La unemployment it's not just a juvenile evil. Even the over 50 they suffer from it and, indeed, are the most discriminated against. Some employment agencies are taking care of it. In Europe, new seniors are valued for their skills and experience. And in Italy? As we know in Italy there is a high percentage of youth unemployment but, unfortunately, even for those over 50 there are many difficulties in finding work or being able to establish themselves in a new professional field. Despite the various legislative attempts and good intentions, the over 50s are the most discriminated against in terms of employment. Very often, in fact, their qualities, the experience gained over the years and the acquired value are not taken into account but only their age, without consider the fact that at 50 you are still young, capable and full of desire to do. However, it seems that things are starting to change. Thanks to specialized agencies and specific programs, there may soon be new opportunities.
Specialized employment centres
There is a false belief that young people are more flexible, learn faster and have more energy, but it must be considered that the new seniors are experienced, reliable and more mature. What could there be for them? In many European countries there have already been employment agencies and centers for several years aimed exclusively at the over 50s. In countries such as Great Britain and the Netherlands, professional courses, targeted meetings and consultancy with recruiters are organized at the expense of the Government, to put highlight their skills and understand how to use them in a given job. Why not in Italy?
Starting your own business
Don't forget the networks. In addition to the job announcements in newspapers, weeklies and various inserts, it is necessary to remember to also take a daily look at networks such as LinkedIn, where job announcements are published. Furthermore, the jobs that are reported to us follow the criteria that we have selected in the section of research, including age range and our professional experiences. Relying on the web is much simpler than you might think and especially in cases like these very productive. There's no need to go and ask for a job and we don't have to offer ourselves while waiting for an answer. We just need to create an attractive job profile and be honest about the type of work we are looking for. Let's also remember to reconnect with former colleagues and superiors, customers and suppliers, as well as with friends and family so that we can receive feedback and get in touch with someone who can help us. On the contrary, we may be helping our contacts and sometimes expanding our network of professional acquaintances.
Apprenticeship for those who decide to change career at 50
Why should the apprenticeship be aimed only at new high school graduates and new graduates? In many European countries it is not uncommon for people in their fifties and over to start an apprenticeship for a job different from what they did before. In England 34,000 people over 50 are apprentices for a new job and career. Why can't it happen in Italy? It would be an advantage to employ people who are still at their peak mental and physical strength, with considerable experience and a great desire to do. Furthermore, by opening new job positions, the Government would save on pensions, thus promoting economic mobility such as to invest in internships and training for the youngest. So the over 50s are a real resource both from a productive and an economic point of view. Our society would become more active, productive, younger and perhaps happier. The message that should pass is this: if you reach 50 and want to change jobs or embark on a new career, it's not too late to do so. It already happens in Europe.
