Emeritus from all walks of life are returning to the workforce— or joining it for the first time. Many employers value Emeritus’ knowledge, maturity and work ethic, but finding a job can be difficult, particularly for adults over age 50. Studies show that entering or re-entering the workforce at later ages is more difficult than at younger ages. However, Emeritus have something that younger workers do not have: experience. Even if you have not been steadily employed, you have picked up transferable skills just by living your life.

Your Skills

Any experience you have gained can be readily applied to the employment you seek, for instance:

• Work
• Parenting
• Hobbies
• Part-time and seasonal work
• Volunteering (see our Volunteering section)

Finding Jobs

Many job opportunities are never listed online, in the newspaper, or in a job bank. Some experts say 80 percent of openings are never advertised. Many businesses do not need to advertise or prefer to hire someone referred to them. Unadvertised openings make up the hidden job market. Your best source of leads for these jobs is your network, people you already know— your friends, neighbors, relatives, former co-workers, church members. Tell them about your job search and ask for ideas about organizations that may be hiring or people they know who can offer information about job openings. Consider adding to your existing network by joining organizations, volunteering, or attending meetings related to occupations or industries that interest you.

Resources

• The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) places income-eligible workers over age 55 in part-time, temporary community service positions where they can learn job skills. Find out more at doleta.gov/seniors/
• Many Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are the point of contact for SCSEPs; to find out if there is a program in your area, contact a AAA by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or by visiting www.eldercare.gov
• One-Stop Career Centers offer skills’ assessments, training referrals, career counseling, help with résumés and interviewing, and job listings. To find one near you, call 1-877-348-0502 or please visit careeronestop.org
• Senior Service America, Inc. (SSAI): SSAI is a non-profit organization that provides civic engagement and employment opportunities for adults over the age of 55 who wish to reenter the workforce. SSAI is one of 18 national sponsors and 56 units of state and territorial governments of the Senior Community Service Employment Program nationwide. Please visit seniorserviceamerica.org for more information.

To find a best volunteering opportunity close to you, we invite you to use our volunteering opportunity widget.