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10 Ways to Overcome Ageism While Job Hunting During Retirement

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Free Your Money: Strategies for Keeping Your Money In The Best Place Possible - ReadWrite


It’s never too late to start a new job. It’s estimated that, on average, a typical American worker now has more than ten jobs over the course of their lifetime. But unfortunately, whether you’re inspired to enter a new field or want a new job after you retire, one of the biggest obstacles to re-entering the workforce can be ageism.

This type of discrimination involves treating an applicant less favorably because of their age. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) forbids age discrimination against people aged 40 or older. Yet, in reality, applicant age often affects employment opportunities because many recruiters and hiring managers still struggle with unconscious biases related to older workers.

Ageism in the modern workforce

Older people face stereotypes about their competency or intentions when entering the workforce. According to a recent AARP study, 90% of people pre-maturely pressured into retirement never make as much money again if they re-enter the workforce.

The same study found that 3 out of 5 older workers have experienced or seen age discrimination in the workplace. In addition, almost 25% of team members age 45 and older have heard negative comments about their age from coworkers or supervisors. And the large majority of these older workers anticipate age discrimination being a hurdle in finding a new job.

Effects of ageism go beyond money. For example, studies show that patronizing language or speaking loudly at older adults can adversely affect them psychologically or even make them less confident in their abilities.

So how do you confront ageism in the workplace, mainly when it occurs implicitly rather than out in the open? Here are ten tools for combating ageism while looking for work after retirement.

1. Highlight your past experience

One of the biggest strengths of older applicants is the more significant number of working years they bring to the table. Therefore, when considering a potential job, think about the ideas you can give to a possible employer that utilizes your experience and addresses their problems.

Many things in the workplace can only be learned through experience. Highlighting the work you’ve done in the past is one of the best ways to play to your strengths. Instead of feeling insecure about the amount of time you’ve worked or how long it’s been since you worked last, be proud of your past accomplishments and put the skills they demonstrate on display.

2. Stay up-to-date on the world of work

When it comes to the modern workplace, things innovate rapidly and frequently. Industry trends, new technologies, and best practices all change rapidly. So staying knowledgeable on what’s relevant in the workplace is crucial when applying for a new job.

Technology, in particular, tends to change quickly. So go out of your way to learn the newest and latest relevant technologies, and you’ll set yourself up for success. Not only does this prepare you to do an exceptional job, but it shows potential employers that you’re passionate and interested in your field.

Regardless of when you were last officially employed, you want to demonstrate that you’re prepared to jump into the modern office. It’s one of the best ways to combat presumptions about older applicants and instill confidence in a potential employer.

3. Present your work history as a cohesive career story

Present your work history as a cohesive story no matter where or when you’ve worked. It demonstrates why you make sense for a position. Take the time to review your experience and think critically about the skills you’ve acquired over time. How does this position fit your history and skills? You want to show the potential employer when you apply or interview. Framing the position as a natural progression for your career should make your application much more robust.

4. Stay encouraged

Confidence can be contagious; the more sure you are of yourself, the more confident a potential employer may feel about you. Keep in mind that while some people believe outdated or inaccurate stereotypes, data indicate that older workers are more productive, educated, and loyal than younger workers. Experienced, knowledgeable professionals who do the hiring should know this.

Regardless of past experiences or insecurities, don’t get discouraged. Ageism is illegal and is increasingly frowned upon. Instead, maintain a good attitude throughout the job search and keep your head held high, regardless of obstacles you encounter.

5. Keep your resume updated and be intentional with your cover letter

A resume or cover letter is the first thing a potential employer will see from you. Take the time to update your resume and be intentional with the cover letter. It could make or break a job opportunity.

Highlight your strengths, and don’t hesitate to show how they will benefit the company you’re applying to — the more relevant experience you can mention, the better. Your resume represents you on paper so make sure it’s something you’re proud of. When writing a cover letter, consider how your unique career story makes you suitable for the job and do your best to express an eagerness toward the work.

6. Network

Connecting with other professionals at events in your area is a wonderful way to both find job opportunities and meet people doing similar work. You never know when a contact will meet someone looking for workers or need work done themselves.

Focus on building lasting relationships — particularly (if possible) with people more experienced than you. Additionally, networking is an effective way to learn what’s relevant in the field you’re trying to enter. Finally, it can help you build confidence as you continue to meet people and present yourself as a competent worker.

7. Don’t give up

No matter your age, finding work in the modern job market is no easy task. Remind yourself it’s a process, and your first interview most likely won’t be your last. There are many reasons why someone won’t get hired for a job.

Even if you feel self-conscious about your age or experience, do your best to portray confidence in yourself. Then, persist through any rejection and trust that the right job will come along for you, so long as you don’t stop looking for it.

8. Be proactive

The best way for you to find a job is to be proactive while looking for one. A large part of successfully finding work has to do with your initiative. Don’t wait for someone to contact you.

Reach out to people who may have a possible opportunity for you and be adamant about following up. Don’t hesitate to pursue more than one opportunity at once and cast your net as wide as possible. If you go out there and search for what you want, you can eventually find it.

9. Interview prep

While it may feel silly, practice answering interview questions, which helps build confidence in articulating your strengths and goals. Going over common questions is an excellent place to start during a job search, especially if it’s been some time since your last interview.

Exploring potential questions can help you clarify where you may need more work and effort. Don’t hesitate to ask a friend to role-play an interview with you or answer questions looking in the mirror. The more prepared you can be, the better.

Take the steps

Returning to the everyday work world during retirement is a challenging venture in the modern workplace. Though age discrimination may not always be easy to spot, it is a reality for most older people seeking employment. However, while it may feel like the odds are stacked against you, there are steps you can take and tools you can use to confront ageism-related obstacles.

The most important thing to remember is that you’re a competent and capable worker with a lot to offer. The way you see yourself influences how potential employers assess you. The more positivity and initiative you bring to the table, the better.

Continue to pursue your goals, regardless of what others think you are capable of. Forget about what anyone else thinks if you need to. You’re looking for work again to help improve yourself, not impress others. Trust your experience and capabilities; don’t be afraid to get out there. Your perfect job is waiting.

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Featured Image Credit: Photo by Ron Lach; Pexels; Thank you!

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Fintech Kennek raises $12.5M seed round to digitize lending

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Google eyed for $2 billion Anthropic deal after major Amazon play


London-based fintech startup Kennek has raised $12.5 million in seed funding to expand its lending operating system.

According to an Oct. 10 tech.eu report, the round was led by HV Capital and included participation from Dutch Founders Fund, AlbionVC, FFVC, Plug & Play Ventures, and Syndicate One. Kennek offers software-as-a-service tools to help non-bank lenders streamline their operations using open banking, open finance, and payments.

The platform aims to automate time-consuming manual tasks and consolidate fragmented data to simplify lending. Xavier De Pauw, founder of Kennek said:

“Until kennek, lenders had to devote countless hours to menial operational tasks and deal with jumbled and hard-coded data – which makes every other part of lending a headache. As former lenders ourselves, we lived and breathed these frustrations, and built kennek to make them a thing of the past.”

The company said the latest funding round was oversubscribed and closed quickly despite the challenging fundraising environment. The new capital will be used to expand Kennek’s engineering team and strengthen its market position in the UK while exploring expansion into other European markets. Barbod Namini, Partner at lead investor HV Capital, commented on the investment:

“Kennek has developed an ambitious and genuinely unique proposition which we think can be the foundation of the entire alternative lending space. […] It is a complicated market and a solution that brings together all information and stakeholders onto a single platform is highly compelling for both lenders & the ecosystem as a whole.”

The fintech lending space has grown rapidly in recent years, but many lenders still rely on legacy systems and manual processes that limit efficiency and scalability. Kennek aims to leverage open banking and data integration to provide lenders with a more streamlined, automated lending experience.

The seed funding will allow the London-based startup to continue developing its platform and expanding its team to meet demand from non-bank lenders looking to digitize operations. Kennek’s focus on the UK and Europe also comes amid rising adoption of open banking and open finance in the regions.

Featured Image Credit: Photo from Kennek.io; Thank you!

Radek Zielinski

Radek Zielinski is an experienced technology and financial journalist with a passion for cybersecurity and futurology.

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Fortune 500’s race for generative AI breakthroughs

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Deanna Ritchie


As excitement around generative AI grows, Fortune 500 companies, including Goldman Sachs, are carefully examining the possible applications of this technology. A recent survey of U.S. executives indicated that 60% believe generative AI will substantially impact their businesses in the long term. However, they anticipate a one to two-year timeframe before implementing their initial solutions. This optimism stems from the potential of generative AI to revolutionize various aspects of businesses, from enhancing customer experiences to optimizing internal processes. In the short term, companies will likely focus on pilot projects and experimentation, gradually integrating generative AI into their operations as they witness its positive influence on efficiency and profitability.

Goldman Sachs’ Cautious Approach to Implementing Generative AI

In a recent interview, Goldman Sachs CIO Marco Argenti revealed that the firm has not yet implemented any generative AI use cases. Instead, the company focuses on experimentation and setting high standards before adopting the technology. Argenti recognized the desire for outcomes in areas like developer and operational efficiency but emphasized ensuring precision before putting experimental AI use cases into production.

According to Argenti, striking the right balance between driving innovation and maintaining accuracy is crucial for successfully integrating generative AI within the firm. Goldman Sachs intends to continue exploring this emerging technology’s potential benefits and applications while diligently assessing risks to ensure it meets the company’s stringent quality standards.

One possible application for Goldman Sachs is in software development, where the company has observed a 20-40% productivity increase during its trials. The goal is for 1,000 developers to utilize generative AI tools by year’s end. However, Argenti emphasized that a well-defined expectation of return on investment is necessary before fully integrating generative AI into production.

To achieve this, the company plans to implement a systematic and strategic approach to adopting generative AI, ensuring that it complements and enhances the skills of its developers. Additionally, Goldman Sachs intends to evaluate the long-term impact of generative AI on their software development processes and the overall quality of the applications being developed.

Goldman Sachs’ approach to AI implementation goes beyond merely executing models. The firm has created a platform encompassing technical, legal, and compliance assessments to filter out improper content and keep track of all interactions. This comprehensive system ensures seamless integration of artificial intelligence in operations while adhering to regulatory standards and maintaining client confidentiality. Moreover, the platform continuously improves and adapts its algorithms, allowing Goldman Sachs to stay at the forefront of technology and offer its clients the most efficient and secure services.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Google DeepMind; Pexels; Thank you!

Deanna Ritchie

Managing Editor at ReadWrite

Deanna is the Managing Editor at ReadWrite. Previously she worked as the Editor in Chief for Startup Grind and has over 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.

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UK seizes web3 opportunity simplifying crypto regulations

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Deanna Ritchie


As Web3 companies increasingly consider leaving the United States due to regulatory ambiguity, the United Kingdom must simplify its cryptocurrency regulations to attract these businesses. The conservative think tank Policy Exchange recently released a report detailing ten suggestions for improving Web3 regulation in the country. Among the recommendations are reducing liability for token holders in decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) and encouraging the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to adopt alternative Know Your Customer (KYC) methodologies, such as digital identities and blockchain analytics tools. These suggestions aim to position the UK as a hub for Web3 innovation and attract blockchain-based businesses looking for a more conducive regulatory environment.

Streamlining Cryptocurrency Regulations for Innovation

To make it easier for emerging Web3 companies to navigate existing legal frameworks and contribute to the UK’s digital economy growth, the government must streamline cryptocurrency regulations and adopt forward-looking approaches. By making the regulatory landscape clear and straightforward, the UK can create an environment that fosters innovation, growth, and competitiveness in the global fintech industry.

The Policy Exchange report also recommends not weakening self-hosted wallets or treating proof-of-stake (PoS) services as financial services. This approach aims to protect the fundamental principles of decentralization and user autonomy while strongly emphasizing security and regulatory compliance. By doing so, the UK can nurture an environment that encourages innovation and the continued growth of blockchain technology.

Despite recent strict measures by UK authorities, such as His Majesty’s Treasury and the FCA, toward the digital assets sector, the proposed changes in the Policy Exchange report strive to make the UK a more attractive location for Web3 enterprises. By adopting these suggestions, the UK can demonstrate its commitment to fostering innovation in the rapidly evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency industries while ensuring a robust and transparent regulatory environment.

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding cryptocurrency regulations in various countries has prompted Web3 companies to explore alternative jurisdictions with more precise legal frameworks. As the United States grapples with regulatory ambiguity, the United Kingdom can position itself as a hub for Web3 innovation by simplifying and streamlining its cryptocurrency regulations.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Jonathan Borba; Pexels; Thank you!

Deanna Ritchie

Managing Editor at ReadWrite

Deanna is the Managing Editor at ReadWrite. Previously she worked as the Editor in Chief for Startup Grind and has over 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.

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