Jobless after 50

Do you love clothes, electronics, furniture, jewelry, cosmetics? A job in retail may be perfect for you. Many retail positions are part time, do not require special education and age is not typically a major consideration. Part time retail jobs can provide some income for the unemployed and, if you are in survival mode, this can be extremely important. The hours are generally flexible which provides time for continued job hunting or, perhaps, a second part time job.

While working in retail, communication and sales skills can be developed and strengthened. These are skills that will serve you well in any job. Another advantage of working in retail is the employee discount; this can provide significant savings. Another advantage to a part time job in any industry is the possibility that it can lead to a full time position. Depending on experience, education and goals, you may be able to move up to a management position. And there seems to be something magic about looking for a job while you are employed. It seems to increase your chance of receiving another job offer.

Frequently hobbies or special interests provide opportunities for a career change. For those with a serious interest in photography and a flare for creating unique photos, do some research to determine which niche in photography needs your special talent. You can also search for freelance photography work on the Internet. Consider setting up a web page where you can display, market and sell your photos or schedule appointments for portraits or weddings. You might want to consider part time work for a photographer while you build a portfolio of your work. This is a great way to learn the business side of photography.

Are you skilled in carpentry or woodworking? This is an excellent field with numerous options. If this is your hobby, you probably have most of the necessary tools. Anyone with this skill set can do cabinetry work, build custom furniture, wooden toys, or wooden signs for businesses. The list goes on and on.

Think about combining a hobby, a special interest and skills to make a career change. For example, has golf been your passion and hobby for years? Is your golf game pretty darn good? How about providing golf lessons or look for work in a store that sells equipment and supplies to golfers.

In the current job market, everyone needs as many resources and tools as possible. Finding a job in this economy is not easy for anyone. New college grads face the experience issue - they have none! Age can be a factor because you're too young or too old. Unfortunately, in some industries "old" is defined as over 50. This doesn't mean you won't find a job and it doesn't mean you can't change careers, but it does require all the ammunition you can find. Prepare yourself with good information, take a healthy dose of self-confidence and then move forward.