What is the fate of women over 50 in the workplace? According to an article in the New York Times by Patricia Cohen women over 50 are jobless even as others return to work. Is it anymore difficult now than before? Yes, times have changed however, older women in the workplace, or coming back into the workplace have always found it necessary to be better, do more, and often accept less pay.

Does this mean that there is no hope for you? Of course not.

woman-over-50-on-a-computerThe way you see yourself determines how others see you. If you’ve embraced the idea that older women are invisible, you’re setting yourself up for failure in and out of the workplace. Being invisible is a sure way to stay unemployed. You’ve been out of work for a few years and have been constantly looking. Even when you’ve gotten interviews you never hear from them again.

What can be done about this? Change the way you look at things then the things you look at change. I know this sounds trite, however, there is more than a grain of truth in it. When you decide to go back into the workplace, prepare yourself.

Here are some suggestions that my clients have effectively used.

  • Learn to network purposefully. Yes, get out of the house and dress for the job you desire.
  • Learn to meditate and practice silence.
  • Visualize yourself in the position that you desire..see, feel and taste it. Be in the visualization as if you are starring in your own movie.
  • Practice in your mind, getting ready for work, walking out the door, being in your transportation to work, walking in the door at work, sitting at your desk, and doing the work.
  • Be mindful to be busy, not just look busy.
  • Create a joyful and peaceful air about you.

Restructure your Resume and Cover Letter to reflect the job for which you are applying:

1.  Create a Resume of not more than two pages.
2. Omit your years of graduation.
3. Never put a fax number on it.
4. Use your cell phone number.
5. Create a digital presence, LinkedIn, Facebook.
6. Get a current email address without a number using Gmail. Using AOL or Yahoo dates you.
7. Refresh your look to be vibrant and age-defying. If your bones crack when walking, standing, or sitting find something to take or put on them to prevent the popping.
8. Restrict work history to the last 8 years focusing on how you improved or helped your previous company.
9. Sit or stand without assistance, do not use the chair to get up or sit down.

The dynamics of being older and having more experience than perhaps your younger supervisor can be challenging. Do NOT treat your boss as your grandchild and do not be condescending! Treat your boss the way you’d want to be treated if you held the position. Avoid saying “well, this is how I did it…” No one cares, they want to know what can you do for them now.

Getting a job and staying employed is possible. Use your time and be intentional about who you are and what you desire to do. The only thing left is to go for it.

Inez Bracy, Audacious Living Coach, World Traveler, Author, and Speaker is passionately committed to guiding self-employed and executive women over 50 to achieve confidence, clarity, choice, courage and freedom so they can live their life on their own terms.

Inez can guide you to achieve the results you desire and the life you imagine. One step in creating the life you imagine is embracing your bliss. Join the 7 Days To Blissful Living Challenge, and get started today.