Job Searching after Fifty

In this economy, many people are dealing with the unplanned and foreseen: lay-offs, switching careers, and possibly even coming out of retirement. These issues can affect everyone, but can be especially frustrating for individuals who have worked for the same industry for 20 - 30 years, and were hoping to finish off their careers with their former company. If you're fifty or older, and you’re now starting a job search, read on to learn how to increase your chances of finding a good job.

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Resume Writing

When writing your resume, it's important that you avoid doing certain things that will make you a target for age discrimination. (While there are laws against that, it is harder to prove that an employer over looked you for this reason alone, even if it's the truth.)

Omit the Years

For starters, leave out the years that you attended/graduated high school or college. (If you have one or more college degrees, omit your high school entirely. It's no longer relevant at this point in your life.) Putting down the years may ''red flag'' your resume from the get-go.

Keep it Short!

Your resume should be one page. While you may have many years of work experience, only put the experience that is relevant to the job you are applying for. If possible, limit it to the last ten years. The exception to this rule is that if you've been with a company for 10 + years, be sure to include that on your resume. It shows that your loyalty for a company.

Sharpen Your Skills

If you've been out of work for a while, it may be necessary to sharpen some of your old job skills, or to even learn new ones. Take advantage of any opportunities that can help you. Maybe your local community college offers classes on how to use computer programs like Excel. Be sure to list new and old skills that are applicable on your resume.

Market Yourself

During the interview, make your age work for you and not against you. Highlight the experience you have and your dedication to specific work areas. Above all else, if you show confidence in your abilities, the employer will see it.


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