Job Hunting Tips for Those over Age 50
by Tim Manni
We recently heard a story about a 57-year-old employee at one of the nation’s major newspapers who believes his job is in jeopardy (that’s certainly nothing new). This employee has already survived one round of buy outs, waves of layoffs, and is currently dealing with unpaid furloughs, a depleted staff, and the ever-present notion that his job may not be there for him and his family tomorrow.
For “older” Americans who are about to re-enter the workforce, the thought of looking for a new job can be a frightening one. Employers in today’s job market tend to be more willing to hire younger workers — even though they may lack experience — than hire older workers who are used to making a larger salary. The number of unemployed workers over age 55 is at its highest point in history:
According to the Labor Department, the June unemployment rate for those 55 and older hit 7%–the highest on record. That’s bad news for seniors who are out of work or being forced to re-enter the work force to make ends meet.
Ken and Daria Dolan, known as “the first family of finance,” have shared several resources for 50+ Americans who are re-entering the workforce:
RetirementJobs.com is a website that specializes in helping Americans over the age of 50 find work. “…our goal is to identify companies most-suited to older workers and match them with active, productive, conscientious, mature adults seeking a job or project that matches their lifestyle. Whether you are here seeking to supplement your income, a new challenge, a way to get out and meet people, or another reason, welcome!”
MatureResources.org is a site that, among other things, provides baby boomers with financial and retirement planning advice. It also provides job opportunities through their Business Directory.
AARP.org is a site where 50+ Americans will find plenty of financial and employment advice. “As the nation’s largest membership organization for people 50+, AARP is leading a revolution in the way people view and live life after 50.”
Seniors.gov offers older Americans countless resources, from employment to money to cultural and health information.
The Dolans also suggest reading Arthur Kuman’s book “Jobs for People over 50: 101 Companies That Hire Senior Workers“.
Click here to find out more retirement advice from the “first family of finance”.
