Question: I don’t know what to do about my job search. I stayed home to raise my kids and worked only sporadically throughout my married life (strike one). I’m 58 years old (strike two) and have been unemployed for the last 19 months (strike three). Plus, I am not confident about anything right now, although I try to conceal that fact when talking to people.
Everything I read about finding a job, writing a resume and interviewing seems to focus on career professionals. I am not looking for a career-track position, but I have worked in several important jobs (administrative assistant, inventory clerk). Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to find anything like that in this economy.
I’m about to try McDonald’s or some other entry-level position until I can retire. I just hope that my funds hold out until then.
S.P., Billings, Mont.
Answer: Forgive me for being blunt, but your “strike” system is completely off base. Job hunting is not baseball. You don’t stand there with a wooden bat (or resume) in your hands and wait for pitches (or opportunities) to come your way. You don’t have a limited number of chances to hit or miss.
Not only that, but the “strikes” that you have callously assigned yourself do not apply to your situation. Since you aren’t looking for a climb-the-corporate-ladder position, most employers won’t be as concerned about your mottled work history as you might think.
It sounds like you need a decent job. One that pays the bills. And you need a stable employer who will value your contributions.
Luckily, lots of companies are looking for dedicated, reliable workers. Even in this economy. So, try to ignore your low self-esteem for a while and focus on the facts. Based on your correspondence, I assume that the following positive qualities apply to you:
Excellent transferable skills in administrative support, client/employee relations and inventory tracking that grew out of several hands-on positions over the years. Because of your diversified background, you can easily transition to a new job and start making a positive difference right away.
Enthusiasm to re-enter the workplace. As you probably know, it is common for people to “burn out” from long-term employment. Having spent time outside of the work force, you probably have more drive and motivation than other candidates. You will stand out as a hard-working, energetic employee with a commitment to helping your company succeed.
Life experience. You don’t need as much training or supervision as younger, less mature workers. You also understand the challenges of managing a budget, building lasting relationships and coordinating a team. Your life experience has given you the knowledge and expertise to walk into a new job and start saving money and improving efficiency right away.
To impress potential bosses, write a resume that highlights your transferable skills and demonstrates your ability to boost sales or productivity. Don’t call attention to red flags such as gaps in employment. If necessary, consider removing dates from your resume or using a format that tucks them into the background.
Stop telling yourself that there are no jobs. And stop saying that if there were any jobs, you wouldn’t deserve them. Make employers notice your strengths. See what happens.
Contact Eve at Eve.GetaJob@gmail.com.
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