Tips for Life After 50 in the Job Market

Over 150 million jobs will shift to workers over the age of 55 by 2030, according to?a new global study from Bain & Company .??That is good news for those of you who are in the job market after working for 30+ years.? As an HR executive, I am often asked for advice on how to present yourself to employers during the golden years.? Below are a few tips to keep in mind:??

1. Sign up for a free trial of LinkedIn Learning so that you can quickly update your professional skills that may be dated or lacking. ?If interviewing, mention that you’re a lifelong learner, and always looking to learn new things and update your skills.
2. Avoid stating that “you are not very technical” during job interviews. Everyone needs to be comfortable with technology and have confidence that you can learn new things.?
3. Believe in yourself and think about all of the experiences that you can offer a new company. Think of your age as an asset, not as a liability.
4. Connect with younger people in your network who can help you understand social media platforms.? You want to show that you are familiar with the new ways of communicating in the workplace and comfortable doing so.?
5. Consider an inexpensive, online résumé service to refresh your résumé and modernize it.
6. Many department stores have free stylist services so consider refreshing your wardrobe so that you present yourself as having polish and confidence. It’s all about how you feel on the inside.? ??
7. ?You must become familiar with Teams and Zoom and other online video platforms that will most likely be part of the interviewing process. Practice with your friends and family. ?
8. ?Whatever you do, do not tell the interviewer that he/she reminds you of your children!? You want to focus on your skills, and not your age. ??
9. Consider trying to get a board position so that you can meet new people, leverage your experience, and land a new position.? ??

If you need any additional information, feel free to reach out to me for advice or networking.?

Bonnie Bystrek, SPHR