Dear Abby: “Needs to Be Active” wrote that after more than 20 years as a nurse’s aide, she feels that no one wants to hire her because she is older. Abby, she does not have an age discrimination problem; she has a marketing and self-promotion problem!
If her experience and abilities are as stated, her skills are in strong demand across the country. People are not “given” jobs — they have to go after jobs. She should join a local business networking group; visit doctors’ offices and leave promotional handouts with her contact information; get to know nurses and staff at hospitals and senior centers and ask for referrals; call disability insurance companies and learn how to get on their list of recommended home nurses; advertise in the classified ads section of the local paper; and seek help from a business coach or marketing expert.
— Jim P., Promotion Expert in Florida
Dear Jim: Thank you for your terrific suggestions. And thank you to the many readers who wrote to offer the writer of that letter advice, ideas and a pep talk. Read on:
Dear Abby: I would recommend the nurse’s aide check with her local department of senior services. The government is providing more programs to help people stay at home instead of going into nursing homes. Many private agencies now offer in-home care services and are looking for full- and part-time caretakers.
— Mary in Missouri
Dear Abby: I’d like to spread the word about a program of the Department of Labor. Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP) allows financially eligible people 55 and older to train 20 hours a week and receive minimum wage at local non-profits. Seniors can acquire skills to help them obtain unsubsidized employment.
With the older workforce growing and a decrease in the younger one, hiring and retaining older workers will become a priority for many employers. The Department of Labor has information about SCSEP on its Web site: www.doleta.gov/seniors.
— Program Director, Mobile, Ala.
Dear Abby: She should check with AARP. Before retiring, I worked for a government agency that has special positions that could be filled by AARP seniors. These employees were a valuable asset and were able to take home a paycheck while contributing their expertise to help others.
— Pat from Carlsbad
Dear Abby: As director of nursing at an assisted- living community, I would like to encourage “Needs” to seek employment at one near her home. These communities often hire certified nursing assistants, and the work is less physically demanding than it is in a formal setting.
— Elkhart, Ind., Reader
Dear Abby: That woman should visit her beautician for a style update. She doesn’t have to pretend to be 20, but a stylish, mature woman can make a smashing impression.
— Young at Heart in Baltimore
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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
