Career Tips for Older Professionals

The old days of being rewarded for company loyalty have long passed and unfortunately as we age, we often become less valuable to our current employers. Companies looking to cut costs often choose the tenured, experienced employees as the first to go when they can hire younger workers who cost them less in terms of overall compensation packages and benefits. If you’re approaching middle age, however, there are a few things you can do to stay on top of your game and give yourself a little more job security.

As the baby boomers continue to age, the federal government predicts that within the next 5 years, more than half of the country’s workforce will be over 40. This bodes for older professionals in just about any industry. To keep yourself viable in the workplace, it important, however, to keep your skills current. In IT especially, you’ve got to stay on top of advancing technology. Take the time to read up on your changing industry and sign up for educational opportunities, as they become available. You should make sure that you’re just as current in your skill level as someone just coming out of college.

Pay particular attention to your health and fitness, how you carry yourself sends a message about your age. If you feel good and look good, your attitude will carry over into your productivity level. If your managers are concerned about your health or potential longevity in your current position, they just might start thinking that you are too old to continue to perform at your current level. As a senior member of a team, it’s critical that you stay open-minded about change. A willingness to try new methods and or tactics will solidify your position as a team players. Negativity or a refusal to adapt to new techniques or a changing environment will not endear you to your supervisors.

And finally, in case all else fails, know your rights. If you are an older worker and feel that for any reason you’re being discriminated against in the workplace, there are steps you can take that go beyond hitting the gym a little harder. Discriminating against anyone because of their age is against the law and is not looked upon favorably. If you believe that you’re being discriminated against in the workplace, make sure you follow the proper channels to report it.

Normally, that includes taking the issue to your immediate supervisor first. If you approach the problem and are met with an unfavorable response, your next step should be the human resources department for your company. If all else fails, keep in mind that legal action can be taken to protect you in the workplace if you feel your rights are being violated. Contact an attorney or an association likes the AARP for valuable advice. The AARP, online at http://www.aarp.org, is an excellent organization and has a wealth of resources available online for it’s members and older professionals.

Normally, that includes taking the issue to your immediate supervisor first. If you approach the problem and are met with an unfavorable response, your next step should be the human resources department for your company. If all else fails, keep in mind that legal action can be taken to protect you in the workplace if you feel your rights are being violated. Contact an attorney or an association likes the AARP for valuable advice. The AARP, online at http://www.aarp.org, is an excellent organization and has a wealth of resources available online for it’s members and older professionals.

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