UK 
United States
In 2017, Workplace Insight reported that almost a third of 50-64-year-olds in the UK are struggling to find work over younger generations. The data suggested that the over 50 age demographic could be experiencing an ‘unemployment trap’.
The study revealed that almost one million of the over 50s who have been unemployed for a year or more left work voluntarily for reasons including redundancy, health challenges or caring responsibilities. With this being the case, Saga.co.uk has collated four key tips to help over 50s with their CV writing:
Don’t put your date of birth on your CV
Particularly if you are worried that prospective employers will check your date of birth, the site explained that there isn’t an obligation to even include it on your CV.
Emphasise your experience
Experience is commonly viewed as a more valuable asset than education. So, list key achievements and previous roles before including academic qualifications.
Account for any gaps
Cover all bases when discussing your employment history. If periods of unemployment are relevant, include them on your CV too.
Do lots of networking
According to Louisa Peacock, who was the Jobs Editor at the Daily Telegraph, almost 80% of vacancies aren’t publicly advertised. So, looking up old contacts might just pay off.
And it seems that this demographic are facing tougher recruitment conditions when it comes to securing a job. Therefore, Inc.com has collated three harsh realities facing jobseekers who are aged 40 and over.
1. Many jobseekers in the over-forty age bracket feel frustrated when they are repeatedly told that they’re overqualified for a job during or after an interview.
They may have spent years grafting for an outstanding skillset that they can use on their CV, but it seems to be working against them nowadays. J.T O’Donnell, Founder and CEO of WorkItDaily.com wrote that she often uses this example:
“How can an employer justify paying for a Porsche if they believe they can get from point A to point B just as well with a Kia?"
Younger generations such as Millennials and Generation Z are often viewed as cheap labour, have fewer bad habits and are keen to climb the career ladder.
2. After months of applying and numerous unsuccessful job interviews, candidates aged over forty may eventually accept a job with less seniority and less pay.
However, O’Donnell said that going backwards in pay and seniority isn’t the answer. She urges jobseekers to find a job that matches their perception of worth.
3. Numerous studies have revealed that this demographic is not as self-aware as they might think.
So, this demographic may feel that they are a tech-savvy and experienced professional but this may not be how they are perceived by their colleagues.
Alice