If you are middle-aged, you may have started worrying about your employability.
Have you tried searching for a job but were turned down because you were considered too old?
Do you feel as if your time is running out because there are too many young colleagues around you getting ahead?
What matters is your attitude towards change. Change is not an easy process, especially when you are feeling insecure.
While you cannot stop some employers from claiming that “older workers are much more resistant to change”, you can certainly try to prove them wrong.
Here’s how:
Be open to change: Older workers are perceived to be resistant to change. This makes it difficult for them to be re-employed. Change such mindsets by keeping up with the times and showing prospective employers that you are as suited to the job as anybody else.
Learn new things: Learning does not just mean taking up courses. It also means being ready to take on new projects, new tasks and new roles should the company require you to do so.
If you refuse to learn, someone else will. Then, do not be surprised if you are replaced or your job seems redundant. Recognise that it happened because you did not add value to yourself and the organisation. You can prevent this from happening to you by being open to new ideas.
Anticipate change: Understand what is happening around you and how it is impacting you and the organisation. Keep abreast of new methods. Make an effort to stay updated with new laws, new processes in the industry and new technology so that you can make the necessary changes in your work environment.
Networking and participating in seminars, conferences and workshops are good ways to stay up to date. This way, you will be prepared for what is to come and not be caught off guard.
Be a mentor: Older workers are wiser as they have working experience and a better perspective of the world.
Turn this experience into an advantage by sharing your experiences with younger colleagues and earn their respect. This also increases your value-add in the organisation.
Don’t play the blame game: It will not get you anywhere. Whether you are retrenched or stuck in your current position, be aware that job scopes are always changing. Take action and equip yourself with new skills.
If you are retrenched, look out for programmes that could train you for another career.
If you are stuck in a job, be pro-active and look for ways to make your work more interesting. Make sure you are seen and heard, but for all the right reasons.
Get it right: Not all employers hire people based on age. There are employers who value experience and are willing to take in older workers if their attitudes are right.
Show your future employer that you are willing to learn and take on challenging tasks. Highlight your achievements and show how you can add value to their organisation.
Have you tried searching for a job but were turned down because you were considered too old?
Do you feel as if your time is running out because there are too many young colleagues around you getting ahead?
What matters is your attitude towards change. Change is not an easy process, especially when you are feeling insecure.
While you cannot stop some employers from claiming that “older workers are much more resistant to change”, you can certainly try to prove them wrong.
Here’s how:
Be open to change: Older workers are perceived to be resistant to change. This makes it difficult for them to be re-employed. Change such mindsets by keeping up with the times and showing prospective employers that you are as suited to the job as anybody else.
Learn new things: Learning does not just mean taking up courses. It also means being ready to take on new projects, new tasks and new roles should the company require you to do so.
If you refuse to learn, someone else will. Then, do not be surprised if you are replaced or your job seems redundant. Recognise that it happened because you did not add value to yourself and the organisation. You can prevent this from happening to you by being open to new ideas.
Anticipate change: Understand what is happening around you and how it is impacting you and the organisation. Keep abreast of new methods. Make an effort to stay updated with new laws, new processes in the industry and new technology so that you can make the necessary changes in your work environment.
Networking and participating in seminars, conferences and workshops are good ways to stay up to date. This way, you will be prepared for what is to come and not be caught off guard.
Be a mentor: Older workers are wiser as they have working experience and a better perspective of the world.
Turn this experience into an advantage by sharing your experiences with younger colleagues and earn their respect. This also increases your value-add in the organisation.
Don’t play the blame game: It will not get you anywhere. Whether you are retrenched or stuck in your current position, be aware that job scopes are always changing. Take action and equip yourself with new skills.
If you are retrenched, look out for programmes that could train you for another career.
If you are stuck in a job, be pro-active and look for ways to make your work more interesting. Make sure you are seen and heard, but for all the right reasons.
Get it right: Not all employers hire people based on age. There are employers who value experience and are willing to take in older workers if their attitudes are right.
Show your future employer that you are willing to learn and take on challenging tasks. Highlight your achievements and show how you can add value to their organisation.
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