MANY OLDER WORKERS ARE OPTING TO STAY IN THE JOB MARKETWritten by Garth Jay
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For those that opt to change positions, it can be very challenging to contend in what is still a very competitive work environment. When there are so many candidates vying for positions, we tell our older clients to really focus on specific experience and skill sets that can give them an edge during interviews. If they can showcase these skills at a time when a company is looking for a certain position, age becomes less important—in fact, hiring managers may view experience as far more favorable. Of course part of trick is being able to do your research and identify companies that have these specific business needs so you can come in and fill void. It is imperative to understand what skills and experience you have that are readily marketable and what aspects of your experience differentiates you from other candidates, particularly ones with less experience. In this spirit, here are four tips for older workers in job market: Conduct extensive market research: Identify organizations that will view your experience and skills as relevant to their business equation. Keep your professional skills current: One of myths about older workers is that they are not as technologically savvy as younger generations. However, reality is that people over 50 are becoming fastest growing group of Internet users and those who change careers in their 40s and 50s are taking classes to keep their computer skills up-to-date. Network, network, network. Positions at upper levels are not as likely to be advertised, so networking is particularly important for older professional in job market. Seek out professional organizations, former colleagues and employees at companies you are interested in. Volunteering in your community or joining a board of a local organization can provide opportunity to meet your peers and showcase your skills and abilities. Focus on your accomplishments, not your age. You can turn around perceived hurdles regarding your age by demonstrating your vitality, experience and work ethic. Age is relative—you may be in better physical and emotional shape than younger workers, so focus on your strengths. Companies are very focused on retaining and adding to their top talent today. Position yourself as someone who can get job done and who can bring a great deal to table with your unique qualifications.
Garth Jay is the senior vice president and general manager of leading career services company Lee Hecht Harrison's Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio offices.
| | The Employee Publication: The Great CommunicatorWritten by Ruth Drizen-Dohs
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Recognize employee contributions and achievements: This will be much appreciated whether it is an individual or an entire department being congratulated. Plus, this sort of recognition has been shown to be valued as much as monetary recompense. Cover all important company events: From trade shows and picnics to community awards and holiday parties, it’s a great way to chronicle things organization has done together and accomplished as a team. Be consistent. If your publication comes out when it is scheduled to and adheres to a familiar tone and design that reflects your company’s culture, your employees will embrace it and look forward to receiving each issue. A good publication can really make a difference in your company. Not only can it effectively communicate important information, but it can positively affect your company’s morale, productivity, training and retention efforts.Established in 1994, DDCC is a full-service communications and publishing firm that provides editorial services, public relations, marketing, graphic design, art direction and digital pre-press and printing. Located in Chatsworth, California, DDCC has a full staff of editors, writers, designers, and public relations professionals. For more information, please visit www.drizen-dohs.com or call (818) 772-9555.
Ruth Drizen-Dohs is the president and CEO of Drizen-Dohs Corporate Communications (DDCC).
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