Job hunting over 50 in India: it isn't over yet
Looking for a new job when you’re in your 50s, or older, can be a challenge, even if you have the necessary qualifications or work experience. There are jobs for those who are 50 years and older in India, but sometimes, it takes a little extra searching to find the right fit. In some cases, an age bias may be standing in the way. Employers may think that older workers are more expensive to hire and insure. In other cases, employers may question whether PMETs and other professionals over 50 have the relevant skills needed to do the job. However, we have seen that not only are there plenty of exciting jobs for those over 50 in India, experienced professionals are in high demand to help lead projects and provide specialised expertise. Here are some tips and advice if you are 50 years and older in India and searching for a job.
Refresh your resume or CV
It’s something that many professionals overlook: the importance of a CV or resume in getting noticed for open jobs. Especially if it’s been awhile since you’ve done an overhaul of your CV, it’s time to go back to square one and create a CV that is eye-catching, well-presented and does well.
Here are a few practical tips for your CV:
Avoid specifying personal details such as your marital status or date of birth. Your name, address, phone number and email are sufficient. Limit your employment history to the last 10-15 years, focusing on the skills and experience most relevant to the role. Address any periods away from the workforce in your cover letter or at the interview, highlighting the skills you gained during that time.
Think outside the norm
If finding a suitable role is taking longer than anticipated, try expanding the scope of your job search. Could you transfer your skills to a new or related industry? Would you be willing to look for roles in a different location? If these options don’t suit your situation, consider these ways to keep your skills up to date and take the pressure off while you search for your ideal type of work:
>Part time, contract, or temporary employment Offering your services as a coach, mentor or tutor Volunteer work Becoming a board or community representative Use your network Many interviews for senior level positions are generated by personal recommendations; making networking even more important for mature age job seekers. Let everyone know you are looking for a job, including former colleagues, alumni, family and friends. As well as sourcing potential job leads, you can also gain advice on prospective companies and positions on offer. You might also consider creating a profile on LinkedIn, which has the dual benefit of building your network and demonstrating an aptitude for technology.
Networks are also crucial at this juncture as personal connections play a strong part in opening up possibilities and opportunities. If your networks are not strong enough, it is still not too late to build on them now. Start by doing some pro-bono consulting work — this will help you to build connections across more platforms.
Job market outlook for those in India
Mid to senior-level candidates in high-value products and R&D are highly sought-after in India. Also, in rapidly developing economies like Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar, senior-level candidates will have the expertise and experience that companies are looking for to support and accelerate business growth. Especially in key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, energy and construction.