Resources - Mature Market Headlines

Older Workers Tout their Experience

The Statesman Journal, 8/4/09

Abstract:

Keizer resident Judy Lay, 64, has become adept at creating store displays and sorting new merchandise — skills that she hopes to carry with her when she leaves her temporary stint at One Fair World in downtown Salem and look for a permanent job.

"It was all new to me," Lay said. "It's a great shop — everything's fair trade. That's the best part."

In a weak and competitive job market, Lay hopes that the on-the-job training she receives through the nonprofit Easter Seals will provide her with an edge — she previously worked as a hostess and cashier, but mostly just helped her husband with his business.

"Who would have thought there was anything that helped you get into the work force," Lay said.

Oregon's unemployment rate — the third highest in the U.S. — makes it difficult for anyone to get a job.

But older, jobless workers should not perceive their age as a barrier, advocates say. Rather, they should demonstrate that their years of experience and skills can give them an edge over younger workers. At the same time, advocates are urging employers to consider older workers as viable job candidates and are marketing their qualifications: loyalty to the job, maturity and work ethic.

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