Survey reports: baby-boomers now face age factor when searching for a job.

From Exec-U-Net

The old saying "Easier to find a job when you have a job" may no longer be true."

As millions of baby-boomers slide into middle age, those employed on the executive level face more of an uphill battle when searching for a new job. Age bias is alive and well

The survey findings show that the number of interviews declines and the job search lengthens with age. Exec-U-Net found that, compared to a 35-40 year old, it takes 18% longer for a 41-45 year old executive to find a job, it takes 24% longer for a 46-50 year old, and 44% longer for a 51-55 year old, and 66% longer for a 56-60 year old to find a job.

Exec-U-Net polled over 400 executives regarding the impact of age on the length and number of interviews in an executive job search. The survey found that regardless of salary, executives should expect a job change to take nine months to a year depending on age and salary.

The survey also found that it might take longer to get a job while employed than when in a transition. An executive in transition can expect a job search of 9.2 months with 10.5 interviews, while an employed executive can expect an 11.1 month job search with an average of 9.1 interviews.

"There is a preconceived notion that an older candidate is not active and up to date in skills enough, says David Opton executive director of Exec-U-Net. "Many younger managers who are making the hiring decisions do not perceive age and experience as the same thing. They also fear than an older employee will have a hard time working for a boss younger than themselves."

David Opton advises that baby-boomers should be realistic - if you are 50 years old, bring your expectation level down. There will not be as many interviews as for those who are 35 years old. Try to focus more energy on your job search and enter interviews with vigour and enthusiasm. The key is to adapt and fit into the work environment you are entering.

Executives can routinely check out job listings and competitive salary information by going directly to Exec-U-Net's Career and Salary Watch web site at www.execunet.com/jobinfo.htm. This free service provides a two-week snapshot of the executive employment marketplace. Exec-U-Net also offers a free electronic executive insider newsletter, to keep executives informed about job search and careers at www.execunet.com/New.htm

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