Once upon a time, people would take a job with a company, work there for forty years, and retire with benefits. Today there are plenty of older workers who find themselves looking for work instead of planning their retirement. No employer can even hint that age is a factor when an individual is turned down for a job, but the harsh reality is that ageism in the workplace is alive and well.
One of the things that concerns employers about older workers is the perception that they lack even general knowledge about workplace technology. Some seniors are very tech savvy, but others struggle. If you need brushing up on your computer skills for instance, you can always get some training at a technical school or community college.
Appearance matters when you're looking for a job. An interviewer will notice immediately when you show up looking less than your best. There is no point in trying to look thirty years younger than you are however. Inappropriate attire, too much eye shadow, or trendy piercings will make the wrong impression. You can look as good as possible for your age by exercising, eating right, and getting enough sleep. A good outlook is attractive as well.
Sometimes older workers have a hard time marketing themselves. Even very accomplished people have trouble getting hired because employers are afraid they will have to offer that person substantially more than someone younger and less experienced. If this is something you have run up against, you might consider offering to work part time, from home, on short term assignments, or as a job consultant.
If you aren't having any success getting hired, it may be time to think about going into business for yourself. There are ways to launch your own company without going into years of debt. One way is to market your product or services on the internet. You will eliminate the cost of a storefront and potentially reach a huge audience.
There may be limited opportunities in your chosen field. If this is the case, you may need to rethink your options. Volunteering and interning are two ways to get noticed in a company and may lead to a paid job offer. You will certainly meet people who might help you, and you will be staying up to date with the business world.
When you have been called in to interview for a position, be sure your resume is current and professional. Researching the company and the position in question, prior to the interview, is a good idea. You will be prepared to ask intelligent questions and present yourself as the best choice for the job.
Getting older isn't easy. If you are job hunting, you will be faced with plenty of rejection. You should be prepared to counter the prejudice you find with patience and persistence.
One of the things that concerns employers about older workers is the perception that they lack even general knowledge about workplace technology. Some seniors are very tech savvy, but others struggle. If you need brushing up on your computer skills for instance, you can always get some training at a technical school or community college.
Appearance matters when you're looking for a job. An interviewer will notice immediately when you show up looking less than your best. There is no point in trying to look thirty years younger than you are however. Inappropriate attire, too much eye shadow, or trendy piercings will make the wrong impression. You can look as good as possible for your age by exercising, eating right, and getting enough sleep. A good outlook is attractive as well.
Sometimes older workers have a hard time marketing themselves. Even very accomplished people have trouble getting hired because employers are afraid they will have to offer that person substantially more than someone younger and less experienced. If this is something you have run up against, you might consider offering to work part time, from home, on short term assignments, or as a job consultant.
If you aren't having any success getting hired, it may be time to think about going into business for yourself. There are ways to launch your own company without going into years of debt. One way is to market your product or services on the internet. You will eliminate the cost of a storefront and potentially reach a huge audience.
There may be limited opportunities in your chosen field. If this is the case, you may need to rethink your options. Volunteering and interning are two ways to get noticed in a company and may lead to a paid job offer. You will certainly meet people who might help you, and you will be staying up to date with the business world.
When you have been called in to interview for a position, be sure your resume is current and professional. Researching the company and the position in question, prior to the interview, is a good idea. You will be prepared to ask intelligent questions and present yourself as the best choice for the job.
Getting older isn't easy. If you are job hunting, you will be faced with plenty of rejection. You should be prepared to counter the prejudice you find with patience and persistence.
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