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Finding a Job After Age 50

Finding yourself out of a job at 50 years old can be scary.  Figuring out what steps to take first is not always easy.  Before the internet, the best option to find a job was through printed classified ads. The internet has caused an explosion of information for jobseekers.  We'll help you navigate through all of this information to create a job search plan that will help you to hit the ground running and find that new job.

AARP Foundation combined advice from job search experts, employers and successful 50+ jobseekers to create, 7 Smart Strategies for 50+ Jobseekers, a guide filled with valuable information about the job search process.  This popular guide offers a strategic approach to understanding how employers look for job candidates.  We’ve taken excerpts from the proven to be effective strategies from 7 Smart Strategies for 50+ Jobseekers, and we’re sharing them with you. We’ll show you how to make a job search plan, how to create the tools that will increase your visibility and also connect with people and organizations that can help you gain skills and find a job.

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Job Search Strategies

Target Your Job Search

  • Target local open positions
  • Target employers
  • Target industries
  • Target part-time jobs

 

 

Get New Experience & Skills

  • Part-time work 
  • Entry-level work
  • Contract or temporary work
  • Volunteer to gain new skills
  • Take classes to gain new skills

Create a Personal Marketing Plan

  • 30-second commercial
  • Cover letter
  • Resume that shows your accomplishments
  • Thank You note
  • Use your online presence to market to employers

Conquer the Job Application and Interview Process

  • Your personal email
  • Applying for jobs online
  • Applying for jobs in person
  • Practice for your interview
  • Answering interview questions at 50+

Meet People Who Know People
 

  • Create a contact list
  • Join a job club
  • Attend workshops & conferences
  • Create or update a LinkedIn page
  • Update your Facebook page

Connect with Organizations that Help Employers Find Talent

  • American Job Centers (Workforce Development Boards)
  • Staffing Agencies
  • Senior Community Service Employment Programs
  • Non-profit Workforce Organizations (Goodwill, Jewish Vocational Services, FedCap)

Focus on Yourself

  • Use a job search schedule
  • Create a budget
  • Check out income supports 
  • Stay in your home by avoiding foreclosure
  • Find out what your state has to offer
  • Get help with your taxes 

Stay Strong

  • Create a support system
  • Start a gratitude journal
  • Take care of your health
  • Connect with others
  • Seek mental health support

Resources

Contact Us

BACK TO WORK 50+ Community Locations

AARP Foundation is developing partnerships with national and local organizations to expand the reach of the BACK TO WORK 50+ initiative.