Age-proofing strategies can be applied to job searches by older workers. Project-based work can be one example. You can use this to emphasize your skills and experience. Other age-proofing tips include being tech-savvy and understanding your online presence. Check out our job search checklist to baby boomers for more information.
A project-based approach to work is a good strategy
For older workers, project-based work can be a viable option as employers are always looking for temporary workers. This type of work is a great way for older workers to fill in the gaps on their resumes, and it will show potential employers their abilities and skills. These jobs are often available through multiple companies and are less demanding than full time positions. These jobs do not come with any benefits and can be terminated quickly.
Older workers possess experience and skills that aren't available to younger workers despite being older. During the recession, companies often promoted younger employees into management roles because they were cheaper to hire. This lead to high turnover, which in turn hurts office morale.
You can reframe the conversation around your age in order to highlight your strengths
For older workers, you can change the conversation to focus on your strengths and qualifications. In the workplace, discrimination against age is a problem. People often judge books based on their covers. You don't have too much to apologize for being older to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Highlighting your past achievements and strengths can help you stand out from the rest of the candidates.
Many older workers are subject to age discrimination while job hunting. A typical American has over ten jobs during their lifetime. This makes age discrimination particularly problematic for older workers. In a recent survey, AARP found that three out of five older workers had experienced age discrimination in the workplace. Twenty-five percent had suffered negative comments from colleagues due to their older age. While age discrimination is illegal, many recruiters still struggle with age-related unconscious biases.
Thank you notes should be sent after each interview
Thank you notes after interviews should be sent to professionals using a professional email address. Also, make sure that your note is signed appropriately. Avoid using a whimsical signature or trying to imitate other people's signatures. You should not copy and paste the same wording every time you interview.
Your thank-you note should be specific, but not too specific. It should convey an overall feeling of gratitude and excitement about the opportunity. It should also reflect your qualifications for this position.
Keeping positive throughout a long job search
Your well-being depends on your ability to remain positive while you are searching for a job. It is easy for you to become discouraged if things aren’t going according to plan. After all, you have sent out hundreds of resumes, spent hours filling out application errors, and talked to former co-workers and friends. You receive very little feedback. Some companies even ghost you.
Fortunately, there are many resources available to help older workers stay positive during their extended job search. The AARP provides many resources including audio recordings, presentations, and other information. It also provides advice and tips for successful job searches. Encore Boston Network, a program developed by the organization, provides information to employers about hiring older workers. The program's goal is to raise awareness about the value of experienced workers and commit to equal opportunity for all employees regardless of age. More than 1000 companies have adopted this initiative, from a range of industries.