Revive Your Job Search: Proven Tips to Get It Moving Again!
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Meet Martha Lemieux, a determined 57-year-old from Athol, Massachusetts. After being unexpectedly laid off from her biotechnology role, she dove headfirst into the relentless world of job hunting. With a robust 35 years of expertise under her belt, she anticipated a swift comeback. However, Martha soon found herself sending out countless applications, only to be met with radio silence from potential employers.
(Pexels Photo)
“This was the first time in my career where I didn’t have a new job lined up, so I had no idea what to expect,” Martha recalls. “Over five months, I applied for 96 jobs, participated in five interviews, and grappled with waves of depression and feelings of unworthiness.”
Job searching can feel like running a marathon without a finish line. The race involves sending hundreds of résumés, waiting for responses that often don’t come, and facing the anxiety of uncertainty. For older workers, the stakes are even higher; nearly 26% of those aged 55 and older who find themselves jobless have been out of work for six months or more. In contrast, only 18% of younger job seekers face that same long-term struggle.
A recent survey by Pew Research Center highlights an alarming trend: over half of adults report losing part of their identity during job searches, and many face increased anxiety and depression during this challenging time.
Crafting a Résumé That Works for You
As Ed Samuel, a seasoned executive career coach from Philadelphia, points out, a lengthy job search can shake the confidence of even the most seasoned professionals. The first step to turning the tide? An impactful résumé that highlights your strengths.
“A stellar résumé combined with an impressive LinkedIn profile is your ticket to success,” advises Samuel, author of Optimize Your Resume: DOs and DON’Ts the SamNova Way. “Leave off jobs from over a decade ago and steer clear of outdated phrases like ‘references upon request’ to keep your résumé fresh and relevant.”
Roza Szafranek, CEO of HR Hints in Chicago, emphasizes that your résumé should not only showcase your experience but also illustrate how your skills can serve a potential employer. Quantifying your achievements—such as stating you boosted sales by a certain percentage—can significantly increase your appeal to employers.
Additionally, Lisa Severy, a certified career counselor with the University of Phoenix, mentions the importance of tailoring your résumé to include specific keywords from job postings. “Many recruiters now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter résumés. Make sure yours stands out by incorporating relevant keywords.”
If you’re seeking personalized guidance, AARP offers free résumé reviews through its Resume Advisor service to help you fine-tune your application.
Stay Motivated Through Networking
Enduring a prolonged job search can lead to self-doubt. Finding support is crucial. “Joining networking groups or working with a career coach can reinvigorate your motivation and confidence,” Samuel suggests. Networking also uncovers opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.
National platforms like the Great Careers group can provide job seekers with educational resources, virtual workshops, and community support. Similarly, the AARP Foundation’s Back to Work 50+ program offers coaching and resources tailored for older job seekers.
“Work is often our link to the world outside of family,” notes Severy. “It’s vital for job seekers to maintain connections within a professional community not just for career advancement, but to navigate the emotional challenges of a job hunt.”
Photo Credit: Alpha Stock Images
Prioritize Self-Care to Beat Burnout
Experts warn against letting the job search consume your life. “Set specific times for job hunting or limit yourself to a certain number of applications weekly,” suggests Severy. Incorporate self-care practices like taking daily walks or ensuring you get enough sleep to prevent burnout.
Martha found her rhythm by applying to four or five jobs each week while spending time on job search activities. “I carve out afternoons for my garden, walking the dogs, or tackling household tasks. This keeps me feeling productive and balanced,” she shares.
Consider New Strategies in Your Job Search
If you’ve been stuck in a rut, it may be time for a change. “If your current approach isn’t yielding results, try something new,” Severy advises. “A fresh method can provide new insights.”
Samuel insists that simply sending résumés isn’t enough; a compelling LinkedIn profile showcasing your strengths is equally important. “Hiring managers rely on LinkedIn to find candidates, so make sure your profile shines with relevant keywords.”
Tackle Ageism Head-On
Despite the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), ageism remains a challenge in the workplace. Research indicates that two-thirds of adults over 50 believe older workers face discrimination. If you suspect ageism is hindering your job search, don’t shy away from addressing it directly in interviews.
“End interviews by reassuring employers of your commitment to the job; mention your health and career plans,” Samuel suggests. Employers value passionate, experienced workers who can contribute to their goals.
“Understand what the employer needs and position yourself as the solution,” Severy adds. This proactive approach can set you apart in a crowded job market.
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