When you’re 50+, finding work can be a daunting, intimidating and
downright discouraging. Did you know about 40% of our clientele falls within
this demographic? Many 50+ job seekers are having difficulty making traction at
the paygrade and managerial level of their last few positions. Ultimately, they
find themselves applying for positions beneath that level. They’re OK with it,
but employers seem skeptical.
In fact, this scenario is so common that Hollywood uses it again and
again. See: The Internship (2013) or The Intern (2015). Both are billed as
comedies, but when you’re living it, it’s tough.
From an employer’s perspective, a job candidate making downward movement in pay grade and experience-level may be more apt to harbor bitterness and
resentment. A less experienced candidate making upward movement presents less
risk. So, how do you combat this?
We recommend clients face this challenge
head-on. Here are our tips:
·
Put your cards on the table. If you’re willing to accept a
position within a lower pay scale, share that.
·
Be positive. Avoid positioning yourself as a
victim of circumstance, forced to look for lesser position. Instead, frame the
transition as a desire to get back to basics and focus on doing the work you
enjoy.
·
Sell yourself. Explain what you think you can
bring to the position and exactly who it’s a fit. Be cautious to stay within
the parameters of the job description though.
·
Advocate for the organization. Aligning yourself with the vision or mission
of an employer allows Hiring Managers to see beyond your over qualification. Choose
roles within organizations you feel passionately about, or find something about
the company that you can align with 150%
Are you a 50 or older and looking for a job? We’d love to hear your story…
