How Secure is Your Employment if You Are Over 50?

This series of articles mirrors what I've been experiencing. I coach and speak with many executives and managers in this "transition" period of their life. I know many 100K plus earners who have been out of work for more than a year. In their 50's, 60's and yes...70's. As the articles point out, it's hard to keep up with the lifestyle you've created for yourself when no income is coming in.

Creativity is the only way out of this. Creating your opportunity is the way out.

For many, their only concern is to finally get "a" job. As Taleb Nassim would say, they are in a "fragile" position. "Resistant" workers are like bamboo. They have sufficient savings, can take a hit and won't lose their house or retirement funds, etc. And then... there are those rare few who are "anti-fragile" and look at this time as a growth opportunity. A Nassim says, they are like the fire emblazoned by the wind.

Additional thoughts:

1. If you are fragile, "a" job is better than no job. Even if it's half of what you are used to getting paid. It stops some of the bleeding. You may agree in advance to address compensation in a few months should you be able to hit challenging benchmarks. And you can keep looking for a better job.

2. This is a good time to simplify your life. Let go of stuff. De-clutter your life so the Chi can flow. For years my mantra has been to keep it simple and beautiful. Allows for flexibility and works for me.

3. Don't wait for a job to come to you. Get super clear about what you want to do...and who you want to do it for. Then get curious about them and think of where you can add value. Then network yourself to the top. 

4. Know that any time we enter into a new phase in life there are challenges, learning and growth. Get excited about that fact. You will not live forever and this is the final phase of your working life. Make it special. Do what you want to do!

5. Get a coach to help you on this journey. It's an investment in your future. I'm a coach and I benefit from having one myself!

6. Get into a "support group" of other execs looking for work. They are in most cities. Recruiters sometimes manage them.

7. I encourage older workers to read Chip Conley's book Wisdom@Work. It will pump you up. We have much to contribute!

PS for you recruiters, HR execs and biz owners out there...there is 4% unemployment, yet great workers available. They are loyal, work hard, cause little drama, show up on time, have experience and skills, have management and leadership experience. All they want is an opportunity to show they can make a difference.