The Effective Job Search for Boomers

Planning before searching for a job can be an effective way to streamline the process and get to work.  Here are some suggestions:

      Formulate your goal.  If you don’t have a target job goal you will be regarded as an indecisive and undesirable employee.  Have a realistic goal and search out job descriptions to find matches to your goal and talents. 

      Make a self-assessment.  Take a career evaluation test such as Livecareer to determine where you want to be.  Be honest.

      Determine your immediate need.  If you need immediate employment then you should focus on employers who traditionally have continuous openings and not be focused on a career move. 

      Target specific employers. Look for employment where you can use your skills/talents to their fullest potential.  By identifying jobs which you are qualified for you can focus on your talents when talking with employers.  

      Determine what pay range.  It is very important to determine what salary range you are willing to accept before you begin your search.  Try to be flexible but know your bottom line. Don’t waste the employer’s or your time by applying for jobs you will end up declining.  For senior level positions look into The Ladders.

      Decide what you want from your employment. Determine if you want flexible hours, benefits, location, and wages.  You could be more interested in obtaining benefits than in the actual bring home pay.  Or, you might want to have a secure and less stressful job with little or no overtime. 

       Decide if you want to advance.  It could be that you do not want to move forward and will be content with one position.   

Most importantly, continue to keep it real.

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