Over 50 and looking for work? Then why not take the path of least resistance and pursue employers that welcome seasoned workers?
The AARP just released its biennial survey recognizing the best employers for the over-50 set. This time, the field was expanded to include public employers at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors.
While only 50 companies were recognized, job seekers may discover other similarly-minded organizations by looking for those that boast about diversity hiring on their Web site. As in earlier surveys, companies in the healthcare industry dominated the list of winners. That might signal other healthcare companies embrace experienced workers.
Competing organizations were evaluated on recruiting practices, training and development opportunities, workplace accommodations, alternative work options (like phased retirement), and health, pension and retiree benefits.
If you're out there interviewing, consider citing this quote from the AARP's Web on the merits of hiring experienced workers.
By 2016, one-third of the total U.S. workforce (or 33.5 percent) will be age 50 or older, up from 28 percent in 2007. As the proportion of younger workers continues to decline, attracting and retaining mature, experienced employees is becoming increasingly crucial for employers who seek to retain their competitive edge in today's marketplace.
If you're older than 50 and recently landed a job, tell us how you found your opportunity.
-- Leslie Stevens-Huffman