Navigating the Job Market at 50+

Finding a new job can be challenging at any stage of life, but for many older New Zealanders (those aged 50 and above), securing employment can be even more difficult. With workplaces often prioritising a younger but experienced workforce, many older workers find themselves overlooked despite their wealth of skills and experience.

The past year has seen significant redundancies across Aotearoa, with many workers in the 50-70 age bracket losing long-held roles. While some are financially prepared for retirement, others are not yet ready—or willing—to step away from the workforce. Yet, despite their expertise, securing a new position can feel like an uphill battle.

Why Do Older Workers Struggle to Find Employment?

Many experienced professionals find it difficult to re-enter the workforce due to:

• Age Bias in Hiring – Some employers mistakenly believe older workers lack adaptability, tech skills, or the energy of younger employees.
• Tech Skills Gap – Rapid changes in digital tools and systems can leave those who haven’t upskilled at a disadvantage. If you need to improve your digital skills, check out our article on The Soft Skills That Machines Can’t Replace to see how soft skills can impact career growth.
• Employer Preferences – Businesses may see younger employees as a long-term investment, leading to older workers being overlooked.
• Industry Shifts – Some industries have evolved or downsized, leaving fewer opportunities for experienced professionals.

Why Employers Should Embrace Older Workers

Despite these challenges, hiring older workers brings a range of benefits:

• Proven Experience – Years of industry knowledge and problem-solving abilities add immense value.
• Reliability and Work Ethic – Many older workers have a strong commitment to mahi (work) and bring a stable, dedicated approach to their roles.
• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing – They can mentor younger employees, helping to bridge skill gaps and strengthen workplace culture.
• Diversity and Inclusion – An intergenerational workforce fosters innovation, balance, and better decision-making.

How Older Workers Can Improve Their Job Prospects

If you’re over 50 and struggling to secure work, there are steps you can take to improve your chances:

1. Refresh Your CV and Cover Letter

Ensure your CV is modern, concise, and highlights transferable skills. Focus on recent achievements and keep formatting clean and professional. Customise your cover letter for each role, showcasing how your experience aligns with the job. If you need help, check out our guide on Creating Personalised Cover Letters with ChatGPT.

2. Upskill and Stay Current

Consider training courses or certifications to update your skills, particularly in areas like technology, digital tools, and industry-specific advancements. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Te Pūkenga offer accessible learning options. Learn more about staying relevant in the job market with our article on Preparing for a Job Interview.

3. Leverage Your Network

Many roles are filled through networking rather than traditional applications. Reconnect with former colleagues, attend industry events, and use LinkedIn to stay visible in your professional community. If you’ve faced rejection, our article on Why Didn’t I Get the Job? Top Reasons You’re Not Hearing Back from Employers provides strategies to stay resilient.

4. Consider Flexible Work Arrangements

If full-time roles are scarce, look at contract, part-time, or freelance work. Many employers are open to flexible arrangements, and these roles can often lead to permanent opportunities. Read more about flexible working options in our piece on The Challenges of Hybrid Work.

5. Engage with Specialist Recruiters

As a leading recruiter, Adecco can help match your skills with the right employer. A recruitment specialist can also offer CV advice, interview coaching, and access to hidden job markets.

Overcoming Age Bias in the Workplace

While job seekers can take proactive steps, businesses also need to rethink their hiring strategies. Employers who focus on skills, experience, and cultural fit—rather than age—can build a stronger, more diverse team.

If you’re an employer looking to build an inclusive workforce, consider:

• Focusing on skills over age in job descriptions and hiring decisions.
• Offering training programmes to help employees of all ages stay up to date.
• Creating mentorship opportunities that allow older employees to share their expertise with younger colleagues.

Final Thoughts

For older workers, finding a new role may take time, but it’s far from impossible. By staying proactive, upskilling, and leveraging support networks, you can improve your chances of landing a fulfilling job. Meanwhile, businesses that embrace a diverse workforce—including experienced professionals—stand to gain a wealth of knowledge, stability, and productivity.

At Adecco, we understand the challenges job seekers face, regardless of age. Whether you’re looking for a new opportunity or need guidance on your job search, we’re here to help. Get in touch today and take the next step in your career journey.