An aging population, low birth rate and growing economy are all reasons the skilled workforce is declining. Not only for fiscal reasons but even in 2015, CPP and self-funded pension schemes, RRSPs and savings can fall short in providing a comfortable retirement. Many Canadians will be working well past the infamous age of 65. This means many of us will be looking for work well after the age of 45.
Looking for work when you are getting older every year gets harder and harder. What's needed is the ability to work smarter, not harder, with patience and diligence. The older you are the longer it takes to find a job. Gone are the days of finding work in weeks after a layoff or downsizing. So how do you step up your job search and career when you still have many good working years ahead of you?
In 2016, for the first time ever, 4 generations of individuals are in the labour force at the same time: Generation X, the over 50, Millennium agers, and Baby Boomers and we will need to respect and appreciate the differences and contributions of all age groups if we want to have a harmonious and economically strong work force. Experienced workers bring much to the work world. Don't get discouraged.
Even though it seems like employers will be overlooking you based on your attachment to a greying population, try to focus on the experience you have, not your age. Here are a few suggestions to help you overcome preconceived ageism and actually present yourself as a benefit to employers.
Though it doesn't feel like it some days, you do have much to contribute and value to bring to the work force.
- Older workers are more reliable, committed to their jobs and have a stronger work ethic than their younger counter parts
- Older workers don't have childcare issues. Their families are grown so they have more concentrated time to spend on work.
- Experienced workers have been labeled experienced for a reason. They have experimented with life, they're knowledgeable and have gained practical experience. They know what works and what doesn't - saving employers valuable time.
Another option for the experienced job seeker is to look at the situation in another way. Now is the time to try something new or that you've always wanted to try; to consult, to teach, to mentor, work part time or have your own small business. Go back to school or train for something totally different.
Look at the big picture. Rethink your relationship to money and lifestyle. Maybe phased in retirement is the way to go, maybe a move is in order, or ponder multi-income streams (several ways of generating an income such as taking in a border, owning a vending machine, teaching night school or consulting on the side).
Be a mentor and give back, or get a mentor and think of your situation as a new beginning, not the ending of your productivity.
For more suggestions, help and support check out the TCET locations for assistance from a career specialist. They can help you put together an action plan. You are never too old to get help. Don't go it alone.