Questions and Answers for Older Workers After a Job Loss

As an older, experienced worker, you are not immune to job loss during a recession. But you may have unique concerns about navigating the job market.

Question: I'm worried that potential employers will pass me up because they'll think I'm overqualified. Should I "dumb down" my resume — exclude certain experiences or achievements — so employers give me a second look?

Answer: You shouldn't portray yourself as less qualified than you are. The key is to show prospective employers how your extra experience can translate into real value for them. You may have unique perspectives or insights that a less experienced candidate does not. Read job ads carefully, research employers thoroughly, tailor your resume appropriately, and get ready to explain how your background is an asset, rather than a liability.

Question: As an older job hunter, how should I organize my resume?

Answer: Older workers may want to consider using a functional resume (which highlights specialized skills and experiences) rather than a chronological resume (which details past experience by date). Make sure your resume highlights the skills and experiences that are relevant to your current career objectives, and omits the irrelevant details. You need not list every job you've ever had.

Question: Can I compete in today's labor market if I don't have good computer skills?

Answer: It's true that most office jobs require computer skills. However, there are still plenty of jobs that require only limited computer skills. You can use the tools and technology report to find occupations that don't require you to use a computer. You may also want to get comfortable with computers by taking a class or getting short-term training. Informal introductory computer classes are often offered through public libraries, school districts, and community centers. Community technology centers have been organized in some Minnesota communities specifically to provide computer training and access to the public.

If your computer skills aren't up to date, make sure your resume doesn't advertise this. If you do include computer experience on your resume, use current terminology to describe your skills.

If you feel you are weak in one area, highlight your strengths in another. Older workers are often perceived to have excellent soft skills such as customer service and communication skills. These are extremely important at any job. If you feel you have strength in this area, make sure to highlight it on your resume or job application.

Question: I'm not web savvy. Do I have to use the internet to find a job?

Answer: If you are serious about finding a job, you should explore all your options, including online options. More employers are posting job openings on the web, so you may miss out on opportunities if you ignore online job banks or social networking sites. If you are not sure how to use this technology, visit a Minnesota Work Force Center to get one-on-one help.

Question: I've been laid off after many years in one field. Where do I start?

Answer: A good way to begin any job search is to take a step back and assess your skills using the ISEEK Skills Assessment. If you've been working at the same job for many years, you may be unsure how to do this. Start by writing about 3-5 work experiences you've had that you enjoyed or were good at. Then try to identify the similarities across all those experiences. This can be a good way to identify 3 or 4 of your best skills. Once you've done that, try taking the Skills Profiler to rate your skills and view occupations that are a good match for you. Or check out O*NET's free assessment tools.

Question: How do I deal with age discrimination on the job market?

Answer: Even though age discrimination is prohibited by the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), many older workers still perceive that they are passed up for jobs, promotions, or pay raises because of their age. If you believe you are the victim of age discrimination, you can contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

It would be wise to anticipate the stereotypes about older workers. Get prepared to respond to them during your job hunt. For example, some employers perceive that older workers will leave the job sooner for retirement. You may want to find a way to let prospective employers that you are interested in working for a long time. Some employers think older workers cannot adapt to new workplace cultures or rules. Make it clear that you are comfortable with change and can follow protocol.

Question: Now that I'm getting older, I'm considering a career with more meaning. What's the best way to get started?

Answer: The good news is that most healthcare, education and social services jobs cannot be outsourced. While no job is completely recession-proof, these are considered among the safest jobs because they are less subject to economic shock. Green Careers are also likely to be in higher demand in coming years.

Career counselors recommend taking an experimental approach to changing careers. You'll be more likely to be successful if you test the waters before diving in to a new career. Volunteer or take a part-time job to see how you like a new field.

Question: I've been laid off. How can I maintain health coverage?

Health coverage is important for everyone, but is of special concern for older workers who may have health concerns or need specialized care. Medicare is available to people aged or older and to some disabled people younger than age 65. Medicare's eligibility tool can tell you whether you qualify. Medicaid also provides health coverage for low income individuals. Finally, COBRA allows laid off workers and their families to continue their health coverage by paying the premium themselves.

Minnesota seniors can get help with all of these issues from the following:

• Senior Linkage Line (1-800-333-2433) is a free telephone information and assistance service, which makes it easy for older adults and their families to find community services. With a single call, people can find particular services near them or get help evaluating their situation to determine what kind of service might be helpful.
• Minnesota Area Agencies on Aging offer many services to seniors in seven regional centers across the state.
• MinnesotaHelp.info is an online directory of human services, information and referral, financial assistance, and other forms of help. It is especially rich in resource information for seniors and their caregivers; people with disabilities and their caregivers; parents and families; and low income people.

Question: How do I prepare for the emotional aspects of a layoff or career change?

Answer: Change is challenging for almost everyone, but can be especially hard if you've had the same job and routine for years. If a layoff or career change is coming, prepare yourself emotionally by introducing small changes in your daily routine. Take a different route to work. Eat a different breakfast. Take up a hobby that forces you to learn something new. Any small change that puts you out of your comfort zone can help to prepare you in small ways for bigger changes that may be coming.