Who is Going to Find a Job for You?

In the final analysis we think you know the answer

The emotional and psychological trauma of having to find a job over the age 50 – by chance, not by choice – can be devastating. Understandably so.

Not having done a job search for years, if not decades, you may not know where to turn first. Secretly, deep down inside, you’re really hoping that someone just walks up to you and offers you a job. As the Beach Boys once said, “Wouldn’t it be nice?”

And the hits just keep on comin’

Unfortunately the Beach Boys are no longer together, and you’re still out of work. Brian Wilson has passsed so who will find a job for you? The answer to that basic question is easy. Like it or not, the answer is YOU!

Despite the jobs boards, despite the well-meaning agencies, despite the efforts of recruiters, when all is said and done, you’re the only one who is going to get you a job.

Experts or well intentioned friends may help you with your resume, your cover letter(s), your LinkedIn profile, etc. Even resources such as the Nifty50s can provide you with advice, counsel and encouragement. There is an abundance of help, but the ultimate burden still falls on you.

Outside sources may find openings for you to apply. They may even go so far as to schedule interviews for you. But you’re still the one who has to sell yourself to that hiring manager – and do so with sufficient conviction that they’re convinced that you’re the best possible person for the job.

This is not to say that it can’t be done, because it can. It can and it does. It happens virtually everyday.

Several sources claim that age 70 and above is the fastest growing segment of the workforce. There are numerous reports of individuals who have retired and, for a variety of reasons, have decided to go back to work. If they can do it, why can’t you?

The additional good news is that – everyday – there are more and more employers who beginning to see the value and the benefits that employees over 50 can bring to the table. Do all employers get the message? No. And for the foreseeable future there will always be some hold outs – regardless of what the age discrimination laws say.

So, put aside the BLS data, the federal laws and the employers who just don’t get it and find yourself a job. It’s entirely up to you.

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