email, cover letter, or phone interview or personal interview.  Explain your technical skills with your current education and experience.  Let them know how many years you feel you have left in you, so to speak, and express your willingness to learn, preferably without the “old dog new tricks” routine.

Along with work skills, the skills needed to perform a job search can be difficult.  The older candidate has probably not had to look for a job recently.  It’s a whole new world.  Hopefully this blog has some helpful information.  Good luck and thanks for visiting.