Looking For Work After 50

Many older workers are struggling to land on their feet after a layoff and having to settle for entry-level jobs. Some are starting their own business. If you're older than age 50, and looking for work for the first time in several years, know where to go for help because the job search process has changed (CNNMoney.com July 22).

Compounding the problem is a growing pool of older workers. According to AARP, one of six workers older than 65 is in the work force, compared with one of 10 in 1985.

If you're older than 50 and looking for work, be prepared to use new technology, social networking sites, virtual career fairs, advice blogs and more. Check out these resources:

• LinkedIn. Currently more than 40 million professionals use this site to network, get advice, and connect with recruiters.
• Careerbuilder.com. Look for local jobs, post your résumé, and get tips and advice about staying focused, organized, and flexible.
• Retirementjobs.com, yourencore.com (for scientists and engineers) and retiredbrains.com contain listings and databases for job seekers older than 50. Some of these sites may charge a fee.
• The Five O'Clock Club. For a $49 membership fee, you receive outplacement and career counseling. Visit fiveoclockclub.com for details.
• SCORE. More than 10,000 experienced volunteers help train and counsel small-business operators. Visit sba.gov for details.
• Entrepreneur.com. This site contains information for starting and growing your own business.
• aarp.org/money/personal/real_relief_aarp/. Find information about how to make ends meet while you're unemployed, how to find a job, and where to go for help with medicare and Social Security programs.

One upside to the down economy: More Americans are volunteering. Career counselors stress the benefits, such as broadening your résumé, filling unemployed hours with meaningful work, and making contacts in the community which may lead to full-time, paid positions.