If you're over the age of fifty and find yourself looking for work, chances are good that you already know the job-search basics--how to update your resume, how to dress for an interview, and how to present yourself and your experience effectively. But a successful employment search can be so much more for a highly skilled, experienced professional. Here are some advanced Baby Boomer job-search tips that'll help you take control.
1. Decide what you (really) want.
If you've received a severance package, use the time it affords to truly consider what you want to do next. Don't just blindly go after the same type of job you just left unless it still holds excitement for you. Do your research, take assessments on career-management sites or with your outplacement service, and identify what your ideal employment opportunity would be. Even if you feel you need to take a new position right away, go into the job search with a goal of finding a position that you'll love--not one that will simply allow you to survive.
2. Embrace networking--including social networking.
Jobs in today's economy are often found through networks--like the networks that you've probably spent the better part of 20 years creating. Beyond your personal contacts, however, take advantage of online networking tools like LinkedIn and even Twitter. According to the 2008/2009 Accenture US Consumer Technology Survey, Boomers increased their uptake of popular consumer technology applications at an average of 50 percent in 2008, nearly 20 times faster than Generation Y. Further, a late-2009 Deloitte & Touche study indicated that 46 percent of boomers maintained a social networking site in 2009-compared to just 31 percent in 2008. And don't be shy about sharing your networking experience during your interview. People who connect well--whether through interpersonal or online networking--are desirable in nearly any position.
3. Be the solution to the "brain drain."
As nearly 78 million Baby Boomers begin to consider retirement, an unprecedented "brain drain" will strike many American business segments, particularly sectors with a higher concentrations of older employees, such as retail, utilities, manufacturing, and healthcare. If you're actively seeking a career position--not just a job to tide you over for the next few years--you could provide a dramatic benefit to your new employer. By being willing to share your experience, expertise, and understanding of your industry, you're not just a new hire--you're an instant mentor to their entire employee base.
4. Explore nontraditional options.
As you consider where you're going, don't define yourself by where you've been. According to a recent study by the Bridgespan Group, nonprofit organizations will need to attract and develop some 640,000 new senior managers over the next decade--the equivalent of 2.4 times the number currently employed. These are not volunteer positions; they're well-paid critical roles. Explore nontraditional job sectors online or through a dedicated career-management site to make sure you're exploring all of your options.
Mike O'Brien is an innovative entrepreneur dedicated to helping others create breakthrough success, and is the founder and CEO of Climber.com, one of the nation's leading online career-management sites. For more information about how to find your perfect career, visit www.Climber.com, or connect with Mike on LinkedIn.
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