Fit at fifty

YOUR GROWN-UP kids are not interested in taking over your business. You want to break free from the monotony of the job you've been doing for decades.

At the end of a sabbatical year, you feel refreshed enough to handle a new job. You might be thinking of consulting as an option so that you can devote some time to other rewarding pursuits.

Whatever the situation, a mid-life career transition is a difficult move, more so because age is no longer a plus point like it was when you landed your first job. As one gets older it becomes increasingly difficult to secure a job and keep it in the face of competition from younger and more qualified individuals ready to work for a smaller pay packet.

The switch may be tough but it is definitely not impossible. Even if age-bias does exist, you can use the experience in your functional area to work for you!

Artless demeanour

``Working with Mr. Pratap is a treat. His youthful attitude makes everyone forget his 50-odd summers'', says Suraj who is half his age. Being young-at-heart is a state of mind that will endear you to others, especially if you a working in a field where there is a majority of youngsters. Learn to preserve youthfulness in conversation even if you cannot do much about your ageing appearance. Try not to get so set in your ways that you begin to turn your nose up on everything modern or be condescending in your attitude.

Cool strategies

To find a place in today's competitive market you need to strategise and plan your moves carefully. Study the field you want to move into. It shouldn't be an industry that is too fast paced or one that is open exclusively for young professionals. Evaluate your skills and your contemporary knowledge of the industry. Have a couple of options in mind so that you don't bank solely on one single plan.

Differentiate between your functional skills and additional skills. Also make a mention of the computer-related skills you possess. People management skills, communication skills and other related attributes that could also be highlighted.

Outfit misfit?

What you wear does count! It may have been accepted in your previous set-up to be careless about you appearance. Dress better than your best- the first impression you make should be pleasing and attractive, not drab and old fashioned. Treat yourself to a new shirt and tie, wear well-polished shoes, trim your beard if you keep one and colour your hair if you want to. Remember that it always feels good to look younger and that too much of grey may put you at a little disadvantage.

`I can get the job' attitude

Don't go to an interview feeling like a victim. Make a realistic estimate of your skills, and if you feel that they match up then put your skills and experience up for sale. Emphasise your strengths and accomplishments. Work on your resume and see that you give it a face- lift.

Reconnect

Link up with your former subordinates who respect and admire you and are running businesses of their own. They may request you to serve on their advisory board. Accept. This will give you better visibility-and help you in networking.

Be the answer

You can also opt to work for a company on a contract basis or as a freelancer. Consulting gives you time to work at your own pace and in your own surroundings.

There are many people who often cash on their hobbies, and making them pay. It could be painting, designing, or writing. It could also be getting involved in a local NGO, one you always wanted to associate with.

Remember, unless age hampers your productivity, it doesn't really make a difference. Beginning your career anew can be a challenge. You can have a successful career even after you are fifty!

ARCHANA JAYAKAR

archana.hyd@careercommunity.co.in