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Strategically Speaking: Looking for work after 50? Tips on how to avoid the pitfalls

 
Published June 18, 2015

Over 50 and looking for work? You probably haven't networked or composed a cover letter and a resume in some time. Things have changed since you last went through a job search. Here are some tips to help you.

Preparation

A job after 50 often means the last job. Take some time to think about what you want to do with the rest of your life. What level of salary must you make? Do you want to do the type of work you've done in the past, or would you like to try something new? Do you need more training or a degree to obtain your goal? Are there opportunities for you where you live, or would you have to move?

Maybe you aren't interested in working. Volunteering and mentoring are great options, and they are much needed. Look up volunteering opportunities online through your chamber of commerce or city or county websites.

Appearance

Are you well-groomed (hair, teeth, nails, etc.) and dressed appropriately for an interview? Perhaps a new hair style, an updated wardrobe and a trip to the dentist or manicurist will help you look and feel fresher and more energetic.

Online presence

• Do you have a professional online presence? You might have a personal Facebook page or a Twitter or Instagram account, but are you on LinkedIn or listed through professional organizations in your field?

Also, take a second look at all of your online communication and make sure there is nothing offensive or controversial. Hiring managers check who you are online.

• Set up a LinkedIn profile if you don't already have one. This is the main, professional connector for businesspeople, recruiters and hiring managers. It gives you credibility and is a free and easy way to reach potential employers.

Your profile is a mini resume, complete with your professional picture (avoid the cutesy and glamor shots), title, a summary of your skills, short work history, education, affiliations, honors and more.

• Is your email account up to date? Create a professional email address including something that identifies your job field. For example: Techwriter15@___.

Networking

• Get out there. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for work and what you would like to do.

• Attend business and professional organization meetings. Most allow guests, and you can network with people in the field and make new contacts.

• Contact former employers and colleagues from jobs you held years ago.

Cover letter and resume

• Many organizations require you to apply online. Your cover letter should be short, and it should specifically tell how your skills and experience match the job description listed.

• Resumes should not be more than a page and a half. Hiring managers give them just a few seconds. Your resume should only list your last few years' experience (don't date yourself) and should "sell" you through stories about how you helped your employers add to the bottom line, get more customers or improve productivity.

Marie R. Stempinski is president and founder of Strategic Communication in St. Petersburg. She specializes in public relations, marketing, business development and provides career counseling for people over 50 looking for "encore" careers and lives. She can be reached at sstratcomm@cs.com or through her website, mariestratcomm.com.