Successful Strategies for Securing Employment in Your Fifties
In the ever-evolving job market, finding employment can be a challenge, especially for adults over 50. However, with the right approach, older job seekers can overcome ageism and secure their place in the workforce.
According to recent updates from Resume Builder, one in eight retired senior citizens is expected to return to work in 2025. This trend is not unexpected, as AI is seen as the next innovation that could reinvent retirement as we know it. Yet, figuring out how to generate enough retirement income and replace that old paycheck can be challenging.
A 2024 CNBC and SurveyMonkey poll revealed that more than half of respondents are behind on their retirement savings. Landing a job over 50 can be challenging, but it's not impossible.
Dr. Kyle Elliott, a career coach and mental health expert, suggests focusing on the last 10-15 years of experience on a resume and highlighting what sets the candidate apart. By repackaging experience around current impact and value, older job seekers can show how their skills solve today’s challenges and prepare for future needs.
In addition to this, using present-tense language in resumes and interviews helps demonstrate that you are actively engaged and relevant, not relying solely on past accomplishments. Continuous upskilling to learn new technologies and industry trends highlights adaptability and counters stereotypes about older workers being resistant to change.
Networking strategically, seeking companies known for age diversity and inclusion, and considering consulting, temporary, or freelance roles can also increase the chances of finding a job. Highlighting your role as a mentor and positive culture contributor can show that you bring leadership and team-building skills beyond just individual tasks.
Overcoming negative thought patterns and limiting beliefs related to age, focusing on strengths, and creating a clear career reinvention roadmap can help regain control and purpose in your job search.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 66.8% of 55- to 64-year-olds are still active in the workforce. Older workers are engaging in various types of work, including remote roles, freelance gigs, and traditional full-time positions. As of May 2025, there are approximately 7.8 million job openings nationwide in the U.S. (BLS).
The figure for a comfortable retirement is $1.26 million, according to the 2025 Planning & Progress Study by Northwestern Mutual. To estimate the future value of your retirement savings and determine how much you need to save (or earn) each month, consider using Kiplinger's Retirement Calculator.
It's important to note that while it's illegal for employers to discriminate against applicants due to their age, ageism remains a challenge for older workers. Elliott also advises leveraging professional networks for job leads and referrals, and taking online classes or earning certificates relevant to a particular position can help demonstrate versatility and counter stereotypes.
In conclusion, by focusing on reframing their experience as relevant value, showing adaptability and willingness to learn, and targeting age-friendly employers, older job seekers can build a compelling narrative that counters ageist biases, emphasizing agility, ongoing learning, and the unique value an experienced professional offers in today’s dynamic labor market. This guidance comes from recent career coaching experts and research on navigating ageism, making it timely and practically applicable.
Personal-finance education and self-development are crucial for older job seekers in 2025 as they may need to restart their careers. Learning how to estimate the future value of retirement savings, such as using Kiplinger's Retirement Calculator, can help ensure a comfortable retirement.
In career-development, focusing on current impact and value, demonstrating adaptability through learning new technologies and industry trends, and showcasing versatility can increase older job seekers' chances of employment in the ever-evolving job market.
