How can I find a new job if I’m over 50?

8 Comments

1. Laura HoltSeptember 29,2022 at 3:07PM UTC

   I'd love to help you brainstorm, there's ways you can adjust your resume to deal with ageism. That's probably the first step. Then looking at what experience and skills you have, and where that fits.

2. Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterSeptember 29,2022 at 3:30PM UTC

   I work with clients all the time who have this concern. The first piece of advice I give them is two-fold: Focus on what you bring to the table, rather than what you don't have (fewer trips around the sun).

   Also, do your research on companies that value older workers - and keep in mind that if the company isn't interested in you just because of your age, then you shouldn't be interested in them either. Find companies that want you just as much as you want them!

3. AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 3:55PM UTC

   Oh how I've been there (also over age 50). Have you considered finding a recruiter? Would you be willing to take an entry-level type position to enhance your career?

4. AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 4:19PM UTC

   I say spice up your resume, go to the hair salon for a new color/cut, and pull out your favorite business suit. The economy is trying to reclaim itself. I can feel your position waiting for you to apply. Good luck and enjoy the hunt.

5. AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 6:16PM UTC

   Some of the posters are commenting as if you have been out of the workforce for a while and trying to find a job now that you are over 50. Is that the case? If so, then I agree with the advice given, but if its not the case then you have years of experience that are valuable to employers. Know your value, forget age and go for it!

   I am over 50 and just got a new job and had actually gotten a new job a year ago (I did not care for the culture so looked for something else) after spending over a decade at another employer. It's not easy to find a job at any age, but don't psych yourself out because you are on the older side and do not undersell yourself. Good luck!!

6. Stef FlorieSeptember 29,2022 at 6:25PM UTC

   Wokforce participation is a massive buzzword in Economic Development these days, and economists are all about getting more people to participate. You should be able to reach out to your state's Employment Commission for job openings.

   I'd also start being active on LinkedIn - share articles that are interesting to your industry, comment on other people's posts, repost interesting things. Keep your LinkedIn content fairly apolitical unless you're specifically looking for a job in a politically-charged arena.

   Source: I've noticed that my views double and triple when I post and comment.

7. Laura BairSeptember 30,2022 at 1:20AM UTC

   Thanks for the responses!

   Yes, I’ve been in the workforce, continuously, for slightly less than 40 years.

   I’ve been in the same type of position for 30+ years, in 3 different industries.

   i was just let go from my 25+ yr. position on 9/16 after a company buyout and restructure. While I have loads of A/R, A/P, sales, and purchasing experience I don’t have a lot of computer experience aside from Quickbooks.

8. Crystal HowellSeptember 30,2022 at 1:01PM UTC

   Try https://www.aarp.org, they have many options and webinars.