JAMES HUNTINGTON '07 PH.D. IN APPLIED MANAGEMENT AND DECISION SCIENCES

In the midst of career uncertainty, James Huntington achieved a lifelong goal: He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences with a specialization in Leadership and Organizational Change. His dissertation, Prospects for Increased Post 65 Career Employment for the Baby Boom Generation, reveals a vibrant career forecast for the baby boom generation, the first of whom are fast approaching their mid-60s. Just as boomers have reshaped all of their passages through life, they are redefining the parameters of retirement and searching for ways they can continue to make a difference in the world. Here, Huntington shares encouraging findings if you are preparing to reinvent your career later in life.

Realize that Age Discrimination is a Myth. Those 50 and older can take heart. It is never too late to start a new career, and pursuing another career for 20 or 30 more years is far from out of the question. According to AARP, 6 percent of older workers recently surveyed are thinking of making a big career change. To prepare for that change, identify what you want in a new position, even make a list of pros and cons about the position. Take time to think about the job qualifications and how your years of experience best position you to meet those demands.

Recognize that Employers Want Older Applicants. My dissertation’s survey of human resources professionals and older potential employees in Florida found that “the box” as we know it is disappearing. We are in the midst of a withering away of age-based identities. There was no evidence of age discrimination and no correlation between industry type and attitude toward older workers. One of the most significant findings was that a large majority of surveyed employers cited a lack of older applicants for career positions, while more than one-third of potential older employees were not aware of opportunities or were not encouraged to pursue them.

Begin Networking. Even if your career transition is in the distant future, it is never too early to start talking to professionals in the field. Develop support systems that effectively connect you with employers. The longer you have been in the work world, the more people you will know to contact, but don’t forget informal networks such as walking clubs or book groups. Use technology to assist in your search by accessing professional networking sites like LinkedIn, Career Change Network, and Networking for Professionals.

Apply, Apply, Apply. Do not fear applying for positions you find interesting. Clearly, the experience you have acquired throughout your career can transfer to many positions in today’s market.

Be Direct about the Terms of the Job. If you need variable hours, telecommuting opportunities, or extended vacation time, be honest with your potential employer. Approach your interview with confidence and be clear about your requirements.

Expect to Work Longer. A number of factors make continued employment necessary and desirable for boomers. Because many baby boomers are poor savers, they are unable to retire at age 65 while continuing to maintain their current lifestyles. At the same time, life expectancy continues to increase, which means many older Americans will be willing and able to work longer in life. Unlike previous generations, people now reach significant milestones, such as marriage or the birth of children, at variable ages. The end result: People begin, change, restart, and end careers at different points in their lives, which creates more opportunities for those in their 50s and beyond.

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