Career Center - Your job search

Finding a new job can be a challenge at any age, but it seems as if the older you are, the harder it is. Many employers are reluctant to hire older workers for numerous reasons. The good news is that there is a growing trend among employers to seek out older workers in order to take advantage of their years of experience and proven dependability. If you know these strategies for how to look for a job after 50, you stand a much better chance as success.

Job Searching Strategies:

1. Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Personal and professional networking can both enhance your job search. Whether it’s utilizing your college alumni networks, professional organizations or church groups, making connections can lead to job offers. The old adage, “It’s not what you know, but who you know,” rings true for practically every industry.

2. Use a recruiting firm. A recruiter, or headhunter, can submit you for positions that are not publicly listed and advocate on your behalf to employers.

3. Attend career fairs geared towards older workers. Nationwide there are job fairs featuring employers actively seeking older workers

4. Sign up for membership with senior job-placement websites. There are several websites that feature job boards specifically directed towards jobs for older workers. Most of these sites also offer the opportunity for you to post your resume on their site to be seen by potential employers.

The most effective way to job search is to approach the endeavor from multiple directions. Rather than choosing just one job searching strategy, do them all. It can take weeks or months to find a new job, but the more poles you have in the water, the more like it is you’ll get a bite.