6 Ways Older Job Seekers Can Overcome Age Bias

Individuals who are older know that they have a lot to offer, and using that to their advantage can help them find a job. Whether looking for a part-time or full-time job, working adds to an individual's sense of purpose and adds extra income. Knowing what employers are looking for can help an older worker land a job.

1.Demonstrate Your Work Ethic

An individual who has been at one job for a number of years shows that he or she has a strong work ethic. This is one of the most important traits a worker can offer these days when younger workers commonly flit from job to job. Sticking with one job shows dedication and this is appreciated. Companies do not want to train workers and then have them leave to take positions with other companies. Older workers who are committed to staying on the job are more likely to be hired than those who do not express this commitment.

2.Show Off Your Skills

The majority of employers know that older workers have a lot of experience and have developed valuable skills over the years. This makes older workers an asset to a company. Much of this knowledge comes from being employed in a particular field and cannot be duplicated by younger workers. By letting a potential employer become aware of these skills along with the willingness to help train younger workers in the nuances of a field, an older worker shows what a valuable asset he or she would be to a job.

3.Keep Up to Date

Technology changes quickly and an older worker may not have kept up with the latest advances. In fields where workers operate computers, honing computer skills and adding the ability to operate new programs lets an older worker show that he or she is a viable candidate for a job. In other fields, keeping up with the latest in advances lets those who have worked as pharmacists, accountants or in health care jobs maintain up-to-date skills. Highlight those skills to show you will be an asset to the company.

4.Be Flexible in Work Schedules

Older workers usually have the option to be more flexible in work hours, unlike younger employees. While younger persons are busy outside of work with children and the demands they entail, older workers can use the fact that their children are grown and gone to their advantage.

5.Communication Skills Are Important

The ability to solve problems and communicate effectively are some of the things employers look for in older workers. One way for an individual to demonstrate that skill is through a cover letter and resume. Almost half of employers say they want older employees who are good at spelling and grammar. This is a simple but effective way to express that skill. As far as problem solving and critical thinking skills, include problems that you solved and accomplishments you made in other jobs as part your resume.

6.Look Where Jobs Are Needed

Savvy, older individuals look first at what job markets are hiring the most workers and aim their skills where they are needed. Health care, finance, education, nonprofits and small- or medium-sized businesses are likely to employ older workers for their education, experience and know-how. Skills and know-how are important when looking for a new job, and so is the ability to do a job search. TheJobNetwork can help by doing the footwork for you, freeing your time for other things. Sign up for our job match alert and fill out an application, listing your skills and type of job you want. You can do a job search in two different ways. You can search yourself if you like. However, TheJobNetwork searches listings that match your description around the clock and sends those job opportunities to you as soon as they become available. That way, you don't miss any opportunities to get just the job you want.