Job Searches in Mid-Life and Beyond

Because I coach mid-lifers in creating the life of their dreams, sometimes that includes changing careers or changing jobs. Data from several sources indicates it is now more difficult to find a job after age 50. There are many articles and books out about this phenomena. With boomers wanting to work longer either from necessity or from choice, this is going to be a challenge many will face sooner or later. If you are forty now and plan to work until you are 65 or 70, it is highly likely you will not still be at the same job until then. So what can you do to improve your chances that you will find a job that satisfies you and meets your needs?

There are many ways to find job openings and to apply. First is networking. Networking means simply contacting every one you know and letting them know in clear and unambiguous terms what kind of job you are looking for and that you are in the job market. The clearer and more definite you are, the easier it will be for your network to "hear" about an opening that matches you. This means, not just your friends and family, but your hairdresser, your neighbors, your accountant, basically everyone in your Rolodex and business card file. Dig out your old previous company rosters and give some of your former co-workers a call. When you meet someone new and it is appropriate, be sure to let them know what you are looking for. Contact your list at least once a month or every other month.

Second way is searching job listings on the Internet and in the newspapers. There are literally thousands of job search sites on the Internet, some very general and some specific to industry, type of job, location, etc. You can typically apply online at these sites submitting your resume and cover letter. This may result in an interview, but can be very discouraging because companies receive thousands of resumes this way. Yours is just one in a large pile. One further step you can take, especially if it is a job you are very excited about, is to contact the company directly. Often the listing gives you company name and contact information. If not, it is often easy to figure out which company it is in a particular location and the contact information is public information (ask your librarian or search online). Call the contact person directly and ask for an interview.

A third way to find a job is to search individual company websites for career or job openings. If you know you'd like to work in a particular company or a particular industry, this is a good way to find what jobs are open and again, the contact information. Again, contacting individuals in the company directly is more effective than just mailing a resume. You probably see a trend here: that is to talk to people instead of sending emails or mail.

Of course, finding an opening is only part of the job search. You must have a beautifully written, compelling resume and cover letter and great interview skills and style. Future columns will cover these two areas. If you are in doubt about your resume or your interviewing skills, a coach (like me!!) can often help tremendously.

If you are over 50 and have completed a successful job search, how did you do it and what were your experiences? Please leave a comment if you'd like to share your story.

All blog content is copyrighted, all rights reserved, Mary Anne Fields and Life Unfolds, 2006