by KYW's Michelle Durham
Bureau of Labor Statistics data show that those age 45 and over face a longer time on the unemployment rolls then their younger counterparts.
What can people in this age group do to enhance their chances of landing another job? Two local experts offer lots of advice.
Jen Pffiefer and Michelle Cresta of CPO Recruiting Group Partners in Horsham, Pa. are in the business of find people jobs. Cresta says it all starts some computer basics:
"I think they first need to save their résumé in (Microsoft) Word (format) under their name. If it's Joe Smith, then it should be 'Joe Smith.doc.' And then they should have a separate e-mail account for their job search."
Then, Pffiefer advises, take it one step further:
"Get yourself online, educated with online tools, resources, and social media."
And how do you break through that impenetrable wall of the HR office?
"If there's a job you're interested in, tweak your résumé. Pull out the pieces that are really applicable. They really don't need to know you cleaned the office kitchen if the job is research and analytical."
She says that one more advanced strategy is self-branding:
"If you've been in the industryfor 20-30 years, I think you should definitely consider branding yourself -- like 'Michelle Smith, senior implementer on systems used by retail or pharmaceutical organizations' -- something that will state what you're expertise is and who you are serving."
For more information, listen to the podcast, above left.
(File photo: unemployed wait in line to enter job fair)
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