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  CHALLENGES OF SECURING A JOB AFTER 50s

  Jul 21, 2024

  If you're over 50 and looking for a new job, you may experience fewer opportunities in getting hired. In the recent article by The Star dated June 7, 2024, it was highlighted that employers often find various reasons not to hire people over the age of 50.

  Reasons Why Employers Won’t Hire Employees After 50s

  Here are some reasons we gathered from employers on why they are not considering hiring employees in their 50’s or older:

  1.Not Able to Familiarize with the Latest Technology

  There’s a common belief that older people struggle to keep up or take longer to learn with rapidly changing technology integrated into our daily work processes.

  2. Often Over-Qualified

  Many hiring managers think older workers will look for higher-paying jobs that match their skills and experience.

  3. Generation Gap

  Some think older workers won't accept a younger manager. Younger managers might feel uncomfortable supervising someone much older, so they might reject even qualified candidates based on age.

  4. Unable to Cope with Change

  The stereotype that all older workers struggle with change is over-rated but it's not always true. However, this stereotype can still affect how older workers are perceived in interviews, regardless of their actual abilities.

  5. Often Think they are Right

  Some older workers may interpret suggestions as a challenge to their authority or knowledge, leading them to assert their opinions more forcefully.

  6. Long-Term Continuity

  Some organizations seek to engage employees to work on a long term basis with them. Hence leaving them with the idea that older employees potentially will leave the company sooner rather than later.

  7. Lack of Energy

  As we age, it's a fact that our energy levels can decrease. This doesn't mean older workers are less enthusiastic or enjoyable, but some hiring managers may unconsciously overlook them for this reason.

   

  Why employers should consider hiring employees after 50s

  We interviewed a number of employees over the age of 50 and gathered their insights on why companies should consider hiring them and the following is some of their feedback.

  1.Seasoned and Experienced

  Hiring experienced employees over 50 brings valuable knowledge gained from years of solving problems, handling crises, achieving results, coaching other junior employees, and negotiating with clients and suppliers/vendors. They also understand how organizations work and can offer valuable advice to team and colleagues.

  2. Loyal and Committed

  Studies show that older employees exhibit higher levels of loyalty. They tend to remain with the same employer for extended periods and show strong commitment to their employer and customers.

  3. Broad Network of Connections

  They have a wider network over their careers, including clients, former colleagues, suppliers, and friends. Employers can benefit from these connections.

  4. Open to Short Term Employment

  Some older employees may be open to short-term project roles due to their extensive experience, whereas many younger employees often prioritize permanent roles.

  5. Experienced Employee with Lower Salary

  Retired employees sometimes seek employment primarily to stay active rather than remain idle at home. Thus, they are willing to accept a pay cut simply to keep themselves occupied, with money no longer being a primary motivator for them in the workforce.

   

  Tips for those in their 50’s or older to get hired

  Here are some tips to consider to successfully get a job.

  1.Highlight your Job Skills

  Include keywords related to your current job skills rather than focusing solely on past achievements.

  2. Start Exposing yourself to Technology

  Begin by familiarizing yourself with the tools utilized by today's workforce and gaining a thorough understanding before embarking on your job search. Stay engaged on LinkedIn or other platforms to immerse yourself in current technologies available. The more you learn, the quicker you'll adapt and understand.

  3. Accept Change

  Capable of gracefully embracing changes in procedures and working collaboratively with younger generations who may approach tasks differently.

  4. Accepting New Terms of Employment

  Willing to accept the employment terms offered for the job, including being flexible with time commitments as required. Open to dedicating additional time when necessary, without insisting on strict adherence to regular working hours or being unavailable for overtime or weekend work when needed.

  In summary, while older job seekers face age-related challenges, their experience and dedication bring valuable benefits to employers. By emphasizing current skills, demonstrating tech proficiency, and staying connected through networking, older employees can enhance their competitiveness in today's job market. Embracing fairness and valuing everyone's contributions can create a stronger workforce where experience and skills matter most, not age.

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