Gene Burnard: Bridge Generation Gap

The year is 2009 and there are now four distinct generations competing for jobs in the American workforce.

The good news for job seekers over the age of 50, says Gene Burnard, pushlisher of Workforce50.com, a career site advocating for older workers, is their great inherent value to employers. They bring experience, a depth and breadth of knowledge, and a notorious dedication and work ethic to whatever they do. However, as with any job seeker, an older job seeker must demonstrate to a potential employer that he or she is the best person for the job.

In job hunting, older job seekers do encounter challenges that younger cohorts do not, especially when the older job seeker has not searched for work for 10, 20 or even 30 years. A lot has changed; the "proven methods" of finding a job no longer exist. And there are a whole host of stereotypes (inability to adapt, to use technology, or to learn; too expensive, etc.) about older workers that must be countered during the job search.

Finding a new job or new career is a job. Treat it like one. And recognize right up front that this is not going to be easy. Then, get on with it.

Here's how:

• Maintain a bird's eye focus. In preparation for a job search, a job seeker goes through a personal assessment phase. Make the big decisions about your job objectives and form your strategy. Then, execute that strategy. It is so easy for someone with years of employment experience to wander, consider other opportunities and lose focus.
• Prepare yourself. All job seekers must prepare for rejection. Use rejection as a way to learn. Ask firmly why you were not selected and use that information going forward. Also prepare for silence as it is very rare these days for employers to communicate if they're not interested.
• Maintain a positive attitude. Attitude shines through in every communication. Let all of your communications, verbal and written, sing with a can-do, positive attitude.
• Network, network, network. Participate in every networking group that you can. If you are uncomfortable networking, observe how others, regardless of age, operate, learn and practice. Tell everyone you meet that you are looking for work but be specific about what you communicate.
• Research employers, jobs and contacts ad nauseum. Research and know everything about an organization before making the first contact. This is even more important as an older job seeker. Your research will provide a basis on which to sell your skills and to make a good connection.
• Be adaptable. First, learn about and adapt to today's most effective job search methods. Then, present yourself as an adaptable member of a potential employer's team.
• Don't date yourself. While interviewing, you will be looking for common ground and a connection with someone potentially a generation or two younger. No need to flag your differences by making age-related statements such as "I remember the first moon landing." Present yourself in such a way that they can visualize you as an integral part of the organization.
• A successful job search or career transition later in life can provide the opportunity to make new contributions, continue learning, develop new relationships, create security and enjoy work.