Best gifts for the over-50 jobhunter

Unlike their younger colleagues in Job Search Land, the over-50s probably have that classic look down pat.  Watches, pens, blazers, tasteful earrings… check

This is the age group which can benefit from an electronic gift.  What can you do to help your unemployed older friend be a viable candidate?  A few thoughts….

• a gps for the car.  For the directionally challenged, there’s no more excuse.  You’ll stand a better chance of being  on time for your interview,
• an e-reader and a companion gift card.  As prices come down, e-readers become more accessible.  And even a modest gift card can get one started.  A trade journal, a tech or finance magazine subscription, or a noted newspaper would be great to have at hand.  It’s a way to kill time in the waiting room before the interview (and impress the receptionist). Oh yes, if the question comes up about what you are currently reading, you’ll smile and have it at hand as you answer.
• a tablet.  Pricier than the e-reader, it has all the above attributes and so much more.  I’ve discovered that people want to talk about various models, so if you are carrying one with you on an interview, be prepared to discuss it!
• a smartphone.  This one is tricky unless it is for a family member, because of course there are implications for service contracts. You’ll need to do some detective work here.
• coaching! Find someone willing to put in an hour or more bringing our jobhunter up to speed on these new toys.  It’s doing no favors to give such a gift and expect the meager manual to cover the basis.

Notice a theme here?  Remember, employers have said in surveys that they hesitate to hire seniors because they may not be tech-savvie.  Any of the above-mentioned gifts can go a long way in overcoming that bias.

People over 50 really need to present themselves as open to new ways of doing things, including communicating.  Think about it.