Caregiver

Kitty McKinzie

February 14,2020 at 1:44AM UTC

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

I posted that I was a caregiver and some how I feel that there has been a misunderstanding I said I was a caregiver which I am THAT is my career now. I do however want to change careers but don't know how and if I have what it takes after reading " 5 things women over 50 need to know about applying for a job today" now that was really depressing. I have considered going into office work because I'm familiar with that from my past work experience 1979-2009. Any help of any kind is surely appreciated. Thanks Kitty

Why women love us:

Daily articles on career topics
Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
Advice and support from an authentic community
Events that help you level up in your career
Free membership, always

3 comments

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

3 Comments

Join the conversation

Lynne CoganFebruary 14,2020 at 2:27AM UTC
I was just about to read that article when I saw your post.
Please, do not let it intimidate you. I agree with some of what was written but not all.
For instance, it mentions today's fierce competition. Forget competition. Think in terms of matchmaking. You are looking for the right job for you, just as the employer is looking for the employee who can be of the most service to them. Figure that interviewing is akin to dating.
You may have to do a little training. There are free and low-fee classes all over the internet better known as Mass Open Online Courses or MOOC for short.
Networking is extremely helpful and can completely bypass any age discrimination.
You can do this.
If you want to discuss this in depth, send me a invitation to connect. I promise, you will be able to afford it. I will explain privately.
Like
AnonymousFebruary 14,2020 at 5:13PM UTC
Wishing you lots of luck. Try to enjoy the search process and I agree with Lynn, it is like dating. Do not be intimidated. Connect with women here and on LinkedIn.
Like
Sandra DiazFebruary 14,2020 at 10:20PM UTC
Hi Kitty, here's a process for you to consider. It will help you prove how you can add value to a company regardless of your age or career hiatus.
First, write down the industries and companies that you have interfaced with frequently during caregiving. Also write down industries and companies you worked with before your career hiatus.
Second, put together a list of 100 companies in your area in those industries or competitors to the companies you've interfaced with that are in your area.
Third, write down any ideas on how those companies can improve their service to their clients/customers, based on your experience interacting with them.
Fourth, write hiring managers at those companies an email with the subject line "unsolicited advice" and mention your idea. Mention you can contribute to the company implementing such types of ideas in an administrative role (or whatever role you'd like). Send one email a day to land sooner, if not one email a week.
Fifth, connect with administrative peers (or other relevant functional peers) at the companies on your list on LinkedIn. Post relevant articles with one insightful 1-2 sentence comment. This so you can showcase your expertise to people who could refer you to a job. In your LinkedIn profile it is OK to our your previous experience and Caregiver for your most recent work with some accomplishments (yes, caregivers have to juggle multiple priorities, negotiate with others, just like any other job). If you have a college or associate's degree, connect also with alumni from your school. As you connect with people, ask how you can be useful to them.
Best wishes on your search!
Like