The 7 Biggest Mistakes Boomers Make in Their Job Search

These are from a  2009 MetLife Study titled New Realities of the Job Market for Aging Baby Boomers:

1. Continuing to do what you were doing before: This refers to Boomers who continue on their previous career path, even when it’s a dead-end; instead, research and take advantage of fields/industries that are growing, therefore doing all the hiring, and highlight how you have those needed skills.
2. Believing that your experience speaks for itself:  Older job seekers cannot assume that hiring managers – particularly younger ones - will automatically recognize their value and match it with today’s jobs.  Instead, be able to explain how you are going to make the company successful
3. Using the past as an indicator of the present: Things in the job market change rapidly, so don’t rely on the way things were done in the past – everything is different now, from the interviewing process to the way resumes are written.  Stay current!
4. Thinking “I don’t have time to figure out w.” Lots of older job seekers do not take the time to link their skills to the things they really care about - a big mistake, and here's why.  Going after jobs that use the skills you enjoy most doesn’t just lead to a more satisfying job – it greatly increases the likelihood of finding a job because it’s the right fit.
5. Misusing a recruiter or career coach: These are great resources for getting feedback and a fresh perspective – but the job seeker – not the recruiter or the career coach -- still has to secure the job by acing the interview and having the right skill-sets for today’s job market.  Remember, rely on #1….
6. Jumping into consultancy…or a job that looks like it will be easy
   Many job seekers make false assumptions and jump into things for which they are poorly prepared, or jobs that turn out to be or a very poor fit, easy or not.  You won’t last long in either…
7. Thinking you’re good with computers because you know Windows 98: Boomers who do not continually update their technology skills create huge barriers for themselves in the job market.  Boomers are the most educated generation of all on the planet right now, so use that great brain to develop basic proficiency in all the latest technology.

You have been officially alerted.....