Personal Advancement
Burning questionsQ: I am in my late 50s, and am interested in changing jobs, but am afraid that I won't be considered because of my age. Do you have any advice for me? SHANNON JACKSON |
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 [ 2004-03-31 ] |
A:As the Canadian workforce ages, this circumstance is becoming more and more common. Employers are beginning to recognize the need for retaining workers who are approaching (and have hit) traditional retirement ages. In fact, we need to increase the number of working people over the age of 55 by 25% in the next two years, just to maintain a consistent labour-to-population ratio!
Mature workers have a lot to offer an employer: a strong work ethic, experience, knowledge, and judgement. Vitality and energy and more important than age to most employers. Throughout the hiring process (resume follow-up, telephone interview, face-to-face interview and follow-up), be sure to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
Your resume should detail your most recent and most relevant work experience. You do not, however, have to list every position you may have held throughout your working career.
Employers who are less familiar with labour statistics may have the impression that hiring a "younger" worker may provide the employer with more longevity. Interestingly, statistics show that the opposite is true. Today, employees in their twenties stay an average of 18 months in a position. Candidates in their late 50s are more likely to be retained for the balance of their careers.
(Shannon Jackson is the national recruitment manager for Manpower Services Inc. www.manpower.ca)
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