Baby Boomers and Your Next Job

  Jim, who'd spent 25 years in the financial industry prior to being downsized,  attended a job fair specializing in the Hospitality & Tourism industry with about 35 companies represented.  "It was a real disappointment.  I was dressed in my business suit for $8 to $12-an-hour jobs.  There's got to be a better way than this!"  
  Boomers like Jim who find themselves seeking new careers, either part-time or full-time, have encountered a job world in transition.  Unprecedented numbers of boomers are retiring creating a labor market soon to experience massive shortages (10 million jobs unfilled by 2010) with fewer younger workers available to fill those jobs.  In the next 10 years the deficit gap between jobs and workers will be alarmingly wide.  Until then, how do workers like Jim deal with the inability to find jobs that meet their expectations.   Experts say that industries requiring unique skill sets and years of training are already facing shortfalls such as science, aerospace engineering, technology, and specialized machining companies.  Other industries where younger workers have shown little interest and large demand exist include the federal government, the skilled trades (plumbers, auto mechanics), and public utilities companies.   
 
So, what steps can you take to enhance your next career move or opportunity ... 

1.  Get clear about your strengths.  Make sure you can communicate with energy what you do well and why you love doing it.  If you can't describe your talents to others in a compelling, concise manner to yourself or others, your search will prove fruitless.  Many people don't realize their skills will transfer easily; for instance, a 50-something hospital nurse client of mine became a medical equipment sales rep. 
 
2.  Consider getting training in a needed skill.  When you consider your work life may continue for another 25-30 years, it's certainly not too late to become a tour guide or high school teacher.  It's  not always necessary to complete another degree to change fields.  There are lots of certificate training programs which can be completed in months which allow for career shifts.     

3.  Think "diversify."   Prepare for alternative jobs before you leave the work force. Ask yourself if there a possible new assignment in another department you can take on to enhance your skill sets prior to leaving your employer.   Consider volunteer assignments either through your work or on your own.  These are often great opportunities to not only boost your skill set but also connect and network with others. 
 
4.  Think outside of the box.  If you've always thought of self-employment, this may be the best time.  After all, your sage experience and wisdom can now become a valuable commodity as a consultant or contract worker.   By the way, small businesses are inclined to hire older workers (20% of workers in small businesses stay past 65).   
With these  changes taking place, there is an abundance of options if you're prepared!  Finding a new career midlife means creating a new identity for yourself based on matching your motivation, values and skills to the realities of the outside world.   You're only as limited as you believe you are!

Success Story

Career Action Plan