7 Tips for Job Hunters Over 55

As the job market continues to evolve, job hunting can be daunting, especially for those over 55. The good news is that you can find the job you want with the right strategies and a positive attitude. Here are seven tips to help you in your job search

1. Update Your Resume

Embrace your experience and age by emphasizing your work ethic, reliability, and maturity, so the employer can see how these qualities can contribute to the success of the organization.

Your skills and competencies should impress hiring managers, not the fact that you worked at your first job decades ago. For most employers, the main thing that matters is whether or not you have the right skills to be successful in your job. Demonstrate how your skills match the job’s requirements by using tangible examples. Getting rid of experience more than ten years old is perfectly acceptable, as is getting rid of the dates you went to college.

2. Utilize Technology

The ability to use technology is seen as one of the most significant differences between younger and older workers. 

It is a myth that older job seekers do not have the ability to keep up with changing technology. By using the right devices, having an active social media presence such as LinkedIn, and communicating via SMS and email, you can show prospective employers you have a firm grasp of technology.

When you take part in online education, you show that you are not stuck in your ways and are eager to learn new things and demonstrate that you are comfortable with technology. You can gain valuable employment credibility by earning an online degree or a certificate in a relevant field.

3. Network, Network, Network

Your network is one of the greatest assets in your job search. Reach out to past coworkers, friends, and professional contacts for leads and referrals.

Newspaper classifieds are gone, as are the days of submitting a few resumes and waiting for employers to contact you. Now you need to think creatively to attract employers’ attention. Networking is among the most valuable skills a job seeker over 50 can learn today. Interactions on a face-to-face level can never be replaced. Be sure to network with people who can provide referrals so that you can approach employers from different angles. 

4. Nail the Interview

As a result of being promoted through the ranks, many older workers have not experienced regular interviews and may be rusty with this vital skill.

The interview is about connecting with the employer, selling yourself, and demonstrating your passion, energy, and enthusiasm. Consider how you want to be perceived before showing that you will fit in since you will have to work a little harder than your younger competitors. After that, it’s all about practice.

5. Show That You’re a Team Player

There is often an impression that older workers are stubborn or set in their ways. 

It does not matter what age you are; organizations are looking for team players. A younger manager may be concerned about managing someone in their parent’s generation or feel that an older candidate will not be able to relate or work with a younger team. Demonstrate your abilities as a team player, your ability to take direction from younger colleagues or to learn from them, and your excitement to embrace the future.

6. Stay Patient and Positive

Do not take it personally if your job search takes longer than you expected. It is challenging for everyone out there. 

A candidate’s age and experience are often a double-edged sword when looking for work. Older candidates usually have to work harder to overcome discrimination; however, age won’t be a barrier with the right strategy. Let your passion for work shine through in your cover letter and interview. Employers want to see that you’re motivated and committed to your next career move.

Getting cranky during the job search and interviewing process will just promote the perception that you’re a “grumpy old person. By remaining positive, networking, and focusing on your skills and competencies, you will sooner or later be recognized as the best candidate. 

7. Seek Out Age-Friendly Employers

Take advantage of online job boards and professional networking sites, such as Jollity Jobs, to find job openings and connect with potential employers.

If you can be smart about finding companies facing turnover problems, you can be their solution. A study found that older workers stay on the job three times longer than younger ones. The smartest way for senior job seekers is to use our Job Board or search for employers with our Older Workforce Approved badge on their website.

Ultimately, job-hunting can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can find the job you want. Be positive, focus on your strengths, and never stop learning, and you will find success.

About Jollity Jobs

Jollity finds part-time, temporary, and contract jobs specifically for anyone over 50. We help older workers stay active, engaged, and out of the house with jobs they love. Whether you’re retired or not, the employers on Jollity are always looking for mature adults who are eager to explore their hidden talents through fulfilling and rewarding jobs and freelance work. You’ll find employers on Jollity who respect and value your lifetime of experience and achievements. You won’t waste time applying for jobs that pass you over only because of your age.