Health & Fitness - Older workers face hiring challenges

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Older workers face hiring challenges

WESTPORT, Conn. (UPI) -- Many U.S. adults age 55 and older plan to work at least until age 69, but they face challenges in getting a job, researchers say.

The study, "Buddy, Can You Spare a Job? The New Realities of the Job Market for Aging Baby Boomers," by MetLife Mature Market Institute and David DeLong & Associates, suggests older job-hunters must adapt to the changing workplace by adopting new attitudes, specific skills and a fresh set of expectations.

The study lists seven common mistakes older Americans make when they are looking for a job:

-- "I'll just do what I was doing before."

-- "My experience speaks for itself."

-- "I don't have time for this touchy-feely stuff about what work means to me."

-- "I know! I'll become a consultant...!"

-- "Of course I'm good with computers."

-- "I'll just use a recruiter for some career coaching."

-- "I've always been successful, so why should things be different now?"

The study suggests older job-seekers should acknowledge the new realities of the job market, articulate what specific value they can bring to an organization, cultivate a network of contacts, update computer technology skills and manage ambivalence -- many need the money but don't really want to stay working.

Older job-seekers who don't recognize that they're viewed differently in the job market are in for a rude awakening, study author David DeLong says.

Copyright 2009 by United Press International

This news arrived on: 10/15/2009

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Posted Comments:

10-20-2009 15:37

Furlane wrote:

Older Workers

On 2nd thought, what some of the applicants have to say doesn't help them to find work. Everyone who looks for work needs to learn how to present themselves, their experience and their education in the best possible light.

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10-20-2009 15:28

Furlane wrote:

Older Workers

I was under 55 when I lost my job because I couldn't take care of a homebound patient AND
take care of a needy, demanding friend. Now that I am over 55, I decided to work online instead of hitting the streets to look for work, especially
after reading this article!

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10-17-2009 00:41

Lolly wrote:

Older workers

you have that right I have applied and applied, But no is calling won't even give you a chance. and I don't say any of those comments.

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