Posted under Branding, Career Management, Job Search, Resumes, Social Networking, Women on October 8th, 2008
Economic uncertainties are plundering job security for most folks, but those 50+ have more-than-average reason to lie awake at night wondering whether a pink slip awaits them in the morning. Their fear has some merit: employers may consider them overqualified and therefore a necessary cost-cutting target; and they are likely to have difficulty landing a new job commensurate with their skill level and salary expectations.
But, as always, being proactive in the face of fear – even if the situation itself doesn’t change – both provides more hours of sleep at night and is likely to produce positive results and/or minimize the impact of bad news.
Here are some suggestions:
- Transitions, present or future, call for clarity about resources and priorities. Do some inventorying: of your financial situation; of the strengths and abilities that make you you; and about what you want the rest of your life to include.
- Being insecure may make isolation seem more attractive than usual. It’s important not to give in to it, though it’s also a good idea to identify your support circle and be discerning about whom you spend time with. Even family or close friends may find your situation threatening and make a tactless remark that sets you back.
- Be sure you have been faithful to the #1 Career Transition Principle: have an updated and stellar resume. Consider it an opportunity to showcase your wealth of career experience. Be prepared to modify it to address the specific job description you’re pursuing.
- Keep a file of performance reviews, special awards or commendations, articles you’ve written, notes from appreciative clients.
- Know your Value Signature – your unique expertise, strengths, core purpose, and perspective – that sets you above the competition in the eyes of a prospective employer. As Dan Schawbel says,”It’s what you do that makes you who your are and how you project that to others that makes you memorable.”
- Make your Value Signature clearly known at work and among your network. This includes making yourself available for assignments that may not strictly fall within your responsibilities; carefully (and tactfully) showcasing your accomplishments so that management knows your value; increasing your activity in meetings, conferences, professional associations, and (tactfully) sharing your ideas and opinions. Follow up with your boss, mentor, and other higher-ups so that they are aware of your accomplishments on an on-going basis.
Here’s a final note, an empowering perspective on being 50+ and facing change, from Sam Greengard, author of Finding the Work You Love. The workplace is constantly changing. By remaining flexible and relevant during transition, you combine adaptability with the perspective of a workforce veteran. The values and social consciousness accrued over your years enriches the mix for all.
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