The pandemic has deeply affected the job market, and it has taken its toll on older adults, too. With the upsurge of online jobs and work-from-home, it is not always easy to find a good job as a senior.
Even before the pandemic, work flexibility was becoming increasingly sought after and important, especially for those that find it difficult to physically commute. Remote work is steadily becoming more popular.
In this article, we will discuss some tips that you can use to make your remote job search a bit easier as an older adult. Even if the position you end up in isn’t remote, knowing how to effectively utilize the internet for professional purposes is no longer an optional skill, so it’s one you’ll likely still benefit from.
Difficulty finding jobs can lead to stress and uncertainty and, as a result, negatively impact one’s mental health. If you find that you need help with your mental health, consider visiting Mind Diagnostics where you can find resources that will give you the help you need.
Using the Internet as a Tool
The internet, as daunting as it can seem, is perhaps one of the most versatile and useful tools that exists in our society.
While there may be a learning curve to adjust to, you’ll likely find that, with some effort, you can easily use the internet both to find and complete jobs.
Find the right job sites.
Most job search sites allow you to filter your search for remote jobs only which can be an efficient way of looking for the right job. Sites like FlexJobs and Remote.com specialize in remote work.
You can also use your existing network of communications to find work through people.
Make sure to highlight your remote work experience.
Not every person has had remote work experience, but you can still include more casual instances if they’re relevant.
You can also highlight your experience with working with those in different time zones and colleagues that live in a different city or country. These experiences show that you are capable of working independently with various people regardless of location.
It is also important to note that employers tend to focus on the most recent work experience you have had, so you can consider removing some lines off your resume if they do not lend to a remote job opportunity, or they were from a very long time ago.
This can also “age-proof” your resume, if that is something you would like to do.
Display tech-savviness.
There is often an ageist attitude from employers who assume that older adults do not have the technological abilities to work from home or rely on technological means of communication.
Showcasing your skills in a separate technology section on your CV or Linkedin profile can be helpful for those in an older age bracket, as it is a clear indication that you are capable of handling these sorts of tasks.
You can list skills like proficiency with various operating systems, programming languages, and social media, among others. Additionally, as video conferences have become the norm in the current climate, mention your ability to use platforms like Skype and Zoom.
If you are not already very comfortable with platforms like Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, or Google Docs, it would be a good idea to spend some time learning these skills, too, as they can prove to be quite important.
Additionally, as all of your communication will likely be through a digital medium like email or messaging, make sure you use professional-looking email addresses that feature your first and last name.
Turn age into an asset.
Some people may prefer to be vague about their age, but you can also use age as an asset.
Interviews and conferences do eventually reveal your age to employers and colleagues, so it is important to be prepared.
Emphasizing your experience as an older adult and how it positively benefits your work can work in your favor. For instance, you may be more sought after to manage those with less experience than you.
So, while it is not always easy to find a job as an older adult, recognizing the advantages that you hold and emphasizing them to an employer can make your expertise and work experience that much more desirable. Your experience is valuable.
Conclusion
Finding a job has proven to be challenging for many in the current pandemic, and even prior to it.
Unfortunately, older adults can face issues like ageism, where they are underestimated for their technological proficiency and skills.
Taking control of how you present yourself in a professional environment by switching up your resume and showcasing yourself in a more tech-savvy light can make a big difference when it comes to finding a job online.