50+ Baby Boomers!

It can be difficult being 50+ and applying for a job. First of all don’t be discouraged. The key to a successful interview is confidence and an updated resume. Wiser Worker.com is dedicated to providing quality employment opportunities and resources to the largest demographic group in the country, Baby Boomers, 50+.
1. Don't wait to be laid off to look for a new job. It's always more difficult to find a job when you're out of work, and this is particularly true when you're over 55It's a perception issue: When you're employed, you're perceived as being "still in the game" you're looking for new work because you want new challenges. That's exactly what you want to project as an older worker. Once you're out of work, you risk being perceived as "washed up."
2. If you have been laid off, do a little soul-searching before deciding your next move. When you're younger, getting laid off is often a cause for panic; you dive right in to your job search. For older workers, force of habit may cause you to do the same thing. But now's a good time to think about what you really want at this stage of your life. Would you be happier doing what you do on a part-time basis? Finding a new job takes longer when you're older, so it's worth making sure you're committed to the path ahead.
3. "Dumb down" your resume. It's unfortunate, but age discrimination in the workplace is a very real problem. As a result, you might be screened out for a position simply because your job history goes back 30 years. Beyond age discrimination, there is the issue of being viewed as overqualified. If a company says it wants 10 years of experience, it might not want to pay for 30 and may screen you out without bothering to ask your salary requirements. In situations like these, you should use an alternative version of your resume that only goes back 10 or 15 years.
4. Put personal networking first. Most jobs for 55-plus executives come from personal referrals. In situations where you're seen as an individual rather than a demographic, you're going to have a much better chance. Build your personal network through online tools like LinkedIn and by becoming an active member of local professional groups. To make more time to network, spend less time searching for jobs online.
5. Target companies where the leadership skews older. Through your networking and research, you should seek out employers where the leadership team skews older; these companies are less likely to view you as a fossil simply because you qualify for AARP. If a company's execs are in their 30s and 40s, you might be out of luck. If they're in their 50s and above, however, being over 55 can be a real advantage, as you are more likely to be viewed as a cultural fit.
6. Be patient. When you're over 55, finding a new management or executive job generally takes twice as long as it does for younger executives. Perseverance is the key to success and this is more true the older you get.

Information Provided by: Job hunting tips for 50+