15 quick job-searching tips for 50-plus workers

If you are over the age of 50, searching for a job can be challenging, but keep in mind that senior candidates land great jobs, though it may take more time and effort than it did in the past.

That’s why it is important that you don’t add to the problem by continuing to search in an outdated way. Moreover, your attitude toward age can serve as a self-fulfilling prophecy, leaving you struggling to replace the job you had rather than moving forward.

Truthfully, every age group is affected by a job search due to the massive changes in the marketplace and globalization of business. The problems senior candidates often dwell on is their lack of success in the job market rather than focusing on their strengths.

If you feel your job search needs a lift, here are 15 quick tips that will come in handy when you need a different approach.

1. Show a clear focus — practice explaining and identifying what you are searching for when meeting with others in a concise manner.

2. Develop the right spirit — searching for a job will always bring a measure of rejection, it’s part of the process. Not being offered the job is not a reflection of your value or character; rather it means your skill sets were not a good match for the employer’s needs. Keep moving forward, as the next employer might be a perfect match.

3. Personal brand — take the time to write a personal branding statement. In today’s competitive environment, identifying what makes you unique helps you communicate your authentic self and skills.

4. Update your skills — going back to school or taking training classes to strengthen your knowledge and skills helps to demonstrate your ability to learn and stay current.

5. Create an online profile — an online profile plays a part of your job search. Your profile is not only for social interactions but for business reasons. It supports your resume as well as highlights your experience to help recruiters easily match your background to employer’s needs.

6. Develop a plan of action — without a job search plan you are more apt to lose your focus. A plan of action helps you discover what activities are producing the greatest results. It keeps you on track and helps remind you to follow up on leads.

7. Networking strategy — knowing what to say when you meet people is a significant factor in expanding your connections. Without a strategy, you are likely to end up having good conversations without generating additional names or information to pursue.

8. Resume format — as a senior candidate your resume needs to quickly grab the employer’s interest by showcasing your current skills. A chronological resume format combined with your key skills and branding summary helps establish your value. Keep your resume length no longer than two pages. Choose relevant accomplishments to the employer’s needs. 9. Research prospective employers — list the employers where your background and experience would add value. Once you develop the list, use it while actively networking to help brainstorm with others and seek advice. Researching helps you take more control of your job search.

10. Know yourself — how can you influence an employer to hire you if you have difficulty naming your top five strengths? Know why you are interested in a specific career field and your accomplishments.

Test your self-knowledge by answering this question, “If there are four candidates with your same education, credentials and experience, what would make you memorable to employers?”

11. Practice interview questions — employers basically want to know why you are interested in the job, and if you have the skills and qualifications, communication skills and likeability. Practice answering the toughest questions that concern you the most.

12. Know your value — talk about your contributions in terms of results using quantitative or qualitative information. Back up your accomplishments with proof rather than just making statements.

13. Learn how to negotiate — know your compensation range and market rate. Learn how to negotiate your compensation and other perks that are important to you during the offer stage. Practicing negotiating skills ahead of time will strengthen your confidence when the subject of money comes up during the process.

14. Keep a sense of humor — overcoming stereotypes with age is reality. Learning how to put people at ease and build rapport is priceless. A sense of humor helps you deal with setbacks and discouragement. Humor is essential to maintaining a balanced life.

15. Overcome networking barriers — invite a friend to join you for a networking event if you are shy to help support your efforts. Join a job search group.

Write down networking questions and keep them handy just in case you need them. Volunteer to help at events. Take away barriers that keep you from taking risks in meeting new people.