by Deborah Moore
AARP Nevada Director of Communications
During an economic downturn it's natural to be concerned about your job security. When the going gets tough, older workers are often the first offered buyouts or targeted for layoffs.
Whether you have 20 years' seniority or took a job with the company last week, older workers can do things to make themselves more marketable in a changing economy.
According to the AARP Nevada Member Survey released in March of 2007, one third of AARP members in Nevada say that it is highly likely they will continue working beyond traditional retirement years. Many of those surveyed (42 percent) said they would stay in the workforce for the enjoyment of having a job. As such, AARP Nevada is working with business to create a climate where employment opportunities are readily available for those 50+.
AARP, Board of Directors member, Jacob Lozada, addressed the State Society of Human Resource Managers in Reno on 50+ workforce trends in September. Lozada said, “The economy is making people think twice about retiring. People over 50 want to work for different reasons. For some it's a matter of culture and work ethic, for others it is fear of diminishing income and loosing their nest egg. Many want financial security and a job may mean more health care benefits.”
Lozada says boomers have knowledge and expertise and many do important jobs, but sometimes employers hire only younger workers. “Many boomers are actually writing resumes to reflect less job experience than they actually have. Some hide their birth date or lie about how long they've been working.” Some boomers are also enhancing their appearance to look years younger to compete in the youthful market.
Despite negatives, more people over age 50 are remaining in the workplace than at anytime in history, and the trend to hire is getting better due to the populations growth and hiring initiatives. “There is a larger portion of people over 50 to occupy jobs. It has grown faster than the number of younger workers. In fact it is the fastest growing population except those over 65 years of age.” There is also a shortage of workers in certain professions; hiring older workers or retaining them will help fill the gaps.
The AARP Foundation has two programs geared to help 50+ workers. AARP's Worksearch program is a web-based system that offers mature workers the tools they need to assess their job interests and skills, address training gaps, and connect available jobs with local employers that value their experience. There is no income limit to participate in this program and anyone 50+ can do the online assessment.
Additionally, AARP has an incredible web site with great information on job seeking, from finding a job to locating other web sites for 50+ job seekers. The site is rich with information designed to help job seekers of all ages with their search. It also hosts the “Water Cooler,” an online community of 50+ seekers who share their own experiences and helpful tips with others seeking employment later in life. Visit: www.org/findingajob for tips and resources.
AARP has engaged over 40 national companies and organizations through the AARP National Employer Team in a collaboration to match 50+ workers for current job openings. Businesses that join the AARP National Employer Team get exclusive access to AARP's 39 million members on the web site as well as opportunities to engage members directly when seeking employees. A complete listing of this employment group and links to each company's career page can be found at www.aarp.org/employerteam.
The second program the AARP Foundation offers is the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), providing job-retraining and help re-entering the workforce to 55+ adults with limited incomes. SCSEP helps program enrollees sharpen their job hunting skills, obtain on-the-job training and find a permanent position.
AARP Foundation, Reno Project Director, Thomas R. Booth, says last year the office was able to see over 300 people. He said, “There were about 100 people who found permanent jobs.” Booth says in Northern Nevada the economy is the biggest reason people are loosing their jobs, however, certain populations such as hispanic, and non- English speaking have more difficulty. SCSEP has been serving the Truckee Meadows over 30 years, and can be reached by calling (775) 323-2243 or visiting the AARP Foundation Office at 1135 Terminal Way, Ste. 102, Reno, NV 89502. Visit: www.aarp.org/nv