Finding a new job after a certain age, especially when you are in your late 50s, can prove to be quite challenging.
Older workers have a lower unemployment rate than younger workers, but they also find it difficult to land new positions once they have been out of work for some time.
An AARP analysis of the data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that in March 2020, job seekers between the ages of 55 to 64 were unemployed for an average duration of 20.9 weeks.
In comparison, the average duration of unemployment for all workers was 17.5 weeks.
If you are above the age of 55 and looking for a job, read on to unravel six secrets to getting hired at your age.
Start searching now
Do not wait for your unemployment to run out before you start seeking a new position. Your prospects for getting a new job increase dramatically if there is a very small or almost no gap on your resume.
On the other hand, a large gap can lead to frustration as your chances of getting hired again, keep getting slimmer with passing time. Start earnestly searching for a new job as soon as you leave the older one.
Use your networking skills
Despite the many new ways to seek jobs, such as social media and online portals, one of the best ways of getting hired is still through your personal contacts at the company for which you are looking to work.
Make a short and smart resume
Having experience of many decades of work behind you that includes several jobs in many companies is great. However, on your new resume there is no need to include every position you held in the past.
Instead, focus on recent accomplishments and newly acquired skills. Highlight the last 10 years of your career.
Avoid mentioning age during the interview
Do not call attention to your advancing age by mentioning jobs on your resume that you held more than twenty years ago. Refrain from any comment on a younger manager’s age or any mention of your age during the interview.
Any reference to the age of a younger person interviewing you would seem patronizing and in poor taste.
Put your younger manager’s mind to rest
A manager younger in age or with less experience than you might not be comfortable with supervising you. You must communicate to a younger manager that you are okay with taking direction from them and are not gunning for their job position.
This would go a long way in putting their insecurity at ease.
Display your tech-savvy
There is a general perception about the lack of tech friendliness among older workers. Highlight your technical skills and your willingness to keep abreast with new developments to your potential employers.
During the interview, make your comfort with social media and new technology evidently clear. Include your LinkedIn URL, industry-related relevant social media contribution or any work-specific query you might have answered on professional platforms.
