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The Work Environment
- The work environment means all the physical and non-physical things around you in your job. It includes people, technology, work and management styles, as well as things like lighting, air quality and the physical space in which you work.
What this means for the Older Worker
- There are now more service jobs in existence than traditional jobs in factories, the fishing industry, farming, or forestry.
- Technology has become essential in almost all work places. Everyone from truck drivers to store clerks now uses computerized equipment in their daily work. Computers are no longer found only in offices.
- The workforce employs more women and persons of minority that ever before.
Do you sometimes feel left behind by the all the changes in the work environment and the technology around you? It requires adaptability, flexibility and an attitude shift to find opportunity in these changes.
The many changes in the work environment mean that you may be required to leave your comfort zone, alter long held assumptions, and be open to change. It's hard for us to change what's worked so well for us in the past - even if it no longer works as well now.
The impact of these changes can affect us by making us uncomfortable. We no longer recognize what should or should not be done and that may also make us feel somewhat dense. Reframing our experiences in a positive way, we need to see these changes as challenges--normal life challenges that have always demanded that we keep an open mind and give things a try.
Changes in the Work Environment
Respect
In the workplace thirty or more years ago, some of the standards of behaviour that are common now did not exist. Sexist, racist and homophobic comments or jokes are no longer tolerated. Harassment of others is also an issue with the potential for serious penalties. Everyone is required to conduct themselves appropriately. Respect is the key-you don't have to agree with what offends you or makes you uncomfortable but you do have to respect the opinions and lifestyles of others.
A Younger Boss
One of the facts of life for you as an Older Worker is that you will very likely work for a boss who is much younger than you. This can present challenges for both; a younger boss may feel threatened by an Older Worker's experience, or an Older Worker may resent a younger boss. Neither position is comfortable. A respectful open-minded approach is required on both sides. A younger boss offers energy and considerable experience with current technology, while the Older Worker offers life and work experience, the potential to mentor others, and an understanding of work ethics. Both have significant assets to bring to the workplace relationship.
Diversity
There are now many more women in all fields and jobs, even those traditionally done only by men. Immigrant workers are also an ever increasing part of the workforce. Much has been done recently to bring people with disabilities into the workforce and to accommodate their special needs. All of these factors contribute to a very different and much more interesting workforce. It's clear that what matters is what you can do for an employer, not your gender, the colour of your skin or what disability challenges you face. The benefits of adapting to these changes in the workplace far out-weigh what initial discomfort you may feel simply because this is outside the range of your experience.
Literacy
Fewer low skilled jobs are available every year. All jobs now require good basic knowledge of reading, writing and math. The better the job and pay, the higher level of these essential skills will be needed as well as additional and on-going training.
Technology
Computers have become essential tools in the 21st century workplace. Many Older Workers have not needed to know how to use a computer in previous jobs. Learning how to use one now will give you an advantage in your job search. An Older Worker with life and work experience and who is comfortable with and knowledgeable about computers is an asset in any workplace.
Because you didn't grow up using a computer you may fear them. The computer appears to be so complicated, how can you ever learn how to use one? Computers now are not what they were when first introduced. You no longer need to know how it works to use one effectively. It's a machine that requires you to type and push a few buttons. It won't bite your hand if something goes wrong. To use a computer you don't have to become a computer expert. Remember there's help, it is in your best interests to learn and the very young are usually quite willing to show you what needs to be done. Classes are available through most local recreation departments, the community college or through private tutors. You've learned to run much more difficult and complex machinery in your day!
Job Applications and Targeted Résumés
The job search in the 21st century can be very frustrating if you don't know what you need to do to make a successful job application. It requires a lot more work now than in the days when you simply dropped in on the foreman or business owner, had a brief chat, and ended up with a job. Like so many things in life, knowing what you don't know is a good first step. Assume that the job application has changed and then look for help to understand the new process.
Employers are interested in knowing about the skills you have to offer them. You may never have had to write a résumé, or prepare one that clearly identifies your skills, abilities, and relevant personal attributes. Help is available at your local Job or Career Resource Centre or on the following websites:
http://resume.monster.ca/
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/career/resume.html
The other important thing to realize is that having one résumé to send out for every job that interests you is unlikely to land you an interview. Each résumé must be targeted to the position for which you're applying. This is achieved by clearly listing skills you have to offer for that job. That may mean leaving out some skills that don't apply or moving other skills further up the list. Employers are less interested in where you've been (your work history) than in what you can do for them today.
A cover letter that summarizes your skills, personal attributes and other important aspects will encourage the employer to read your résumé for more detail and is a necessary part in targeting your résumés. It's your chance to talk to the prospective employer and let them know why you're a great candidate for the job.
Gone are the days when every résumé got a response. Now you'll only hear from the employer if you have made the short list and are being considered for the job. Be prepared to wait.
Once you land an interview you have to wait again and it is unlikely you will hear anything further if you don't get the job. You don't have to like it, but it is a reality in an environment where employers must sift through hundreds of résumés for every position they need to fill.
Things to think about
- The work environment has changed significantly in the last thirty years. Your best response to this is to be as adaptable and open as possible.
- Technology is not going to go away so perhaps you could consider learning more about it. You may find that you like using the computer and that learning to use it will give a boost to your confidence.
- Yes, the job application process has changed, but you have a lot to offer so it's worth taking the time to write targeted résumés and cover letters that reflect your experiences and transferable skills.
Things to do
- Make a list of your skills and experience and use this to create a targeted résumé that stresses a combination of skills and experience related to the job for which you are applying.
- Take a computer class. You'll find many others in that class who are at the same skill level as you are and you'll feel right at home.
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