What Do You Want to Do?

RetirementJobs.com Staff Writers
Article 2 of 8 from "The New World of Job Searching"

"I Need a Job and I Don’t Know Where to Start"
Many age 50+ job seekers are not simply searching for a job. Sometimes they are coping with poor health and disabilities, personal and family difficulties, care-giving for parents, and often several of these burdens simultaneously. In the best of times, looking for a job is hard and unpleasant work. For many, it is a near-overwhelming challenge. So what to do?

Identify jobs of interest. Start your journey with a destination – you must identify several possible jobs to aspire to. Don’t worry about whether or not you’re qualified yet – some of your choices may require that you complete necessary training and education. Make a list of every job you can think of that has any level professional or personal interest.

Look around your community for ideas. Who are the major employers? They could be retailers, manufacturers, transportation companies, grocery stores, banks, state and local government, personal care aides, healthcare, and schools. Go to the library or book store and scan through books about careers and occupations. Make an appointment with a career counselor at your state Career One Stop (Employment Office).

Read through the help wanted ads in the newspaper and search online job search posting boards such as RetirementJobs.com. Visit your local community college’s vocational counseling office. They can discuss career options as well as job requirements and qualifications.

For some, this may mean continuing in a primary career, and for others it may mean an occupational or career change. For still others, it may mean blending several part time jobs to meet income needs and personal interests. Self-employment in an area of special interest or talent is another possibility.

Prepare a List
Okay, now list the jobs that appeal to you. Next to each, list several possible employers in your community that may offer such a job. Be sure to include a few major temporary staffing firms such as Robert Half, Manpower, Adecco and Kelly. These staffing agencies list openings with a variety of employers seeking to fill jobs for several weeks up to several months. You may also qualify for paid time off, health and retirement income benefits while employed by a staffing firm.

The jobs on your list should ideally be ones you would enjoy. You should also have at least some of the necessary qualifications. Many people get stalled trying to identify their ideal or dream job. Regrettably, older job seekers sometimes don’t have the same range of choices available to younger workers.