RFL: Ideas for “Mature” Job Seekers

Some experts suggest more training or use of employment services when helping job seekers 50 and over. This approach is highlighted in an Urban Institute article in 2011, “Can Unemployed Older Workers Find Work?” The article’s position may not, however, offer the best advice for those seeking an opportunity.

One great initiative is offering networking services and increasing social media connections to assist in the job search. This is a welcome and necessary undertaking. There is a constant that can interfere with its effectiveness. If you connect with a person who has no job to offer, it is often just a conversation. The most effective connection, then, is when someone has a job to offer and is connected to someone is ready to accept that opportunity. That is the connection that is needed based on our current conversation.

It is important to think about questions prospective employers may ask about older workers. How long will the person stay with us? What kind of time will the person spend with us before retiring? How will the person fit with younger workers? These are all valid questions, but they should not be disqualifying. More important, the questions should be posed equally, with minor changes, for younger job seekers.

No one has all the answers to finding a job. This is food for thought and something employers may want to consider. If you are interested in the conversation, you can share your thoughts with me or take my survey.