Options Over 50

Skill transfers to younger workers?

2009-05-25T07:44:00.003-04:00

Because of concerns about the large-scale retirement of baby boomers, federal human resources managers are boning up on knowledge management science, and particularly methods to transfer the tacit knowledge of older workers to younger ones.

Capturing that knowledge and transferring it to younger workers is difficult. But the challenge is greater: We may not be able to recruit enough young and midcareer employees to fill the void of retiring baby boomers.

According to research compiled by the Center on Aging and Work at Boston College, between 2002 and 2012 there will be only a 1 percent increase in the labor force participation of people aged 20 to 24, a 12 percent increase in those 25 to 34, 10 percent increase among those 35 to 44, and a 10 percent decrease in those 45 to 54.

Fortunately, another solution to our labor-force shortage seems to be right under our noses. From 2002 to 2012, there will be a 48 percent increase in the number of U.S. workers 55 to 64 and a 40 percent increase in those 65 and older.

We should try to prevent our older employees from walking out the door and recruit other older workers with the skills and experience we need.

Many employers are taking active steps to retain and recruit older workers. My agency has benefited greatly from the skills and experience of retirees from state and nonprofit agencies who were attracted to the federal government by its generous pension benefits.
There are many reasons why older workers are in high demand. According to the Center on Aging and Work, employers in a 2007 survey said it was “very true” that older employees tend to have positive attributes such as high skill levels, professional and client networks, and a desire to lead or supervise. In a 2007 survey of employees, older workers were the most likely to rate being professional and ethical as “extremely or very important.” Seventy-two percent of human resources professionals surveyed indicated that advantages to hiring older workers were their invaluable experience and willingness to work different schedules and serve as mentors.
Surveys also have found that the great majority of older workers hope to work past the traditional retirement age, but they will also want more flexible schedules. This could mean offering them more flex-time or telework options, or the ability to work part time or to share a job.

Some employers are reluctant to retain or recruit older employees because of concerns about their health. These concerns appear to be unfounded. During the 2004-2006 period, 74 percent of people age 65 and older rated their health as good to excellent. Today people who survive to age 65 can expect to live an average of almost 19 more years — and studies suggest that these extra years are increasingly healthy and active. Between 1992 and 2005, the proportion of people age 65 and older with a functional limitation declined from 49 percent to 42 percent.
Agencies may need to adapt the work environments of older workers to accommodate some physical limitations. The fiscal specialist in our New York regional office is 90 years old and was diagnosed with macular degeneration 10 years ago. We set him up with an assistive technology device that enhances the magnification and resolution of electronic media. His computer also reads to him. Thanks to these small accommodations, he still serves as the fiscal officer for 16 states.

Given the challenges confronting our nation, we cannot afford to lose the expertise of federal workers who will be eligible to retire in the next few years. While it is important to capture their knowledge and pass it along to younger employees, we must not lose sight of a simple and obvious solution to our work-force crisis. Let’s keep the older employees we have and recruit new ones. There will be large numbers of them, they want to contribute, and they have the skills and experience we need to carry out our missions.

A summary from recent posts on forum from Aging Resources...

Thought you would want to see the Feds position.

Have a safe and Happy Holiday.

Mark

Labels in the Workplace

2009-04-20T12:51:00.000-04:00

No matter how old you are, there is always a label attached to your age — especially in the workplace.

“Perceptions about older workers often dominate the hiring process,” says Jean Erickson Walker, Ed.D, author of “The Age Advantage: Making the Most of Your Midlife Career Transition.” “Today’s 60 is yesterday’s 40. People aren’t checking out Sun City. They are healthy, energetic and competitive and determined to remain productive well into their 70s. They aren’t going anywhere near that rocking chair on the front porch if they can help it.”

Walker notes that a few of the apprehensions employers may have about older workers are arguable:

· Health concerns. Employers worry that older folks may ultimately cost more as their health deteriorates. Walker says that people older than 50 tend to take fewer sick days than younger people, and that it “takes a gurney to get them off the job.”

· Technologically inept. “The concern about people at midlife being technically [incompetent] is an old saw that holds very little merit,” Walker says. “Although they didn’t grow up with computers on their desks, they’ve been using them for over 20 years now. There is very little they don’t know about common usage.”

· Younger bosses. Bosses do get younger every day, but Walker says that the relationship between someone with experience and someone who is ready to experiment and take risks can be outstanding. “Once they get over the initial adjustment, they often develop a relationship based solidly on mutual respect and each learns from the other,” she says. “The key is a leadership philosophy based on collaboration rather than top-down authority.”

If you’re an older worker who is looking for a job where people will have faith and trust in your wisdom, here are five jobs where your experience and expertise are an advantage:

1. Health care professional
Why age is an advantage: Though young people in the medical field are more than capable of providing exceptional medical care, some people simply don’t feel comfortable having someone their daughter’s age in charge of their life. Older health-care professionals exude good judgment and breadth of experience; people believe you are less likely to be wrong or make a mistake.
Annual average salary*: Salary will vary depending on your position in the industry.

2. Financial adviser
Why age is an advantage: Older workers hold a lot of credibility with stakeholders, Walker says. There’s a natural assumption that someone older knows what he is talking about, which is important when talking about finances. People will believe they can trust your opinion because they come from having been “been there, done that.”
Annual average salary: $66,242

3. Career counselor
Why age is an advantage: It’s doubtful a college graduate is going to feel comfortable getting career advice from someone who graduated the year before her. People want career advice from people who actually have depth in the work force. Older workers have a great work ethic, as most of them came into the market when they remained at one company until earning a gold watch. That type of commitment will be useful when others need help landing a career.
Annual average salary: $47,074

4. Brand manager
Why age is an advantage: Older workers usually have a clear commitment to company goals, which means they believe in what the company is selling. “Their knowledge and experience in the global marketplace creates a frame of reference to understand ‘why’ and to recognize the place of the company within that marketplace,” Walker says.
Annual average salary: $60,706

5. Consultant
Why age is an advantage: The good thing about being a consultant is that you can consult for almost anything. As someone older, you probably have more than one area of expertise; consult for them all! Your knowledge will make clients believe you will commit fewer errors, identify the best opportunities and find the clearest path to results, Walker says.

Best Wishes..

Mark

Job Hunter Tips and Tricks!

2009-04-06T19:32:00.001-04:00

Job Hunters - Beware!

Millions of people over age 50 are looking for jobs. And there are many reputable employers looking to hire them. But there are also many dishonest, unethical organizations looking to track down these same people - but not to provide jobs. Instead, these organizations are trying to cheat and steal from these mature workers with some creative, deceptive and all too appealing employment scheme or scam. Let's review what to beware of as well as what safe resources you can use to find a legitimate and rewarding job.

Work-at-Home ScamsYou are told that you can earn $500, $1,000, even $5,000 a month, working from the comfort of your home. Work-at-home scams are far and away the most widespread. If the ads are vague, emotional, lack detail, exaggerate and appear amateur - they are scams! There are actually very few legitimate employers providing real work-at-home opportunities - and none of them require up-front fees or investments by you. Some of the most common scams are:

-Light Assembly and Envelope Mailing- "Work from your own home and assemble products or stuff envelopes." If this is an ad by a company with a plant or office you can go visit, it may be true. Otherwise, don't believe it! If they also tell you that you need make only a small investment or pay fees, walk away - it's a scam!

-Medical or Commercial Billing- "Make calls, mail invoices or collect payments." Again, if it is a real medical practice or company that has an office or plant, they could well be looking for extra help with billing and collections. But if you're asked to buy or rent office equipment before you can get started, say no - it's a scam!

-Telemarketing and Customer Service- Same rules apply: if you are asked to pay any money up front, steer clear. Some may be legitimate - check them out. Most are a scam to separate you from your savings.

-Complete Marketing Surveys- "Get paid to participate in phone and Internet surveys and earn $500 a day! Pay only $2.95 to become a registered survey participant." Rubbish! These are the newest variation on a plain and simple scam.

If a work-at-home arrangement were such a fantastic opportunity, why wouldn't all the smart money and big investors set up a company to do the work? They don't because most all are scams.

Advertised and Online Employment Agency ScamsPosing as private employment agencies, scammers offer to, and even guarantee, they will get you a job. The jobs are often civil service, government and postal jobs. They are looking for two things from you - money or personal information. You will be asked to pay an "advance placement fee" or provide personal information such as Social Security number, bank accounts and credit card accounts. Some will tell you this is needed to complete pre-employment reference checks. There are even very bold scammers who will actually have an office, interview you, help with your resume or summary of experience, promise you a job, take your money - and do nothing else! If anyone asks you for money or personal information up front - tell them, thanks but no thanks!

Self Employment and FranchisesThere are many excellent franchise opportunities for mature and retired people. There are even more crooks and scammers. They advertise in newspapers, magazines, posted signs and on the Internet. Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell legitimate from scam. If the company does not have a recognizable name, be careful. Never enter into any franchise or self-employment contract without consulting an independent attorney - and never send money or personal information to anyone in advance.

Traditional Employment AgenciesThere are employment agencies that have been in business for years making money by charging job seekers to help them find a job. Stay away from them. There are plenty of reputable and effective employment agencies that make their money from the employers they service.

Four Golden Rules to Avoid Being Scammed
1. Never Send Money or Divulge Personal Information- Anytime you are asked to pay any money in advance for anything or give anyone your social security, credit card or other personal information - assume it is a scam and walk away. Period!

2. Know What is Being Offered- "You'll pay me to do what?" If you are not crystal clear on what work you will be doing and how you will be paid - assume it's a scam and walk away.

3. Check Them Out- Check with the Better Business Bureau, call your local or state government, call your state attorney general, call an attorney, call a friend, call a family member, but be sure to verify whether this is a real company. Ask to see their office or plant. Do not take anyone's word for anything! If you cannot confirm the promises being made, walk away.

4. Too Good to Be True- If it sounds too good to be true - it's because it most certainly is. The scammers know that hope and trust spring eternal - don't believe their promises - you will lose.
Four Things You Should Do!You've heard about what to avoid and what not to do. If you are looking for a job and a paycheck, here is what to do!

1. Use Government Agencies- State and local government and social service organizations offer job training and search help. Contact them. Don't know whom to call? Call you local town or city hall and ask.

2. Reputable Private Employment Agencies- Contact established and reputable private employment agencies - they are listed in the yellow pages under "Employment Agencies." There are agencies for full time, contract and temporary jobs. Call several and go visit them now!

3. Known Employers- Look in the Want Ads. Make a list of the companies in your area. Read the business section of the newspaper. If they have an office, they have a Human Resources or Employment department. Call them and submit an application. No jobs? Ask them to suggest other appropriate employers. Be sure to check out AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50 - these companies have been recognized for their efforts and commitment to employing you!

4. Online Job Postings- Stick with the known, reputable online job posting boards. The good news is that employers are waking up to the wealth of capable mature and retired workers looking for jobs. There are several posting boards targeted at workers over 50 - even retirees looking for part time jobs close to home. A leading site is RetirementJobs.com. Sites such as these provide information, services and job postings specific to the needs of mature and retired people.

Best Wishes -
Mark

Interviewing Tips

2009-03-27T09:04:00.001-04:00

Many job seekers have been taught that interview success depends solely on their ability to answer the questions put to them in an impressively professional and knowledgeable manner. However, while the answers you offer up will play a big part in determining how you come across in an interview, they're really only one piece of the puzzle. In fact, some job search experts say that the questions that you pose in an interview can be equally important in helping you make a positive first impression.

A Two-Way Street
Although the hiring manager clearly has the upper hand in most interview situations, that doesn't mean that he or she should be the only one asking questions. According to Tony Beshara, author of Acing the Interview: How to Ask and Answer the Questions that Will Get You the Job, the best interviews are more like lively back-and-forth discussions than one-way interrogations.

By preparing and posing a few pointed questions of your own over the course of the interview, you'll be able to accomplish two important tasks. First, you'll highlight your ability to think on your feet, respond to emerging situations, and analyze information quickly. Second, and perhaps most importantly, the right questions will allow you to get a better sense of what it's like to work for the company – and help you figure out if the position is right for you.What Should You Ask?The questions you pose to the hiring manager should include queries you have prepared in advance of the interview, as well as follow-ups relating to topics that come up over the course of the discussion itself. Use these tips and techniques to craft questions that will help you succeed in your next interview.

Avoid the obvious. Although you can definitely boost your profile by posing the right kind of questions, not every query will score points. Don’t ask questions to which you already know the answer, or that you should have been able to find out on your own with a little pre-interview research.

Involve the interviewer. Rather than focusing solely on the company as a whole, personalize your questions by targeting the interviewer’s experience with the team. Ask the hiring manager to recount favorite experiences or to discuss the company’s main strengths and challenges.
Delve deeper. Try to formulate in-depth questions that showcase your analytical ability. Take the information the interviewer provides and use it as a jumping-off point to move towards a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. Rather than responding with surface-level questions, kick things up a notch, focusing on more complex queries that begin with words such as "how" or "why."

Put a positive spin on things. Even when you're asking pointed questions, there’s no need to submit your interviewer to the third degree. It’s important to come across as enthusiastic and optimistic about the position and the company’s prospects, even when you’re digging deep for more information. If the company is facing tough market conditions or stiff competition, ask about these challenges in a way that conveys your confidence in the organization’s ability to thrive in even the grimmest of circumstances.

End with a call to action. After you've put a number of in-depth, intelligent questions to your interviewer, your last question should always focus on the next steps in the hiring process. Ask about the schedule for making a decision, or whether you can provide any additional information.

It’s always to your advantage to leave the interview with a clear understanding of what comes next, so take this opportunity to ask a few questions about the way that the process will unfold.

By posing a few questions of your own in your next interview, you can showcase your analytical skills and uncover new insights about the company and the position. If you want to land your dream job, all you have to do is ask!

Overcoming Age Bias

2009-03-25T19:30:00.000-04:00

Now, what can you do to avoid or overcome age bias?

Know Your Rights - Become familiar with the fundamental rights provided by federal and state ADEA laws. You may choose to not always pursue or enforce these rights, but you should know what is, and is not permissible. Refer to this AARP explanation of your rights under the ADEA (Link).

Be Clear on Your Objectives - Examine your personal and work life, and inventory your knowledge, skills, capabilities and achievements. Get some career advice and select the occupation or profession in which you are most apt to prosper. Consider what you most enjoy doing. Identify specific employers and know just the type job you want. Get it all down in a clear and concise resume. Your clarity and confidence of purpose will come through to employers.

Be At Your Best - This may sound a little silly, but look and be at your best. Splurge on a new interview outfit (even if that 30-year old suit still fits); be well groomed; maintain your personal fitness to the highest possible level; make sure health and medical conditions are under control; be well rested; research the employer and display your knowledge; be confident and poised; practice for interviews with a friend or professional; and finally, put all concerns about your age and the threat of age bias out of your mind. Incidentally, don't let up if you're already employed - do your job as well as you can.

Be a Continuous Learner - Whether you are a candidate or employee, always be growing and learning. This is particularly important for your computer skills and knowledge. Ability to use a computer, use email, perform internet research, and handle basic applications such as word processing are not optional anymore. Inability to make even basic use of a computer is a cause for rejection in all but a handful of jobs - many of which you wouldn't want. Buy a computer, set up an internet account, and take lessons. While you're at it, arrange for a mobile phone. PC skills and a cell phone are powerful ways to show you are "tech savvy" and not a dinosaur.

Look and Work in the Right Places - Many industries and employers are aware of the value of older workers. Search them out and apply for work. If you're already working for an age friendly employer, do everything you can to hold onto the job.

It might be a tired old saying, but relating to age bias, "know the things you can change, the things you can't, and the wisdom to know the difference."

Mark

Networking... Yeah..Yeah..

2009-03-24T09:52:00.003-04:00

We have all heard the buzz word - Networking...

But recently I found a nice application for the process and how folks over 50 can use these tools... Read on...
Take advantage of that large network you have to track down that next job. Contact the people that you know and/or have worked with in your career. You are not asking for a job! You really are just looking for advice on what companies are good places to work; what companies are growing (and hiring), where there might be opportunities for you.

You are simply asking colleagues and friends for advice and leads. Ask them where they would look for a job if they were in your shoes right now.

Sources:
By age 50, you must know many people in your industry, professional and/or community. If you haven't already contacted some of these people, do it now!

Job-Hunt's Job Search Networking Expert, Liz Ryan, has written many articles about networking, including how to find your network, how to help others in your network, and how to be a good networker yourself.

Social networking site LinkedIn (free) has become very useful in finding former colleagues and helping you reconnect. Build out your LinkedIn Profile as a resume, connect with your friends and colleagues who are also using LinkedIn (over 25,000,000 people are), exchange recommendations, and join LinkedIn Groups to demonstrate your knowledge and connect with more people.Do a search on the employer's name and see who turns up. If you have a specific person you want to reach, do a search on that person's name. LinkedIn will help you find and stay in touch with these people. Job-Hunt Social Networking Expert Jason Alba has written some great articles about leveraging the social networks which should be worth reviewing.
If you've helped anyone get started in your industry or profession, helped them with their job search, or done them a favor, that's another group of contacts to explore. Again, LinkedIn may help you find those people. And you can also check Ziggs (free), ZoomInfo (free), and JigSaw (fee) which have contact information for people in different companies.

Did/do you belong to any school or business "alumni" groups? Colleges and universities have had them for years, particularly the schools supported by donations, and now groups are developing based on common background working for a specific employer. Contact your schools (high school through graduate schools) to see what alumni services they offer. To find employer alumni groups, Google "former employees" (with the quotes) and add the company name or check the company Website for "alumni" or "retiree" information. Also, check Job-Hunt's list of corporate, government, and military alumni groups.LinkedIn also has an extensive list of Groups, including all kinds of "alumni" (college and corporate) as well as special interest groups. You can start "discussions" within those groups, if you are a member, and they can be an excellent way to get back in touch with people you may have forgotten you knew. You can also start a group if one for your former employer or special interest doesn't exist.

Did/do you belong to any clubs, professional or industry organizations, Chambers of Commerce, or other collection of people who meet with each other on a regular basis? Keep going to those meetings; visit the web sites. Some organizations have jobs posted for their members (or by members for the public). See Job-Hunt's links to national and international associations which may have chapters meeting near you.

Job search support groups have popped up everywhere, often associated with a church or Jewish Community Center (which usually provide non-denominational support). It's another way to extend your network as well as to get help staying "up" and learning new things about your local job market. Job-Hunt.org has an extensive list of job search support groups, by state, for the U.S.

These are NOT "informational interviews," and you don't need to feel humble. You are just staying in touch colleagues and members of your business network. You may have helped them in the past, and you may help them again in the future.

These are just colleague-to-colleague discussions. Business as usual!

Try it - I certainly am !

Mark

Workamper - A what???

2009-03-19T09:10:00.004-04:00

While researching our theme of Options over 50 - I found this interesting option.
A Workkamper - I said " A What?"

Well, Workampers are adventurous individuals, couples and families who have chosen a wonderful lifestyle that combines ANY kind of part-time or full-time work with RV camping. If you work as an employee, operate a business, or donate your time as a volunteer, AND you sleep in an RV (or on-site housing), you are a Workamper!

Most Workampers are in their 50's and 60's, however there are many who are younger and many who are older. A little more than half of all Workampers work to supplement their retirement income, while the rest work to support a full-time, or near full-time, RV lifestyle. Most Workamper jobs are in the Outdoor Hospitality Industry (resorts, campgrounds, theme parks, state/national parks, etc.), but there are many very interesting jobs available in other areas as well. Part-time or full-time, short-term or long-term, there is something for everyone!

So.. if old faithful RV is sitting in the driveway - check out:

http://www.workamper.com/?gclid=CP-Lv5eIr5kCFQGbnAodLQNqIw

Have a great day !

Mark

Websites for Mature Workers !

2009-03-19T08:09:00.007-04:00

Options Over 50 - Senior Friendly Websites

As you begin your job search online, consider the following tips:
Look for targeted websites, focused on one audience such as the 50-plus worker or one profession or one geographic area. They are smaller and more likely to have something that meets your particular skills, qualifications and personal requirements.

Generally, you should not have to pay for job listings or to post your resumé online. Some sites do offer services like resumé reviews or career coaching that have fees, but the basic service—job listings and a little advice—should be free.

Know who you’re working with. If there isn’t any real information under the About Us or Contact Us links (like a name, address and phone number), don’t use the site. Real businesses have no problem giving you their names and contact information.

Some sites to visit in your search -

http://www.wiserworker.com/

Website that advertises positions in all States - refers to it's self as the "Senior Employment Resource."

http://www.senioroutlook.com/

Senior Outlook - A varity of resources from senior housing to free credit reports, jobs and much more.

http://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/econ/fs142_worker.pdf

This is an AARP longterm study on the the issues of older workers. This link is the lastest update on the study - it is 2007 data, but provides some interesting demographics.

http://www.aarpworksearch.org/pages/SCSEP.aspx

Another AARP resource. This site describes the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) offered in many communities. Check it out!

Good Searching Friends!

Mark

Older Workers Postpone Retirement!

2009-03-18T08:22:00.000-04:00

CHICAGO, March 17, 2009 – While the economic crisis is being felt by nearly every segment of the working population, one group of workers is faced with particularly tough decisions regarding their futures. Six-in-ten workers (60 percent) over the age of 60 say they are putting off their retirement due to the impact of the U.S. financial crisis on their long-term savings, according to a survey by CareerBuilder. The survey was conducted among more than 8,000 workers between November 12 and December 1, 2008.

Depleted savings accounts due to the economic downshift are causing older workers to stay in the workforce longer to make up for their losses. One-in-ten workers (11 percent) over the age of 60 who are putting off retirement say that the decrease to their savings may now cause them to never retire, while 73 percent think it will take them up to 6 years of extra work to recoup their lost savings. Nearly a quarter (24 percent) feels they can make their money back by working an additional year or two.

“Mature workers may be feeling the pinch of this difficult economy more than others because of their impending plans for retirement,” said Jason Ferrara, Senior Career Advisor at CareerBuilder. “Mature workers who are returning to the workforce to offset their retirement losses will likely encounter many of the same challenges that workers of any age are facing today. However, their level of knowledge and experience and network of professional contacts will work to their advantage in a competitive job market.”

PrimeCB.com, CareerBuilder’s job site for mature workers, offers tips for navigating through a difficult economy:

Talk to your supervisor. Let your company know that you would like to postpone your retirement, focusing on your strengths and value you bring to the organization. Come prepared with ideas for new revenue opportunities, operational efficiencies or creative executions and volunteer to head up new projects.

Track market trends. Keep the changes in the job market on your radar if you are concerned about layoffs at your organization and know you need to keep working. Study areas that are showing growth even in a down economy and research how you can transfer the wide set of skills you already have to opportunities in those fields.

Network offline and online. Throughout your career, you’ve likely built a large network of professional and personal contacts. Add to this network by joining various social networking sites such as BrightFuse.com and Facebook.

Be resilient. As a mature worker, chances are you’ve been through an economic downturn in the past. Use what you learned in previous recessions to help the company weather the storm and serve as a reassuring presence for others within the organization.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T08:11:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day !

Have you found your four leaf clover for luck ?

Hope you have! If not, keep looking - it's out there!

Mark

Volunteer Your Way To A Job!

2009-03-16T09:12:00.003-04:00

That’s right, volunteering some of your time to a favorite non-profit or even a small business is a great way to find a new job in our current work environment!

How? Well, let’s say that you’re a former construction worker, with many years of experience. Volunteer to do some fix up or repairs for a non-profit - maybe even round up the donations for materials to do the job. Use your old contacts to solict support. You’ll find plenty of eager takers especially now with money being so tight for so many. In addition to getting the great experience that employers so crave, you’ll also be in a great position to meet more of those potential employers. Former sales person ? Marketing for non-profits is always in demand. Accountant or book keeper ? Those skills are always in demand !

When you volunteer for non-profits, be sure to network with the members of the committees and boards as the people who serve on those groups tend to be movers and shakers in the community. Many will be businesses owners, executives or managers and will either be interested in hiring you to work for their organizations or will likely know vendors, clients, or even competitors who could benefit from your skills.

I recognize that most unemployed people do not have the funds to volunteer all the time. They need to spend most of their time searching for work. But virtually all who are unemployed can spend 30 to 40 hours per week searching for a job by networking, pounding the pavement, and applying to advertised jobs and spend an additional four to eight hours per week volunteering.
And if you volunteer your time in a thoughtful manner by networking with members of the committees and boards, you’ll almost certainly find that great new job a lot faster than those who just sit at home all day applying to jobs which are advertised on-line.

Check out your options today!

Mark

Starting Your Own Business

2009-03-15T11:11:00.002-04:00

Folks,

I read each day that the trends for economic recovery really rests with small business owners. Small businesses in the US are the backbone of the economy. Small business hires employees locally, pays taxes, spreads the wealth in our local communities.

What about it ? Who better to operate a small business than the over 50 group!

We have plenty of experience in working... we've worked for others.. we know what employees want or don't want... We have experienced the ups and downs of business...

So, why not strike out and start a small business. It doesn't matter what it is...

Here are some leads to get you started -

Let us know how it goes !

Mark

Check out the various programs offered by organizations designed to help entrepreneurs and new small business owners get the information, training, and even financial assistance they need. Much of this assistance is either free or low-cost. Some sites that are definitely worth checking out include:

The United States Small Business Association (SBA)
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
SME Tool kit
Business.Gov
Start-Up Nation
My Own Business
SCORE
The American Entrepreneurs for Economic Growth
Internal Revenue Service Small Business Tax Center
The American Small Business Development Center Network
Micro Mentor
National Business Incubation Association

50 + Workforce is GROWING!

2009-03-14T07:54:00.001-04:00

Adults 50-plus represent one of the fastest growing labor groups in the United States, in part because many of today's older workers are delaying retirement. People seek senior jobs to supplement inadequate retirement income, while others continue to work for personal satisfaction. Often, seniors retire from one occupation only to begin another.
Whatever their individual plans and motivations may be, it’s clear that the number of senior workers - and the need for senior jobs - is growing rapidly.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports:
· Only 13 percent of American workers were 55 and older in 2000.
· By 2006, that figure will increase to 15 percent, and by 2015 one in five (20 percent) of all U.S. workers will be 55 or older.
· At the same time, the U.S. is expected to experience a significant drop in the percentage of younger workers age 25 to 44, making it increasingly important for employers to find ways to recruit and retain older workers.

The U.S. Administration on Aging reports that retirement patterns are changing among America's 78 million baby boomers, and this trend is expected to result in an unprecedented number of 50-plus workers participating in the workforce of the 21st century, and an increasing need for the availability of senior jobs.

According to a 2002 AARP survey of employed workers aged 45 to 74:
· The majority (69 percent) of those interviewed plan to continue working beyond traditional retirement age.
· More than a third (34 percent) of the total sample said they would work part-time for interest or enjoyment.
· 19 percent said they would work at part-time jobs for necessary income.
· 10 percent plan to start their own businesses.
· 6 percent would change careers and work "full-time doing something else."
· Less than a third (28 percent) of older workers said they would not work at all after they reach retirement age.

Your Chance for Fame!

2009-03-12T08:10:00.002-04:00

Folks,

Here's a opportunity that is right up our alley! A writer is investigating persons that have been laid off and is looking for people that have started a business after a layoff or downsizing. If you don't have anything to contribute - look at the April Christan Science Monitor for some ideas from those that have been interviewed!

Mark

Category: Business & Finance
Name: Marilyn Gardner
Email: gardnerm@csmonitor.com
Title: Staff writer
Media Outlet/Publication: The Christian Science Monitor
Anonymous? No
Specific Geographic Region? No
Region:
Deadline: 5:00 PM EASTERN - March 12
Query:
“If you’ve been laid off, have you decided to start your ownbusiness? What is your focus - services? products? What are thechallenges? Are there rewards too? Is this something you’ve wantedto do, or is it a decision you made because other jobs aren’t available right now? Has it required a substantial investment ofmoney?”

Welcome !

2009-03-11T13:01:00.003-04:00

Welcome!

Since you've found your way to this blog... you are probably over 50 years of age... have experienced the challenges of employment after 50 or have recently been downsized, offered early retirement, unemployed, experienced age discrimination in employment or the host of other challenges we meet.

Well, this is the place to share!

As members of this growing group (Over 50) we have much to share with one another. Have you left corporate America and started your own business? Have you some tips to share for the over 50 seeking employment? What about some good websites for job seekers?

Our blog is open - please come join and share your words of wisdom!

Thanks,

Mark