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Boomers find job market unfriendly

News Day (Australia) , 9/24/09

Abstract:

Baby boomers, the workacholic generation, known for multi-taskers and corporate masters of the universe, now fear being marginalized in the job market.

More than a third believe that if they lost their job they would have a hard time finding a comparable one in this challenging environment, according to a poll by ThirdAge.com., a media, marketing and consumer-research company that focuses on Boomers and other aging mid-lifers.

And many blame the difficulty of becoming re-employed on ageism: An overwhelming majority (79 percent), believe it is more difficult for those over 50 to find employment.

“Many employers are missing the boat in not considering that [older workers] have a great deal to offer in terms of their years of experience, willingness to acquire new skills and a historically strong work ethic,” said Sharon Whitely, ThirdAge chief executive.”

A significant percentage (18 percent) of boomers believe it’s so important to look younger that they would dye their hair just to gain an edge.

But rusty skills also play a part in the job-prospect pessimism. Almost half of the Boomers (46 percent) believe they would need new or enhanced skills to compete in today’s job market.

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