Boost Your Job Search with Tech Skills Upgrade: Expert Advice for Over 50s
For the 50+ cohort, the loss of a job can cause more stress because of the changing technical landscape. For people who have been at their companies for 20-plus years using the same platforms everyday, going out into the rest of the world can be intimidating at first.
Many interviews now are held online, so it is very important to navigate some of the more often used meeting platforms which are Zoom and Google meet. At least, you should know how to change your name, blur your background, turn on and off your microphone and video. These can be found in settings. You should also know how to share your screen and that can be found at the bottom of the screen, by the button to put your “hand up” during a call. Tutorials for this can be found on YouTube. It is best to be prepared ahead of time.
Here are 10 more ways you can upgrade your tech skills for a job search:
1. Take Online Courses and Certifications
Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer courses in digital literacy, software applications, and emerging technologies. Certifications in areas like project management, data analysis, or digital marketing can boost resumes.
2. Attend Local Tech Workshops and Classes
Community centers, libraries, and adult education programs often offer in-person or hybrid workshops on digital skills like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and other essential tools.
3. Join Social Media and Networking Sites
Getting comfortable with LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific platforms can help in job hunting. Understanding how to create a professional profile, engage with content, and network online is crucial.
4. Explore Free Digital Literacy Resources
Websites like GCFGlobal and TechBoomers offer free tutorials on basic to intermediate tech skills, covering everything from internet safety to using productivity software.
5. Take part in Tech Meetups and Webinars
Networking groups and professional associations often host free webinars and virtual meetups focused on tech trends, job search strategies, and skills development for older professionals.
6. Practice Using Modern Office Tools
Mastering tools like Google Workspace, Slack, Zoom, and Trello is vital in today’s remote work environment. Practice by collaborating on small projects or volunteering to manage tasks for community groups.
7. Update Resume and Online Profiles with Tech Keywords
Learn how to use applicant tracking systems (ATS) by incorporating tech-related keywords into resumes and profiles. This also includes knowing how to format documents for better readability by these systems.
8. Leverage YouTube Tutorials
YouTube offers countless video tutorials on every imaginable tech topic. From learning Excel tricks to understanding AI basics, this is a convenient way to upskill at your own pace.
9. Join Online Tech Communities
Participating in forums like Reddit, Stack Overflow, or specialized Facebook groups can help with tech problem-solving and staying updated on new tools relevant to your industry.
10. Seek Mentorship from Younger Colleagues or Tech-Savvy Peers
Partnering with younger colleagues or digitally adept friends can be mutually beneficial. You can exchange knowledge on industry experience while gaining tech insights in return.
Check out our other blogs on career transitions and coping with the emotional side of job transitions. Be sure to sign up for our email list to get a free copy of our Top 10 Things to do when Downsized and Supportive Reading Resources for Transitions. As always, please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or thoughts at support@mindfuljobalignment.com. We’d love to hear from you!
By: Diana C. Stephens, PhD