AARP WorkSearch

Our Get Started page will help you with the basics for starting your job search: Set a specific job goal, get organized, create a target list of companies, update or create your cover letter and resume, and create a network.

However, not every job search is the same. Some job seekers are out of work. Some are employed but want to change jobs. Some are getting back into the workplace after some time off. Here are some tips for several of the most common job search situations.

When Age is a Factor
If you think your age is a factor in your job search, be aware of some age-related job search issues and how to address them. Older workers need to be more patient, diligent, and confident during their job search.

On your resume, highlight your experience going back no more than 15 years. Don’t use your graduation date if you went to college or graduate school. Emphasize your experience and long-term industry knowledge. If you have technology and computer skills, emphasize them. If you need to improve those skills, take a course.

When you network or interview, be sure your appearance is current, including appropriate clothing – not too casual, or too formal.

You can read more on our Employers and the Older Worker page.

When You Are Still Working
Looking for a job while you have one requires discretion. You don’t want your current employer to know you’ve started your job search. Don’t discuss your search with your coworkers, and don’t use your work telephone or e-mail. Plan to do your job hunting on your own time – your break or lunch hour. Make your job search phone calls on your own time and away from your job. To keep your job search confidential, you can ask former employers to be your references.

During a Recession
If you’re job hunting during an economic downturn or recession, focus your search on the companies or organizations that most interest you and that need your skills – especially those that are experiencing worker shortages. Research occupational job growth information, which comes out every month, and identify the categories that have gained jobs. Concentrate on these growth industries and areas that will be unaffected by economic slowdowns or will continue to grow given any current conditions.

Consider non-traditional business environments, such as startups, spin-offs, nonprofit organizations, the public sector, and smaller companies that are growing. These entrepreneurs look for flexible employees who can work without a rigid structure or process. You can also find out if state, local, and federal governments are hiring.

Update your skills, and be sure you are proficient in the basic skills your potential employer needs and expects. Focus on your strengths and market yourself as a brand or a product. Brush up on sales skills, such as persuasion and negotiation, because these will help you sell yourself to an employer. Increase your networking efforts, especially online, and connect with people you haven’t yet contacted.

Be realistic about how long it will take to find a new job. The more money you expect to earn, the longer your job search will be.

Be flexible. Be prepared to move if the right opportunity is in another area or state. Be willing to work as a consultant or even a volunteer to get your foot in the door of the right company. Consider free-lancing, looking for a part-time job, or finding a temporary job – these jobs can sometimes lead to full-time work.

If you find a job, consider maintaining your job search for at least 30 days into the new job in case there are unexpected layoffs or your job offer is rescinded for financial reasons within the company.

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Handling a Prolonged Job Search
In both good and bad economic times, some job searches last longer than expected, creating financial and emotional strains. To weather a long job search, examine your job search methods and reassess your strategy. Ask a friend, former colleague, or job placement office to review your resume, cover letter, and job search strategies. Be flexible about rewriting your resume and adjusting to a new approach.

Increase your networking efforts and connect with people you haven’t yet contacted. Join professional associations or job clubs to meet new people and make industry contacts. Consider volunteering for one of their committees, where you might meet new contacts.

If you have trimmed your personal budget and are spending your savings, it may be time to look at your biggest costs. Find out if you can refinance your mortgage or make a loan modification that will reduce your monthly payments. Consider free-lancing or finding a temporary or part-time job. Find out if someone at your bank or job placement center can give you additional advice.

Managing the Tough Times
Job searching can be a long and sometime discouraging process. You can expect stretches of time when your search moves forward and then steps back, and you need to manage the tough times that accompany your progress.

Retaining a positive attitude is essential in any job search. Maintain your social and professional connections and friendships. Avoid becoming isolated if your job search is prolonged. Learn to handle rejection, knowing that you’re not the only job seeker who has experienced setbacks.

Maintaining your physical health is just as important. Try exercising with yoga, biking, dance classes, or swimming. If you’re on a budget, remember that walking is free. These forms of exercise are all stress relievers and will also improve your health.

If you need professional or intellectual stimulation, learn something new. Take a training or computer course, or volunteer at an organization where you can have an exciting and different experience.

Ask for Help from a Volunteer Job Coach
Try the AARP WorkSearch Volunteer Job Coaches. Volunteer Job Coaches (VJCs) provide the WorkSearch participant with basic job seeking information and services that will help them find and maintain employment. The coaches utilize tools and assessments to help you achieve your career goals.

Try letting a VJC take an objective look at your current job search plan. A coach can offer you the support and structured guidance that will assist you in developing a strategy for finding that new job. The VJC is the primary contact with the WorkSearch clients and checks in on the client's progress. If you’re interested in working with a job coach, please email: worksearchservices@aarp.org.

(Please note: the demand for job coaches can be quite high. We appreciate your patience with our response time.)

Job Search Do's and Don'ts