Job loss is difficult at any age, but when you’re 40 and older there are additional challenges. Over 40 workers are usually more experienced having been in the workforce for many years.
They may be looking to change to careers that balance lifestyle, profession, and relationships.
Their job search plans may target industries and job opportunities that allow them to scale down and eliminate draining, unproductive commitments and tasks in order to achieve more in less time.
Building from their experience base and professional contacts, over 40 job seekers tend to redirect their efforts and focus on helping others in career transition discover new alternatives.
Additionally, they desire to deepen their insight and are willing to learn and acquire the necessary skills to be successful in any new career.
If you are over 40 and searching for a job, here are a few tips you can use to increase success:
- Determine what job search success looks like and develop measurable success criteria.
- Research information and perform due-diligence on new career focus. Create new career structure.
- Develop a career portfolio that includes samples of your work, resume, written references, and other related information.
- Plan for contingencies, obstacles and unanticipated challenges. Life has a way of intruding on any plan; so keep this in mind when conducting a job search plan.
- Set new personal time management goals. The way you are used to spending your day will have to be revised to accommodate job search activities and manage stress. Integrate these activities into your daily life with realistic expectations that mirror the balance you wish to achieve.
