Career Moves For Older Workers
Posted in Getting Ahead
Today's job market is ever changing. Not only have the types of jobs offered changed, but so have the people who make up the current workforce. Today, many older people choose to continue working instead of retiring.
But how to succeed in this, you must must keep abreast in today's fast paced atmosphere. Here are somethings that you can do to help you:
Be trendy
Older workers must follow job marke themselves "What jobs are in demand today?". Above all, they should keep up with today's technology, especially computer technology.
Get wired
In today's workplace, knowing your computer is a must. Technology is developing at a rapid pace and more and more programs are being developed to make our work easier. In today's workplace, a basic computer knowledge in computer is important. Basic computer knowledge includes:
Navigating the Internet
E-mail and its applications
Word processing
PowerPoint
Excel spreadsheets
Go back to school
To fill in the missing pieces, go back to school. If you lack in any area of demand you, like for example computer skill, it's never too late to learn more. Your local community college (library or association) usually offers instructional or "crash" courses in a number of areas. "Lifelong learning is an important aspect of professional growth.
Assessing your skills and determining whether there are any gaps will help identify potential areas for additional education," says Deborah Russell, director of the issues agenda for economic security for AARP, a non-profit organization for people age 50 and over.
Opportunity knocks
Everywhere, especially in the workplace, there are always opportunities for you to learn something new. For example, you can cover for a colleague at work. This provides an opportunity for you to learn more about what he/she does and as a result you become well-rounded and thus, an asset to you employer. That, coupled with lessons, will surely help you in your career.
Update your résumé
The job market keeps on evolving. So should your job hunting materials. You need to know the atest résumé trends. Employers these days focus more on capabilities rather than on, say, the number of years you worked for so and so company. Make your CV skill-driven and results-oriented. Highlight your management skills and sales accomplishments.
Bond
Don't think you're the only one in this situation. There are several others who share your plight. And on top of that, there are organizations who offer support groups for older workers. Here, they discuss obstacles they've faced and learn new ways to overcome them.
