There are many reasons as to why an older person might re-enter the workforce and here is how to make that transition a little easier.
Across the many decades of a career, there are a multitude of reasons as to why you might take a break from work, be it a period of transition or semi-retirement, during which you plan the next phase of your career. However, if and when you decide to go back to work, it can be a daunting experience.
If you are older, it can be especially difficult, as with the technological advancement of the workplace, much might have changed since you were last a member of the workforce. So, how might employees at a different stage of life prepare themselves for re-entry into the working environment?
Upskill for the future
You may only have been out of the workforce for a few months or a year, but even so, technology can change the workplace overnight. To ensure that you are ready to rejoin and less likely to feel overwhelmed, why not take part in some upskilling before you start your job?
Microcredentials, online tutorials and training courses via third-level institutions are a great way to learn new skills and prepare yourself for the expectations of the modern workplace. You are never too old to learn something new, so why not give yourself the best shot at having a long and varied career, in this next phase?
Don’t be a pushover
Ageism is an unfortunate aspect of the workplace, in which older employees are made to feel as though their age has rendered them a burden. Additionally, it is often incorrectly assumed that, by virtue of being older, they are less skilled, more traditional and stuck in their ways.
You really do influence how people treat you via your words and actions, so if you act as though your age is a detriment to the organisation then people will respond in kind. When you go back to work, make sure that you don’t allow for ageist remarks to be thrown your way, nor should you allow others to be subjected to it.
While you may be nervous about rocking the boat, having only just restarted your career, age-based discrimination is, in many countries, against the law and it is important to stand up for yourself. On that note, don’t be afraid to socialise and make friends. Yes you are at work, but it helps to get to know your colleagues and to be on friendly terms with them.
Look after yourself
It is a fact of life that the older we get, the more we have to consider our health and how our jobs might impact it. For example, if you are older and your job is sedentary, it is advised that you move around more, to avoid stiffness, weight gain and the other symptoms associated with a slower lifestyle.
Before you go back to work, make sure that you assess your physical health and address any issues that you might have to make your co-workers or employer aware of.
Because age can also be used as a barrier to prevent older people from re-assimilating, it is important that you be upfront and transparent, whilst also showing that any physical limitations you may have will not affect your job performance.
Stay positive
Rejoining the workforce, at any stage of life, comes with its own set of trials and tribulations. It is very possible that during the hunt for a new job, or as you navigate the interview process, you might become disillusioned, affecting your motivation. This is a very normal response and it should not deter you.
Instead take a few steps to ensure that your CV, interview skills and industry knowledge are on par with company expectations. That way, you are on the same level as everyone else and when it comes down to it, it will be a matter of being the most deserving candidate.
Going back to work, after a break, any kind of break, requires determination and the motivation to keep going even in the face of rejection. As long as you know your own value, can pinpoint why you would be an asset to any organisation and are willing to learn, then you are already on the right track. Now it is just about finding that perfect gig.
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