Retirement

Here are tips to help seniors make the most out of the job hunting experience.

Seniors Looking for Work Should Tackle Age Bias Head-On

Going on a job interview can be stressful, but for seniors concerned about age bias, job interviews can be even more stressful.

A recent article from MarketWatch.com suggests that the best way for seniors to combat age bias is to confront it. For example, the assumption is that seniors are not as technologically adept as younger workers. Seniors can prepare for a job interview by getting ready to talk about the technical tools they know how to use.

Exploit Your Experience

Regardless of the type of job you are applying for, emphasize your experience with examples of problem solving skills that can be helpful in any office.

Networking Your Way to a New Job

Recommendations from someone in an office or field are always the best way to get an interview, and perhaps a job offer. Making connections through social networking sites online can also help, along with participating in networking events both in-person and online.

More Tips for Senior Job Hunters

Here are several tips that can help seniors throughout a job search:

  • Make sure your cover letter says you are adaptable and can easily accept new challenges
  • Mention in the interview that you intend to continue working for another ten years or more
  • Develop a skills-based resume rather than a chronological resume
  • Clarify your goals

Prepare for a Potentially Lengthy Job Search

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job-seekers over the age of 55 typically need to look for work longer than younger workers--often six months or more. This may cause older job seekers to rely on savings and alternative income sources during employment searches.

In addition to relying on savings, job-seekers over age 62, who are home owners, can compare quotes from lenders and gather information on the potential cash-flow benefits of a reverse mortgage.Qualifying for a reverse mortgage depends on the equity in your home and your age, rather than a credit report or income. A reverse mortgage can be taken as a lump-sum distribution, a monthly income stream, or as a line of credit for future financial needs.

Michele Lerner
Michele Lerner is a freelance writer with twenty years of experience writing articles and web content for newspapers and magazines on topics related to real estate, personal finance and business. Her clients include The Washington Times, Bankrate.com, Urban Land Magazine, NAREIT's Real Estate Portfolio and numerous Realtor association publications. Michele's first book, "HOMEBUYING: Tough Times, First Time, Any Time" is available now at Amazon.com. Michele has a B.A. and an M.A. in International Affairs from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

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