Are Women Over 50 Getting Jobs?

Introduction

The Over 50 Club

Amazingly, a large number of women over 50 are getting jobs. Statistics are favorable for this labor sector and the occupational outlook continues to increase as women are becoming more accepted in the workforce.

Overall Statistics

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics most recent metrics (2012), of women aged 50-54, 74.3 percent are considered part of the civilian labor force. Of that 74.3 percent, 69.6 are employed. Those aged 55-64 that are a part of the civilian labor force (59.5 percent) 55.9 maintained their employment. These statistics show that women over 50 in U.S. labor force are getting and keeping jobs. The fact is, however, that the US has fallen far behind in efforts to make women comfortable in the work force and continues to lag behind the rest of the world in its efforts to assure equal pay for equal work.

Benefits of Being a Woman Over 50 and in the Job Market

Employers are more likely to hire a woman who has fewer children at home and more time to dedicate to the job. A woman who is technically savvy, in good health and physical shape, and who has made continued to train in her field of expertise has a better opportunity for success. While sad, it is true that anyone over 50 is going to find it more difficult to find work. However, women over 50 who have kept up with innovations in business and technology are more likely to find work than those who have failed to learn new skills. Employers know that people in this demographic are more likely to have years of experience and they will benefit by not having to spend so much time training. A woman in this age bracket will also be more likely to stay with the job for longer and be less costly to than a man in the same position. (There is still an overall average pay discrepancy of about 18% between men and women with the same skills sets and professional levels.)

Benefits of Higher Education for Women Over 50 Seeking Career Advancement

This is a good time in a woman's life to advance her education through alternative learning opportunities, such as online Master's and Doctorate programs. Many educational institutions offer flexible learning programs that allow a woman to continue her education while working full-time. Many women are in a position to spend more time on educational activities at this age and employers are more likely to hire someone who is prepared to take on the challenge of additional training in order to enhance her value to the organization.

The First Impression Always Counts

As part of the job search process, it's good to take a look at your overall personal style and presentation. Make sure your hair and fashion styles are up to date. Don't overdress for the interview. Anxiety is always a bad thing. Remember, it's likely that the person you're interviewing with doesn't like the process any more than you do. Be friendly, professional, and show the hiring manager how you will be of more value than someone with less experience.

Key Concepts

• Women over 50
• Women in Labor force
• over 50 jobs

References

• Women in the Labor Force: A Databook
  [ http://www.bls.gov/cps/wlf-databook-2012.pdf ]
• The US gets Left Behind When it Comes to Working Women
  [ http://www.forbes.com/sites/brycecovert/2013/01/16/the-u-s-gets-left-behind-when-it-comes-to-working-women/ ]

Resources (Further Reading)

• 10 Surprising Statistics on Women in the Workplace
  [ http://www.collegetimes.tv/10-surprising-statistics-on-women-in-the-workplace/ ]
• Statistical Overview of Women in the Workplace
  [ http://www.catalyst.org/knowledge/statistical-overview-women-workplace ]
• Women in the Workforce
  [ http://www.census.gov/newsroom/pdf/women_workforce_slides.pdf ]