Boom or Bust – Job Search Tips for the Senior Worker

If you’re over 45 and suddenly find yourself laid off or looking for a career change, the thought of having to go down the road of work and compete against people much younger than you can be downright terrifying. It may have been years since you had to update your resume or attend a job interview, and you may be feeling a little rusty.

But take heart: As a middle-aged job seeker, you have a lot to offer, and employers increasingly value your unique set of skills and experiences. And with good reason: the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that 85 per cent of new job growth will come from people aged 45 and over by 2016. Now more than ever, it is imperative that both job seekers and employers adapt to the times. and recognize the value mature workers offer.

The facts about the Boomers

Australia’s Human Rights Commission found that older employees can save employers costs by staying longer in their jobs, in contrast to the sometimes fickle Generation Y workers (who are asked by the Federal Employment Minister just advised them to stop being so picky about jobs). In difficult times). Workers age 55 and older are five times less likely to change jobs compared to workers ages 20-24, and this directly reduces ongoing hiring and training costs.

And contrary to the perception that older workers are less healthy, ABS data has also found that older workers were the group least likely to take days off due to illness, reducing costs and impacts. negative in productivity.

One of the most common myths about older workers is that they are less tech-savvy than their younger colleagues, but older people are, in fact, the fastest growing users of technology.

What older workers have to offer

Critchley lists the many assets that older workers bring to the table. These include a broader skill base and broader experience, greater wisdom and maturity, a strong work ethic, the ability to speak their mind and act, dependability, trustworthiness, and loyalty to their employer.

Older workers could also be key for companies in difficult economic times. Mercer’s Workplace 2012 states that “older employees can be an invaluable resource, providing much-needed experience and corporate memory, which can be critical to successfully rebuilding a business out of economic downturn… Experience and guidance from older workers who have been with the organization for some time can be invaluable in developing younger staff.’

industry insights

Market perceptions of older workers can vary greatly by market segment, says Phil Hatchard of Adage, a website that caters to older job seekers and age-friendly older employers. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) tend to be extremely receptive to mature-age candidates, valuing their versatility and breadth and depth of experience, which can be invaluable to small and medium-sized businesses.

Recruiters, on the other hand, can present more challenges as their age profile tends to be more youthful. Larger, higher volume recruiting agencies find it difficult to educate their consultants on the value of hiring maturity. “They tend to perceive older workers as harder to fit into roles due to the misconception that they are less productive, won’t fit into the ‘busy’ culture, or may be too expensive. Of course, this is not based on the facts. That being said, smaller niche agencies are generally owned and operated by more experienced recruiters, and have a higher level of understanding and commitment to mature-age recruiting,” says Hatchard.

Out of practice… but not out of the game

The tendency of the older worker to stay longer with an employer means that many feel lost when they suddenly find themselves looking for work. “Many older workers haven’t had to write a resume, develop their interview technique or know how to market themselves effectively through online technologies,” says Phil Hatchard. But luckily, it’s never too late to learn.

What you can do

“Approach each job with enthusiasm and energy,” says Steve Gunther of 2discover, a recruiting firm that demonstrates a strong commitment to placing older workers. ‘The reality is that you have more experience, the same desire to do a good job and succeed as anyone in the market, young or old. Technology may be the only thing between you and someone from another generation. Get up to speed on Internet usage, computer skills, and presentation and content of resumes and cover letters.’

Know your strengths and market value

‘First, take some time to map out your key skills, strengths and passions, and be clear about the value you bring to an organization. In today’s market, experience and knowledge are vital to help companies that may be going through difficult times,” advises Hatchard.

It’s important to recognize that even if you’ve worked in an industry for a long time, your skills are transferable, and this is something to emphasize to prospective employers.

Stay connected with the market

Do everything you can to network, network, stay informed and up to date. This could mean attending networking events, using your children’s social events and school events to network, joining professional bodies, or attending professional development courses. Take your business cards with you wherever you go.

And don’t be afraid to call old contacts. ‘Use the calendar of contacts you’ve accumulated over the years and reach out to those you think can help point you in the right direction. You’d be surprised how helpful some people can be if you just ask!’ Hatchard says.

He also suggests selecting a reputable executive search or recruiting firm to provide advice and guidance on who to hire in your space, as well as keeping abreast of industry news through online newsletters or trade magazines. commercials to find out where the activity is. that is, what projects are underway and what companies are currently thriving in the market.

stay positive

While the job search can be daunting at times, it’s important to be resilient and stay positive. When you walk into an interview, you need to create the right impression almost instantly, because “employers can detect frustration and discouragement a mile away,” Hatchard warns. “Presentation is vital once you get your foot in the door, so stay fit and healthy and keep your energy levels up.”

‘The thing to remember is self-worth and self-esteem. Older workers have as much (if not more) to offer an employer as younger workers. The trick is to make sure you present and articulate your key strengths in a way that represents you as a person and as a professional,” Gunther points out.

So walk tall and keep your head up, knowing that you have a lot to offer a future employer. It is only a matter of time before you find the right one who values ​​your experience and allows you to continue growing and developing in your professional life.