Looking for work can be challenging, especially for mature job seekers. Nevertheless, being a mature job seeker has its own benefits and experiences that can be emphasized during the job search process. To help increase your chances of success in the job market, here are some useful tips to navigate through it.
Upgrade Your Skills: If you find gaps in your skills, it might be a good time to upgrade them to match your desired job. Keeping yourself up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies is essential, and you can do this by investing in education or courses.
There are also many free resources available to help you improve your skills (Click on the names below to visit the sites!)
- LinkedIn Learning
- University of Alberta
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- Skillshare
- McMaster University
- Coursera
- EdEx
- Google Digital Garage Google Skillshop
- Office 365 Training Center and Microsoft Learn
Tailor Your Resume: When creating your resume, it is important to tailor it to the specific job requirements. Avoid mentioning your age or including age-related information, as it is not necessary. It is also recommended to keep your resume concise and easy to read by focusing on highlighting your skills and experience instead of listing everything you have done. In addition, emphasize instances where your maturity and experience were valuable. Lastly, it is important to create a professional-looking resume. Microsoft Word provides some great templates that you can use https://create.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/resumes. Remember to ensure that your resume appears visually appealing both on-screen and when printed.
Access the Hidden Job Market: It’s important to remember that relying solely on online resources when searching for a job may not be enough. Did you know that more than 60% of available jobs are not advertised online? To access the hidden job market, you need to explore other avenues beyond online job advertisements. You can do this by networking through traditional means, such as attending Chamber or business meetups, reaching out to employers directly, volunteering, and contacting your neighbours, friends, or family. Expanding your job search beyond the internet can increase your chances of finding the right job.
Additional support: WorkBC Centres offers free employment services if you want more customized employment support. Depending on eligibility, your local WorkBC Centre could help you obtain a short-term occupational certificate (STOCs). Additionally, WorkBC Centres offers a variety of workshops to help you learn the current trends in resume and cover letter writing, as well as interview techniques.
As a mature job seeker, you may face some unique challenges while searching for a job. However, it’s crucial to remember that you bring valuable experience and skills to the table. By embracing your strengths, customizing your approach, networking effectively, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can enhance your chances of finding the right opportunity that aligns with your expertise and career objectives.
If you are a registered client with WorkLink, you have the opportunity to attend our Mature Workers Workshop. This workshop is designed to highlight the benefits of age diversity in the workplace and provide guidance on how to overcome the challenges of finding meaningful employment as a mature worker. During the workshop, you will learn about the current trends in job search techniques and how to effectively present your lived experience in your resume and during interviews.