New Jobs Over 50

Would you like a new job? Do you need a fresh start? Do you feel a little daunted about the prospect of joining the employment market over the age of 50?

Apprehension is normal at any age when it comes to putting yourself into a competitive market, but as a jobseeker over the age of 50, you have skills that will be valuable. Don’t create obstacles in your head before you start – are you worried about applying for jobs because you feel nervous within yourself about your age? Evaluate your feelings, and deal with them appropriately. 

Set objectives

Be clear about your goals. Are you seeking casual, temporary, part-time or full-time employment? Why are you looking for work? What are your strengths, skills and experience? Do you have all the qualifications for the positions you are applying for?

Seek a job that you will be able to do. If a position calls for heavy lifting and you know you that may present a physical challenge, even if it is a job you have done before, it might be best to keep looking. It is always better to exceed people’s expectations and honestly evaluate your own abilities.

Be open minded

If you expect your new employer to have no pre-conceived ideas about you, be the same. Don’t arrive at an interview and feel intimidated because other applicants seem younger or more qualified. Be confident in who you are as a person, and what you have achieved to date. Life experience is a huge draw-card – you will have faced many situations in your life that you can use to your advantage. 

Be honest

You are who you are. At an interview, be prepared to answer questions that may be uncomfortable. Remember such questions are designed to see how you will react in certain situations. Keep a level head and answer to the best of your ability.

Be prepared

Before you apply for a job, check what skills you require. Will you need to up-skill in a certain area? Technology is moving at a rapid rate and it may be necessary to take a short course to brush up on computer skills, or to come up to date with new terminology in your industry.

Experience is invaluable, so don’t feel dismayed if it seems a lot has changed since you first applied for work – imagine being 20 and applying for your first job with no experience to draw on – you can’t do a course to learn that!

Research the companies you apply to. Interviewers love to talk to candidates who have done their homework and show initiative. Seek advice on interview techniques if you feel out of practice. Your feelings about yourself will show through, so always arrive, prepared, confident and ready for a new challenge. Good luck in your search!