Many seniors are looking for work, either for a career change or simply to contribute in the community and keep their mind active. Unfortunately, there are still some incidences of ageism amongst employers, but there are many opportunities to be had as well. Several recommendations provided here can help you to land a job. Experience is on your side in finding a job and your ability to be resourceful.
Background Research
Do some homework about the work you are seeking to get into. Read job profiles and explore career fields from self-assessment exercises. If the field you are considering is altogether new for you, look up people who do the jobs you are interested in and ask for 20 minutes of their time over coffee. Find out what a daily routine looks like and aspects that are favourable and unfavourable about the job for that person.
Update Your Skills
You may already know a lot about computers, but it helps to have the latest computer courses (e.g., courses on Windows 10, Microsoft Office 2016) on your resume to show a potential employer that you have current computer skills. You will also need to stay on top of changes in the field you are interested so that an employer knows that your knowledge and skills are current.
Your Resume
It is highly recommended that you get resume help where it is available to you. If you have been laid off, your last employer may offer resume help through a career counselling service. Your local Employment Centre can help you to create a resume and provide you with additional help, through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program. Obtaining a professional email address from Gmail is also recommended, as using an AOL, Yahoo or Hotmail address will date you.
Networking
Use your network to find jobs, including friends, colleagues, relatives and acquaintances. Find out how others achieved their goals. To build your network, get connected online with co-workers and peers through LinkedIn and Facebook. Your may be able to join groups related to the field you would like to work in and read or post interesting articles and participate in discussions.
Job Websites and Employment Agencies
Register with the top job websites and recruitment agencies that post jobs in the field you are seeking, including linkedin.com, workopolis.com, monster.ca, indeed.ca. Service Canada also has a job bank and job seeker support. Look also on industry association websites and directly on desired employer’s websites for openings that you may be qualified for.
The Interview
Learn about common interview questions that you could be asked. Many interview questions and answers are available online. If possible, seek the help of a career counsellor to give you feedback on how you would fare in a mock interview.
Be Flexible
Consider all your options. Be flexible in your hours, salary, vacation, work days and arrangements and don’t limit yourself to seeking full-time employment only. Consider consulting, volunteering, part-time, temporary work, self-employment, and a combination of these. Have a variety of experience and income sources to reduce your risks if one source comes to a close. If you are thinking of starting a business, try it from home if possible in order to lower your overhead costs.
Keep a Positive Attitude
Stay positive about your job search. A career change typically takes about eight months to a year or more to occur. Learn what you can along the way and contribute where you can as well. The experience of working in a new field can be invigorating but the journey is just as important as well.
