theglobeandmail.com
Ageism and Job Hunting After 50
The article explores the challenges faced by older workers in their job searches, including ageism, and highlights alternative career paths such as entrepreneurship and consulting.
English
Canada
Labour MarketLifestyleEmploymentRetirementCareerWorkAge
Nipissing UniversityStatistics CanadaNational Institute On Aging At Toronto Metropolitan UniversityCanada Career Counselling
Shannon DavidsonEllie BergerFrancine GutwilikBonnie-Jeanne MacdonaldLaura Hambley
- What prompted Shannon Davidson to start her own consultancy firm?
- Shannon Davidson, after being laid off at 54, started her own marketing consultancy. She decided to leverage her experience and expertise rather than seeking traditional employment.
- What are some of the challenges faced by older workers when searching for jobs?
- Ageism in the workplace significantly impacts older workers' job searches, often lengthening unemployment periods and hindering their ability to find suitable roles. Employers sometimes display bias against older candidates, viewing them as expensive or overqualified.
- What career paths are commonly pursued by people in their 50s who are changing careers?
- Many individuals in their 50s transition to contract, entrepreneurial, or consultancy work. This allows them to maintain income while setting their own hours and terms of employment.
- What additional factors, besides ageism, can create hurdles for job seekers in their 50s?
- Older workers face challenges such as health concerns, required flexibility in hours, and economic factors that can create additional hurdles in their job search. The lack of income during unemployment can negatively impact retirement savings.
- What strategies can older job seekers employ to improve their chances of finding employment?
- Upskilling and showcasing adaptability are crucial for older job seekers to demonstrate their value to potential employers. Highlighting experience, wisdom, and mentorship capabilities can be advantageous in a job search.