In September of last year, I made a tough decision to return to the workforce after a seven-year attempt to make it as an entrepreneur. I am still working.
Going back to work put me in an environment I left for good reason. I didn't like the idea of working for younger bosses who thought they knew everything and didn't value what older workers brought to the table. I found it impossible to deal with younger co-workers who had the same attitudes. But I am not going to use this space to vent about the past. I am moving onward and upward in a new direction.
Over the past several years, this blog has been focused on boomer related subjects and issues. It will remain the same but with a clearer focus. As a boomer who has returned to the workforce I want to share some useful tips and information that can help others do the same thing.
This particular topic is on how to get back into the job market.
First of all let me say, finding a job is challenging for anyone in tough economic times but it's harder if you're over the age of 50. Although it's illegal for employers to discriminate based on age, any older job-seeker will tell you it happens ever day. Before I landed my current job, I sent out dozens and dozens of resumes and attended a number of job seminars.
Here are some job tips for boomers with some help from AARP:
1) Use books and online tools to help craft the best resume, which should be no longer than two pages. Don't let your resume reflect your age. Let your experience speak for itself.
2) Highlight your experience in detail on your resume and in your cover letter. Outline why you, an older employee, are the best candidate for the position.
3) If you haven't participated in an interview for awhile, you should brush up on your interview skills. Ask one of your teenage children/spouse or friend to ask you some anticipated questions.
4) Get in touch with old contacts. You never know who knows who and networking still remains one of the best ways to find a job.
5) Don't get discouraged. The job hunting process is truly an exercise in patience. You may be sending out dozens of resumes before you get your first call.
