Article by Ceri Wheeldon
The employment market is competitive for jobseekers at any age, but it is important to remember that when taking into account the increase in the state retirement age, jobseekers in their 50s have many productive years to offer an employer.
1. It is essential that you recognise the skills you possess which are marketable in today’s market, before putting together and submitting your CV to potential employers or job boards. Look at the vacancies existing in the market and take an objective view of skills gained in previous employment. Which of your skills best match those in demand? These are the skills to emphasis in your CV together with examples where they have been effectively deployed.
2. How are those in demand skills most often described in job adverts? What words are used? Make sure you mirror the terminology in your own CV.
3. Job titles: Do your previous job titles have any meaning outside of your previous organisation? Use job titles in your CV which best describe your role, and which are meaningful to potential employers.
4. Remember that many employers search CVs for keywords in a similar way to conducting a search for information on google. You need to ensure that the key words describing your skills and abilities are prominent in your CV.
Treat your jobsearch as a job
5. Plan your jobsearch methodically. Treat your jobsearch as a job in its own right.
6. Be realistic about your salary expectations and corresponding benefits. If you had accumulated additional holidays for long term service in a previous role, these are unlikely to be matched in a new position
7. Practice job interviews.
8. Keep fit!
9. Make sure you are up to date with trends in the industry of any company you are interviewing with so you can appear informed and credible at interview.
10. Network – both online via sites such as Linkedin , Facebook and Twitter and offline. Attend networking events – many are free or ask for a minimal charge to attend. Be supportive of others – team up with a jobsearch ‘buddy’ to run ideas by- or work with a jobsearch coach.
11. Prepare thoroughly for any interviews by researching all aspects ahead of time.
12. Be confident in your abilities and ensure that your confidence (but not arrogance!) shows.
Ceri Wheeldon
Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is also a headhunter with 20+ years experience working on international assignments and offers a jobsearch coaching service to jobseekers
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