Over-50 Jobseekers Need Free-Agent Mentality

Due in large part to layoffs and investment losses, an increasing number of people over 50 find themselves in a role they never expected at this stage in their life – that of a jobseeker.

If that’s YOU, finding a job can be an uphill battle as you combat ageism, and a perception that you are over-qualified or, conversely, that you lack the specific job skills needed in today’s work world.  The battle can be won however, if you adopt the mind-set of a free agent.

Just like professional athletes looking to play with another team, you need to know your transportable skills, what you are worth, which “teams” you would consider playing for, and which factors will trigger a “trade.” Having the mindset of a free agent gives you a big advantage.

Here are the characteristics of today’s free-agent jobseekers.

• They are self-aware, introspective, and they check their ego at the door.
• They project an image that is consistent with the job they seek.
• They are able to articulate experiences, skills and competencies.
• The build on their relationships, network effectively and reciprocate when appropriate.
• They test how they are perceived and welcome feedback.
• They are focused and committed to a few specific roles or industries.
• They are proactive and discerning about identifying possible new opportunities.

Once you embark on a journey of inner-exploration, you’ll find you have the courage to make important, personal choices – and that you can articulate both what you DON’T want and what you DO want in a new job.  Important note: You must do whatever you can to get rid of fear and doubt since they are serious obstacles that will trip you up and sabotage your job search.

With self-knowledge that emerges from a free-agent mentality, you’ll be free to design a personal career map that helps you get from point A to B, from B to C, and so forth. Career Mapping is an ongoing voyage that frequently takes many twists and turns. But taking this all-important inner-assessment quite simply hastens your journey along the route you were meant to take.