Customer Reviews

So What If I'm 50?: Straight Talk and Proven Strategies for Getting Hired in the Toughest Job Market Ever

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OK, so you are looking for a job hunting book and are facing the issue of being an "older worker." This book is written in a jaunty, at times breezy style that keeps suggesting the subtext that "Hey, I'm on your side" so let's just be real!" Weinstein makes some observations on the job hunt in general, and pokes some fun at the nature of job interviewing. Come on, you are old enough to snicker a little at a question like "Why do you want to work for our company?" Duh! His premise is that with lots of experience behind you, write a letter (not resume) covering your accomplishments and abilities. Then offer a resume as an afterthought (i.e., sure you can read my resume, but you and I both know that it's a resume after all--a bunch of words! Wouldn't you rather meet the real thing in person?" He discusses what employers are usually thinking in the back of their minds (for example, most don't expect an employer to stay more than 5 years anyway, so what's the big deal about age?) He gets away from the rather denigrating explanations that "Sure your older but you have all that experience" cliche stuff. The sample letters are quite competent, and the book is a nice companion to have on your bookshelf even if you're not currently job seeking. You might next week, so why desparately order it FEDEX when you can have it as an ace in the hole. Clearly written by a competent prose writer,Weinstein has obviously mastered the basics of clear expository prose. good luck!

"So What if I'm 50?" is an informative, easy read covering the full gamut of job search topics. The book starts with helping you to identify where you are in the job search market by identifying your strengths and weaknesses.

We are currently living in a very tight job market which requires the job seeker to search outside the box for employment opportunities. "So What if I'm 50?" explores the non-traditional avenues of job search, including non profit, temp agencies, employment firms, networking and non-profits. It also helps you explore job search techniques from an entrepreneurial aspect. The book is full of informational resources to assist in the job search including information about associations, non-profits, colleges and universities.

The resume section contains excellent samples of cover letters and resumes. It also helps you to explain any problematic areas in your career - including job hoping or gaps in employment.

In some ways, the book assumes that the older worker is not as in tune to resources such as the Internet. After reading the book, I found that the information provided is applicable to job seekers of all ages, not just the older worker. It will also assist job seekers who have not been in the job market for awhile.

I definitely recommend this book as a resource to anyone seeking knowledge on making themselves marketable and succeeding in their job search.