In a challenging job market, especially for older applicants who may face age discrimination, many are seeking professional assistance such as career coaching, résumé writing, and networking support. These services can also include paid subscriptions to online tools that match candidates with suitable roles.
Carl Van Horn, a professor of public policy at Rutgers University who specializes in the American labor market, advises caution when considering paid services. “I would say to rely upon friends and colleagues and associates that you’ve known over the years,” he says.
Van Horn also recommends making use of free resources available online. He encourages job seekers to turn to volunteer organizations, college career centers, and faith-based institutions for support.
Organizations like AARP and Indeed have partnered to offer career services to older workers at little or no cost. Their offerings include résumé reviews, interview preparation, and career coaching.
Van Horn remains skeptical about investing heavily in any single tool but acknowledges that using a variety of approaches can be beneficial. “The job-search process is in some ways random,” he says. “What you want to do is increase the percentage of opportunities for a random hit.” He suggests attending networking events, seminars, or volunteering within an industry as ways to broaden prospects. Some strategies may require financial investment while others depend on how individuals manage their time and energy.
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University provides education and research in planning and public policy fields with the goal of promoting equitable and sustainable communities. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as public policy, health administration, urban planning, as well as research centers dedicated to transportation and health topics according to its official website. The Bloustein School is nationally ranked for its graduate urban planning program (third) and undergraduate public health program (fourth), reflecting its focus on workforce development alongside other areas such as community development and energy policy (source).