What are the Different Things That People Over 40 Have to Use When Looking for a Job
written by UltraJob
Making a career change is usually not very easy for anyone of any age; however, it can be exceptionally tricky for people over 40, especially if they have been out of the job market for a number of years. With a few helpful tips, however, someone over 40 can make some exciting things happen in their job search. Below are some of the best uses of your time if you find yourself in this category:
NETWORKING- If someone has been in the working world for a decent period of time, and most people over 40 have been, they may have made contacts with people in their industry through professional organizations, business dealings with other companies, chambers of commerce, etc. These connections should be used to your best advantage- this is not to say that you should just start calling people asking them for jobs, but rather make some casual contacts with the people that you know to find out if anything is available. Casually mention that you are seeking a position, and it is likely that one of your contacts will either give you some valuable information or point you in the direction of job openings outright.
NETWORKING- If someone has been in the working world for a decent period of time, and most people over 40 have been, they may have made contacts with people in their industry through professional organizations, business dealings with other companies, chambers of commerce, etc. These connections should be used to your best advantage- this is not to say that you should just start calling people asking them for jobs, but rather make some casual contacts with the people that you know to find out if anything is available. Casually mention that you are seeking a position, and it is likely that one of your contacts will either give you some valuable information or point you in the direction of job openings outright.
- SUPPORT GROUPS- We're not talking about some type of group therapy session for discouraged job seekers, but what we are talking about are meetings that are held in many community centers, churches, and local job centers that can offer valuable help in a successful job search. These meetings typically include tips on how to dress for job interviews, the types of questions you can expect to be asked, and even job openings, as many employers who are seeking experienced employees contact these groups directly as a recruiting tool. Best of all, these meetings are usually free of charge and located in your community; just keep you eye on the local newspaper, community bulletin board, or your church newsletter.
- STATE JOB CENTERS- Most every state has a job center as part of the services that are offered to the public, free of charge. These localized offices can also help with resume preparation and provide leads on job openings, as many employers take advantage of the benefit of free job posting, which is also offered as a service to the employers of the state. Many times as well, the state job centers offer free Internet access, so that you can surf the Internet for job postings and submit your resume electronically, saving you time and money.
GO ONLINE - Related to the state job centers idea, the Internet is now the prime marketplace for employers and employees. This also gives you the advantage of having a potential employer evaluate your experience before they can prejudge you on your age. Although age discrimination is illegal, the fact of the matter is that it happens anyway, so you owe it to yourself to have every advantage at your disposal.
In closing, just remember to keep with it and keep your chin up; eventually, your determination, and your experience, will land you the job you want. Your age will be nothing but a number!
In closing, just remember to keep with it and keep your chin up; eventually, your determination, and your experience, will land you the job you want. Your age will be nothing but a number!
