Workers age 55 and older have been the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. labor force for more than 20 years. Today, more older adults are reentering the workforce—or seeking employment for the first time—than ever before. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 38% of adults age 55 and older were in the workforce in 2024.
Why are older adults rejoining the workforce?
There are numerous reasons. Financial strains have shrunk retirement savings for many baby boomers. The rising costs of housings, groceries, and health care are squeezing retirees who are living on a fixed income. Extending their working years can give older adults an extra cushion in their budget and added peace of mind.
And some older adults simply want to work. They aren’t ready for a leisurely retirement, and they enjoy the mental, physical, and social benefits working brings.
Older Americans are living longer, healthier, and active lives—and it’s reshaping the modern workforce. More employers are realizing that age is an asset, not a liability.
Mature generations bring industry insights and experience to the workplace that their younger counterparts cannot. They’re also dependable and hard-working, with a solid work ethic that can sometimes be in short supply these days.
Is it hard to get a job after 65?
Despite the value older workers offer, older adults can still face challenges when looking for employment. Knowing where to find jobs for seniors over 65 is the first step.
How do you get hired as an older person?
Whether you've been out of the workforce for years or it's your very first job search, below are some practical tips to help you succeed.
1. Browse advertised job openings
Older adults looking for employment often start with advertised job openings. You can find hundreds of job openings posted on company websites, online job boards and career portals, and social media sites (like Facebook and LinkedIn). You'll also find positions listed in trade journals and your local newspapers. Some places, such as grocery stores and libraries, even advertise for workers by posting a flyer in their window.
One drawback of applying for advertised jobs is that many other people may be competing with you for the same job. To make sure you don't spend too much time on these listings:
- Focus your efforts on just one or two specific sources, such as a job site for retired professionals or your local newspaper.
- Respond to new job openings right away, as long as they appear to be from a familiar, legitimate place of business. Don’t waste your time on old listings.
- Never give out your credit card number, Social Security number, or other personal information when responding to job listings.
2. Tap your personal network
While you’ll find plenty of listings on job boards, many more positions are never advertised. Often, businesses prefer to hire through word of mouth. That’s why a great source of job leads is people you know—from friends and family members to neighbors and former co-workers.
Older, experienced workers are more likely to have a vast professional network, career coach Kyle Elliott, EdD, told Kiplinger. "Now is the time to leverage it. Don't be afraid to reach out to former colleagues, clients, and vendors at your target companies to set up informational interviews, learn about the culture, and see how they might benefit from your background and skills."
Tell people you’re actively looking for a job and ask if they know of any local businesses looking to hire. Ask for a referral if a job seems like a good fit. Those who know and like you are rooting for your success!
If your social network is small, try expanding it by volunteering for a local charity, joining a local networking club, or attending events related to jobs you’re interested in. Once you've spotted an opportunity, aim to learn more about the company and its needs. Call the referral directly to introduce yourself and find out how to apply for open positions.
3. Call your local staffing agencies
Employers looking to bring on people immediately will often work with a staffing agency to fill a vacancy as quickly as possible. While some positions will be temporary, some employers are hoping to fill open positions permanently. Working for a staff agency on a temporary basis may be particularly attractive if you need immediate income while you continue your search for a permanent position.
Full article @ https://www.ncoa.org/article/7-effective-job-hunting-strategies-for-older-adults/