Second Chances Are For Everyone

Janice wrote in from Mumbai and what she shared remains stuck in my head because the words were bright and alive not resigned or fearful. She had  lived through a thriving corporate career and was now alone and retired-from work, but definitely not from life “I am looking to do more work - writing, training, consulting anything, even willing to act in a television serial!’’ That attitude brought a smile to my face. There are so many retired women who write in looking for options and some who may never have worked but still want a second chance. Your 50’s and 60’s can be a time for taking stock and reviving interests and passions that were once set aside. You might want to switch your attention to doing better by volunteering. Or you could spin a hobby into a small business. Either way there are options, which are not for the asking but for taking. It maybe an uphill struggle that requires tenacity and flexibility, but it is definitely not a dead end, because everyone deserves a second chance. Here are a few things you can focus on to get restarted

Remain Relevant

Ensure you are keeping up with the advances in computer technology and social media trends. Take a training course if required. If at home, get someone to help you get started. Just don’t, fade into the background or remain capped in ignorance - learn, unlearn and relearn. Make a list of the reasons you're doing this along with the goals you're trying to achieve. You may be seeking more work-life balance, in which case you don’t want to transition into something with long hours, or you could shift to part-time work or telecommuting. You could pursue education in a new field to satisfy long-held interests.

Try New Things

For all their reliability and professionalism, older workers are often seen as more inflexible and less willing to try new things than their younger counterparts. Beat this thinking and perception. Consider courses, to learn newer technologies or even study a new field. Get started at social networking, such as LinkedIn and Twitter, to keep up to date in the industry and network. The most inspiring young old lady I know, learns a new skill every year and her zest for life led to her being offered a consulting position as a Yoga therapist at her husband’s firm. Networking can also play a key role for an unemployed woman, in her 50s or 60s, for landing a new job.

Reset Expectations

Women in their 50’s may have to reset expectations on what employment means to them. Before trying to find a job, make an honest assessment of your strengths and weaknesses as well as your likes and dislikes. Chances are good that at age 50 you've gained much experience and knowledge that employers value far more than relative youth. Also, one key to finding a job when you're 50 or older is to match your skills to careers with good growth opportunities. In addition to a decreased salary, some people may find they need to work in contract positions or part-time. Work from home or flexible alternatives are attractive options. Be willing to tweak and rework your skills, for eg:- financial analysis to Finance writing.

Focus on Finances

Most women leave Financial Planning to their spouses. It is never too late to get educated on financial management and financial investment. I remember a lady well into her sixties remarked to me, “I learnt at 60 that money grows money. I wish someone had told me that 20 years ago but I still made the best of that advice.’’ Many women take time out from the workforce at some time in their careers to focus on family. This can often leave them struggling to make up a deficit in pay scale compared with similarly qualified men. Be assertive in seeking salary increases. As you get closer to retirement, get your financial house in order.

Appearance Counts

It may be unfair, but appearance really counts. As you get older you sometimes fail to re-adapt your style for your advancing years. If you want people, employers and contacts to take you seriously, ensure that you are projecting the professional image you want. Have your haircut in a new style, take advice on makeover techniques for your build and revamp your wardrobe. Your dressing style sends signals to potential employers as well.

Above all learn to love and enjoy what you do. While some people may feel as if they don't have the skills or energy to offer employers, getting a second chance  is more about organization, dedication  and the right mindset. After all, age is all in the mind. And second chances are for getting more from life.