Job Search Success Over 50: Networking, Skill-Building, and Staying Competitive
- amy Leighton
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
Even though it’s illegal to discriminate for a job position based on age, people still experience being turned down based on how old they are. Don’t lose hope, because it is possible to be hired for a good position even if you’re over 50. If you can show you are an expert and up on technology in your subject matter, your age becomes less of an issue and more of an asset. Here are some other tips to remain hireable past 50.
Build your skills. If you look at a job description and are missing some of the software or technical experience, your first impulse may be to pass the job by. However, a better option is to notice what skills are consistently being asked of candidates and work on getting those yourself through more training. Today’s culture makes that easier through YouTube tutorials and online courses. Adding these certifications to your resumes draws attention away from your perceived age and shows you can hit the ground running and that you have the willingness to learn new things.
Network. Many people need to network to land a job that’s right for them, and this is even truer for seekers over 50. In fact, experts say a large majority of those over 50 find their jobs through networking and not through an actual job posting. One of the best ways to prepare for networking is to prepare a 30-second elevator pitch. Think about the type of job you want and what you have to offer, and be ready to tell anyone relevant you run into about what you’re looking for. When you’re older, you’ve met a lot of people in your life, so think about anyone with a lot of contacts or who is in your industry and reach out to them. Explain why you’re job seeking and ask if they know anyone you can reach out to.
Stay competitive. On top of learning all the tools and software applicable to your field, you’ll also want to master project management, productivity, and communication tools. This would be platforms like Trello, Toggl, and Slack. Also know how to use video chats like Google Meet and Zoom because these will many times be used in the interview process. When you’re told an interview will be done through video, download the app they use ahead of time and go over using it with a friend. Practice sharing your screen and adjusting your background to demonstrate you know how to use their technology.
The perfect balance of using your place in life as someone over 50 is to market your level of expertise while showing you’re willing to learn new skills. Combining these two qualities is key. It’s best to embrace where you are in life rather than try to deny it. Ultimately, be able to articulate why your unique set of traits you can only gain at your age makes you the best hire for the company.
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