Older workers face long, frustrating job search
By Allison Linn / Senior writer / msnbc.com msnbc.com
updated 6/3/2010
After more than three decades in the restaurant and hotel industry, Ron Pierson didn’t think he’d have trouble getting a job when he found himself without work in February 2008.
But in the more than two years since he lost his job, Pierson, 55, has applied for hundreds of positions, ranging from management all the way down to busboy openings he hopes will give him a foot in the door.
He’s had a few interviews but no job offers. While he believes the economy has played the largest role in his inability to land a job, he also suspects that his years of experience may be hurting his prospects.
“I feel that the employers were willing to hire someone basically half my age,” he said.
(snip)
Higher salaries, other factors
Experts say there are a number of reasons that older people may have a harder time finding work.
Older workers may be more experienced but less knowledgeable in the latest trends or technology skills. Employers also may be worried about spending time and money investing in workers who might leave for a better position or simply retire sooner than younger workers. A worker who is 55 might command a higher salary than someone a decade or two younger but not have much more experience in pertinent areas.
The current economy, in which hundreds of candidates apply for any job opening, also is giving employers the luxury of being extremely picky.
READ MORE ABOUT OLDER WORKERS FINDING JOBS...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37448682/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy
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