More older adults are either returning to the workforce or seeking employment for the first time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the labor force among adults aged 75 years and older is projected to surge by 96.5% over the next decade.
There are many reasons: financial strains brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising prices caused by inflation. Extending their working years can give older adults an extra cushion in their budget and added peace of mind. Some older adults simply want to work as they enjoy the mental, physical, and social benefits working brings.
Seniors Enjoying Life
Older Americans are living longer, healthier, and active lives. More employers are realizing that age is an asset, not a liability. Mature generations bring industry insights and experience to the workplace. They’re also dependable and hard-working, with a solid work ethic that is in short supply these days. Below are some practical tips to help you succeed.
1. Browse for advertised job openings. Seniors looking for employment often start with advertised job openings. You can find hundreds of job openings posted on company websites, online job boards and career portals, and social media sites like Facebook. You’ll also find positions listed in trade journals and your local newspapers. Some places, such as grocery stores and libraries, even advertise for workers by posting a flyer in their window. One drawback is that other people are competing for the same job.
Here are several tips for job hunting: 1) Focus your efforts on just one or two specific sources, such as a job site for retired professionals or your local newspaper; 2) Respond to new job openings right away. Don’t waste your time on old listings; & 3) Never give out your personal or financial information when responding to job listings.
2. Tap your personal network. Often, businesses prefer to hire through word of mouth. That’s why a great source of job leads is people you know from friends and family members to neighbors and former co-workers. Tell people you’re actively looking for a job and ask if they know of any local businesses looking to hire. Don’t be afraid to ask for a referral if a job seems like a good fit.
3. Call your local staffing agencies. Employers looking to bring on people immediately will often work with a staffing agency to fill a vacancy as quickly as possible. While some positions will be temporary, some employers are hoping to fill open positions permanently.
4. Visit your local county workforce centers. They have relationships with many of the major employers in the region they serve.
5. Try cold calling. Try reaching out directly to hiring managers by phone to see if there are any currently open positions, or if there will be in the near future. They could point you to other opportunities within the organization.
6. Attend a job fair. Larger organizations often hold job fairs to give hiring managers the chance to talk directly with potential employees. An in-person job fair gives you the chance to speak face to face with people in charge of doing the hiring at their company. Job fairs also allow you to hand your resume directly to a person.
7. Apply for the Senior Community Service Employment Program. This helps older adults get training skills and job placement to re-enter the workforce. You must be at least 55 years of age and have low income to qualify for the program. After training, the program will help you find a permanent position. Article courtesy of National Council on Aging.