Unemployment is very difficult for people who are over the age of 45. However, older workers have responsibilities such as car loans and mortgages which mean they must work. Many older women are also victims of domestic violence and need to find employment for the first time. For these people, it is necessary to have special job seeking strategies which can ensure financial security.
Some strategies to help older workers are;
- Upgrade and maintain skills
- Target companies that employ older workers
- Network socially and with professional organisations
- Offer to work flexible hours
- Emphasise the benefits of experience
- Become self employed.
1. Upgrade and Maintain Skills
It is important for older workers to maintain their skills. This may refer to any industry skills such as computing skills. In order to upgrade these skills it might be necessary to undergo training. An older worker should be willing to further their education to make their qualifications more relevant. Recent study will show a boss that the worker is willing to continue learning and will adapt to change. These are two attributes which are attractive to prospective employers.
2. Target Companies that Employ Older Workers
Older workers should be willing to pursue any work available. However, it is wise to target organisations that are known to employ older workers. Some companies such as fast food companies will only employ young people. It is a waste of time to target these places. However, other companies such as government agencies must consider applicants on merit and are not averse to employing older workers.
3. Network
Many people find jobs through networking. Today networking is more available and important. Online networking sites abound and can be used to find employment opportunities. Talk to friends and family about work and circulate a resume through social networking sites. The results may be surprising.
In addition, older workers have access to other networks such as professional forums. Target these networks and also consider working on a volunteer basis for them. This work provides contacts which can lead to employment.
4. Offer to Work Flexible Hours
Older workers have many advantages over younger workers. For example, they are less likely to be unavailable on weekends or holidays. At an interview, and older worker can offer to work unsociable hours that younger people avoid. Those without dependent responsibilities may offer to work during school holidays. Employers will see this availability as an advantage.
5. Emphasise the Benefits of Being Older
There are many benefits of being older, such as experience and proven fiscal responsibility, for example, having the experience of paying car loans or mortgages. In an interview, emphasise the advantages of these benefits to an employer. A positive approach to age will impress a prospective boss.
6. Become Self Employed
For many older workers, the best solution to unemployment is to become self employed. This may provide the opportunity to make a hobby financially profitable. It combines enjoyment with economic gain and is a happy solution for people who are having difficulty finding work. Market stalls, online auction sites, independent writing or photography can all result in extra income and potential businesses for the older person.
Unemployment is particularly difficult for older people, many of whom are unemployed and in emotionally difficult circumstances. These circumstances can include domestic violence situations or redundancy. It is important in these situations to develop strategies to become financially secure. Self employment, flexibility and training can all contribute towards finding a new and profitable career.