Quick and Simple Tips for Baby Boomers on the Job Hunt

In today's difficult economy, more and more seniors are abandoning retirement and re-entering the workforce. Unfortunately, that means they're competing with people half their age or younger for the same jobs in a sluggish economy. The good news is there's hope. With a little know-how and a few personal and professional updates, baby boomers can feel confident competing with younger generations in today's job market.

Update Your Technical Skills

Let's be honest: Professionals of the younger generation were practically born with cell phones in their hands. They grew up online and thus, most of them are just naturally tech-savvy.

When prospective employers are evaluating the difference between younger and older candidates, technology skills are high on the list. Older applicants will do themselves a favor by upgrading their capabilities. Simply taking a class, either online or in-person, can help make you more proficient quite quickly. Even if you're already fairly skilled, consider demonstrating your capabilities by obtaining certification. The MS Office specialist certification, for example, can be a compelling qualification.

Update Your Resume

Potential employers receive countless resumes when looking to fill a position. To make sure yours doesn't get tossed aside or overlooked, you may need to make some changes including some or all of the following:

--Drop old experience off of your resume. A general rule of thumb is to list any experience within the last 10 to 15 years. If your last job was longer than 10 years ago, list the last three to four positions you held along with an updated list of skills and any recent certifications, credentials or degrees you may have obtained.

--Leave dates off the education section. You may be well educated but if you received your degree decades ago, it might be a red flag that your experience and skills are outdated. By leaving the dates off, you're giving the impression that you're qualified and knowledgeable without cause for concern before a potential employer has a chance to meet you face to face.

--List volunteer experience. Even though these positions are unpaid, they can still provide valuable experience and skills you can use on the job. It also shows the prospective employer how you've been staying busy, even if you've been out of the workforce for a while.

Update Your Look

You may have entered your "Golden Years," but that doesn't mean you have to look the part. Update your image by coloring your hair, changing your hairstyle, or buying some new clothes. If you're a little overweight or out of shape, start eating healthier, drinking water, and doing some light walking or exercise. You'll look and feel more energized, healthier, and more confident, and you'll show potential employers that you can keep up with the best of them.

By following these suggestions you'll be well on your way to landing your dream post-retirement job and enjoying work ? again.

Chrissy Scivicque, the founder of EatYourCareer.com, believes work can be a nourishing life experience. As a career coach, corporate trainer, and public speaker, she helps professionals of all levels unlock their true potential and discover long-lasting career fulfillment.