How to Become a Freelance Travel Writer: A Second Career or a Pastime?

One of the distinct advantages to being a freelance travel writer is that you can travel, write and publish regardless of where you are, anywhere in the world. This can be an excellent second career for baby boomers or seniors.

“The great advantage of freelance writing is that it can be done either in conjunction with another career, or as a career in itself. It can also be a very well paid profession, whether part-time or full-time.”

How to become a freelance travel writer is something writers wonder, until they realize that as freelance travel writers, they can actually travel and write about their travels or travel in their writing, in terms of research. Freelance travel writers write and publish internationally, which makes this appealing in terms of a potential occupation or simply as a pastime. 

From an occupational perspective, the London School of Journalism article, “Freelance travel writing” discusses training as a journalist. This is one way to become a professional, freelance travel writer. While it does involve initial cost, it is a well-paying profession.

Consider the following suggestions about ways to become a freelance travel writer.

Find a publishing platform for freelance travel writers.

Writing, travelling and publishing are possible when one finds a publishing platform for freelance writers on the Internet. Recently, Helium.com has offered international writers the convenience of posting their work from any part of the world. This website has provided a viable marketplace for freelance writers.   

Set up a blog as a freelance travel writer.

Many freelance writers prefer to set up their own blogs, as personal or business websites accessible from where they travel. This works well in conjunction with amateur or professional photography. The travel writer advertises his or her written work and photography on his or her blog and when articles sell, he or she receives financial remuneration via an online web site like Paypal.com.    

Find an agent for freelance travel writers. 

Finding an agent who advertises and sells the writings of freelance travel writers is preferable for a person who simply wants to travel and write, rather than engage in publishing or marketing. An agent will seek a percentage of the remuneration a freelance travel writer receives.

Find an organization or company willing to pay freelance travel writers for specific travel-related writing assignments.

There are online companies, as well as others, like magazines, willing to cover travel, accommodation and other expenses incurred by freelance travel writers. Yet others are interested in the personal experiences of freelance travel writers who travel to specific locations.

Become a ghostwriter as a freelance travel writer.

Becoming a ghostwriter for someone who simply wants or needs travel information, can be a challenge for a freelance travel writer. These are usually paid assignments where the freelance travel writer remains anonymous.

Becoming a freelance travel writer can be fun, exciting and interesting regardless of the direction one goes in terms of travel, writing, publishing and marketing.

Adult Education: How to Decide on the Right Course

Adult education often presents an exciting, new challenge for baby boomers and retirees. Deciding on the right course may appear to be a foreboding, confusing and frustrating task for students returning to school, particularly after spending many years in the work force. New students and others may have difficulty choosing courses too, because there are so many different course options offered by high schools, colleges and universities. 

The course your take may depend upon your most viable option in conjunction with your personal choice.

An online course might prove to be a viable option. For example, MDE Learning Solutions offers online course options, specific to computer programs. 

How to decide on the right course involves a number of factors including the following:

What courses does the high school, college or university offer?

Your decision about the course you take may depend on the courses offered in your immediate area.  If you are unable to find the course of your choice, you may have to attend another institution. Seek advice on courses and course curricula from high school, college or university guidance counselors. Certain courses may be offered and not others, depending upon the institution and semester in question.

   

What is your motivation for taking the course?

As a student, you will do well in a course you are motivated to take. Do not enroll in a course unless you are serious about taking it. You may take it and find that you are interested in it, but the opposite can happen. You could be wasting your time, as well as that of your teacher, professor and others, so be careful in your course choice.    

Is the course you want to take a required course or an interest level course?

Students take courses for many different reasons. A required course is one you have to take because it is compulsory. To meet the requirements for other academic programs, jobs or careers, a course may be obligatory. An interest level course is one that you take because you are interested in a particular subject.  It is not compulsory. Many adults take courses for interest’s sake or as a way to meet others who have similar interests.

Do you qualify for the course?

Most, but not all courses, have basic prerequisites. Not everyone qualifies for every course either, as there can be requirements for courses depending upon their academic level and degree of complexity. As a student, you may have to take a preliminary course or a series of other courses first, depending upon your choice of an academic program or career. After you demonstrate success, you become eligible to enroll in the course you are considering.   

Can you afford the cost of the course?

Courses can be expensive, so do not waste money taking inappropriate or unnecessary courses. Adult education courses offered through high schools or community programs have minimal cost, but may not give the prerequisites for other courses. On the college or university level, there are designated fees for courses. There may be other costs involved too, for example, tools or equipment required in the course. The cost of textbooks and other school supplies may or may not be included in the cost of the course.

Is the time of the course appropriate for you?

Adults and other students taking courses often have full time or part time jobs. When the course runs, may vary from regular daytime classes to weekly evening classes. You should plan to be in class, as well as attend all tests, examinations, field trips, etc. scheduled at other times. Teachers and professors may be relatively flexible, but are not always willing to take on students who cannot participate appropriately because of their time schedules.

How to decide upon the course you take depends to some extent upon you and your needs, in relation to the course itself. Internet research will help you to discover your most viable options. You may consider taking an online course if you are not able to find the kind of course you need or want to take locally. 

Remember that the course you choose can help to determine your future, so make a wise choice. You will be glad that you did.

Career Choices: When is Pursuing a Second Career a Good Idea?

Career options vary from era to era, but the timing of a second career can be a major factor with respect to obtaining employment, particularly during a time of economic decline. Starting a second career may be the ideal solution for a baby boomer or retiree seeking work.

The article, “Skills to Learn, to Restart Earnings” suggests,

“The impact of the economic and stock market declines on retirees and workers about to retire has been especially pronounced. While younger workers have time to recover some of their losses, many older workers and retirees have to ….remake themselves for the job market.”

‘Remaking your self’ by pursuing a second career can prove to be an exciting challenge. It is never too late to begin.

Maybe you want to expand your career horizons because of economic uncertainty. There is no limit to the number of career options offered by colleges and universities, at this time. Add to that the multiplicity of career choices offered online. Seeking information from a career guidance counselor may prove beneficial.

When you want to grow academically or change your profession permanently, it is a good time to consider a second career, because your motivation level will be high. Many people outgrow their careers over time and want new mental stimulation. For example, an elderly doctor may want to pursue sculpture as a second career and be highly motivated to do so. Until that time, it has only been an interest or a hobby. He can turn it into a small business and succeed at it.

Layoffs indicate that there may no longer be work for someone who has had the same career for many years. Technology changes and jobs disappear. If you have prepared for possible job loss with a second career, the impact will be less frightening. Making career choices is easier when you are young and ambitious, but times change, as do career choices. For example, consider the career of a switchboard operator. Some careers like this one, which has been ideal for women for years, simply become outmoded or obsolete. When you are aware of that reality, you know it is time to make a change in your career.

Choosing a second career will take careful planning on your part. You will need to be cautious in terms of making a second career choice. For example, is your second career a viable option? For example, it would be difficult to obtain training as a switchboard operator, at this time and if you did, would you be able to find employment? That is unlikely, even though it may be something that you have always wanted to do. Computer telemarketing or customer service may replace that kind of a job. Freelance writing may be another option.

Job frustration can be an indication that a second career would be more appropriate. Perhaps you have outgrown your present career and boredom is setting in. Maybe you dread getting up in the morning and going to work as your job is no longer fun or interesting. Remember that people change and as you get older, it is likely that you, your interests and goals will change, too.

Wanting an additional source of income is sufficient reason to begin pursuing a second career. You may have part time employment, which gives you the time to pursue a second career. Consider your options and then become proactive.  

Have you retired recently and want something new and different to do? Maybe your other career is too heavy mentally, physically and emotionally. These are all valid reasons for pursuing a second career.

Life is too interesting not to proceed in terms of what you could do and thus, pursuing a second career is a good idea, at any time.

Career paths can go in unexpected directions. What should you do if, much to your dismay, you suddenly find yourself on the wrong career path as a baby boomer or a senior?

Be aware that your career decision is ultimately up to you. Perhaps you initially chose what you thought was the right career and now you are re-thinking your career choice. Even if you think that you made the wrong decision initially, you still have viable career options regardless of your age, academic background, previous employment, skills and training.

Careerpath.com suggests that there are “career tests to help you on your unique career path.” There are always more career options “whether it be deciding what career to choose, assessing options for a career change or learning about different career choices.”

Fear leading to panic may be your first reaction when you discover that you are on the wrong career path. A sudden release of adrenalin may result in a fight or flight response or an emotional freezing, because you experience feelings of helplessness and paralysis in terms of your initial career choice. Do not panic.

Are you avoiding college or university where you are currently taking courses leading to your chosen career?  Maybe you are taking an avoidance-avoidance approach by not dealing with the situation at hand, because you think you have made a bad career choice. Perhaps you are not going to work because you feel ill. Fear can make you feel this way.

Recognize that this is a career crisis which can happen to anyone. Making your initial career choice may not have been easy, as family members or friends influence career choices, but their choice of a career for you may not be what you want to do for the rest of your life. Career choices are idealistic to some extent and can to be different from actual careers. Regardless of your career choice, there can be aspects of any career that you may not enjoy.

Facing a career crisis head-on is important. If you do not deal with your career crisis, you may wind up spending the rest of your life in a career that you do not want.

Begin to examine your feelings closely. Why do you feel that you are in the wrong career? You may not be, but at times, it feels that way. Perhaps you feel inadequate or recognize you are in a career that appears to be over your head academically, or otherwise. Does it seem to be too much of a challenge for you? 

Everyone experiences good days and bad with respect to career choices.

What about when you know the time has come change your career path? Many baby boomers and seniors seeking employment find themselves in this category.  

What are your career options?

It may be time to seek professional career counseling. If your career path is still in the preliminary or early planning stages, academically or otherwise, seeking immediate professional career counseling can prove beneficial with respect to helping you to get back on track. Do some serious research on the Internet, as you may be able to change your courses and enter another career. If you are already actively engaged in a career, an employment counselor may be able to show you other viable options. The career you are in may prove to be an important stepping-stone in terms of other possible career choices

Consider upgrading. If you being are realistic about your career, continuing in it or transitioning to a new one by upgrading are both possible, but it may mean extra energy, time and effort your part.

Stay positive, pro-active and motivated in terms of averting a career crisis and effecting a transition. Remember that your choice of a career is an important determining factor in your life and career decisions are ultimately yours.

Why It's a Good Idea to Provide Sensitivity Training For Your Employees

Employers are aware that their employees come from a wide variety of countries, cultures and communities. Each employee is a unique person with his or her own diverse background, personality, beliefs and customs and thus, interaction can be problematic, at times. Age may also be a factor when it concerns baby boomers and seniors.  

Have you thought about having sensitivity training for your employees?

What is sensitivity training?

Dictionaryreference.com defines sensitivity training as “a form of group therapy designed to develop understanding of oneself and others through free, unstructured discussion.” 

According to businessdictionary.com, “sensitivity training will make people more aware of group dynamics and their own behavior, impersonal traits and role within a group.”

There are different aspects of relationships for employers to consider with respect to sensitivity training for employees. Sensitivity training is important in terms of internal interaction, as well as in respect to external employee relationships. With regard to various organizations and companies, diversity of employees “affects not only relationships between companies and their customers, but also culture within companies themselves”. 

Sensitivity training in a work environment is a vital part of success in any organization. Group sessions held on a regular basis can help to resolve potential issues and concerns that exist and may be instrumental in averting potential future problems.

Each employee functions in a unique capacity and being able to function effectively entails working with others within the scope of his or her own organization, but also being able to relate to consumers. There is a growing realm of potential consumerism on the vast Internet horizon. Individually and collectively, employees with sensitivity training are able to cope with others engaged in unique enterprises around the globe. How employees relate to consumers reflects the employer, as well as the entire organization.   

Internally, concern, care and compassion with regard to others, is an important aspect of sensitivity training in any work environment. While many employees instinctively know the importance of respect and trust of others, not everyone comes from the same kind of background or culture. Learning or earning trust and respect is not always easy for some.

Sensitivity training is also important in a work environment for the prevention of work place problems like bullying, particularly when it comes to gender-related bullying.

In an age when many baby boomers and seniors are working beyond retirement, sensitivity training can prove beneficial in helping employees cope with transitions in the work place.

For the younger generation and new employees, sensitivity training makes it possible to benefit from the experience of others in terms of developing interpersonal relationships. New employees often face their employers and other employees with fear, which can be resolved with sensitivity training.

Ideally, a work environment is a place where employers and employees are comfortable, happy and at peace, a place where they can relate with others appropriately and develop ongoing interpersonal relationships. This becomes possible with sensitivity training, which can improve the general atmosphere of a work environment, as well as increase the potential productivity of any organization.

The potential benefits of sensitivity training to both employers and employees are not to be out-weighed, as they can be endless in scope. 

What are the Differences Between Certificates and Diplomas, Majors and Degrees: Understanding Academic Accreditation

Certificates, diplomas, majors and degrees are an important part of education and refer to different aspects of it. 

First, what is education in terms of recognition and acknowledgement?

Dictionary.com suggests that education is the “science or art of teaching”.

Throughout the generations, education as knowledge taught from one generation to another on various levels, entitles successful students to appropriate recognition and acknowledgement of their accomplishments with the awarding of certificates, diplomas and degrees. The question becomes one of how these differ and how they relate to majors.  

Certificates: 

Certificates recognize and acknowledge the completion of courses or programs. For example, a certificate might be appropriate for school age students for babysitting or first aid courses. In high school, certificates signify completion of various incentive programs like cheer leading or the achievement of trade skills like carpentry.

On the college level, certificates mark the completion of specific programs like personal support workers or travel agents. The same holds true on the university or post-university level. In college, certificate programs may be several weeks or months in length; others require one or two years.

Note that baby boomers and other older people often receive certificates for participation in various programs like community leadership, or exercise programs. Certificates serve as incentives for those in senior’s homes. 

Diplomas:

Diplomas awarded upon graduation to children as young as preschool or kindergarten age, signify their graduation. Throughout the lives of children and teenagers, the various diplomas they receive depict different levels of academic achievement. Grade school, middle school or high school diplomas for graduating students are important in terms of recognition and acknowledgement for their achievements.

Degrees:

Students meeting higher, academic requirements on a college or university level after completing a specified number of years of education, receive degrees. Degree programs vary from college to university as accreditation levels may differ. These range from a Bachelor of Arts (or Science), Bachelor of Arts (Honors), Master of Arts or a Doctorate. These university programs vary from one to four years or more, depending upon academic requirements. Other university programs may lead to different kinds of degrees.

Majors:

When university students signify a serious interest in certain areas of academic endeavor, they can purse further study in these areas as majors. Majors and minors can be determined relatively early in college or university life or be part of ongoing academic programs. Majors as opposed to minors, focus on very specific areas of academic interest; minors are secondary interests. 

Education requirements tend to differ around the world. Thus, when a student receives a certificate, diploma or a degree in one country, the requirements he or she has met may not be the same in another country. Not all certificates, diplomas or degrees are appropriate everywhere and further upgrading may be required in order to obtain employment. 

Education is worth pursuing and certificates, diplomas and degrees all reveal academic achievements and prove beneficial in terms of obtaining potential employment. Majors focus on very intense areas of academic interest and degrees may be obtained in a chosen major, in conjunction with a secondary minor.  

The Transition From Pen Pals to Social Media Contacts: The Changing Art of Communication

With the advent of electronic communication, the art of communication by mail between pen pals appears to be a phenomenon that may be disappearing forever. In this era, communication via social media contact now appears to be the preferred mode of communication for the majority of people.

What is a pen pal?

The freedictionary.com suggests that a pen pal is “a person with whom one becomes acquainted through a friendly, regular correspondence”.

Historically and traditionally, pen pal communication has been with letters penned or written on various kinds of paper, mailed in stamped envelopes via local, national and international postal services and delivered to individual's mailboxes via trained postal workers.

Millions of relationships between pen pals have been highly regarded over the years. Thousands of letters between pen pals have become valuable treasures to individual pen pals and their families, from generation to generation. Today, many people miss the pen pal phenomenon and still cling to their pen pal postal relationships.

At the same time, thousands of people remain fearful of computer-based inter-personal relationships. Not everyone wants to take the time to learn how to use a computer, particularly in terms of pen pal relationships. 

To some people, electronic communication via the Internet seems like a cold, heartless mode of communication compared to the warmth of loving, pen pal relationships. Perhaps one might suggest that it is seniors and perhaps some, but not necessarily all baby boomers who miss their pen pal relationships, as well as this mode of communication.

Interestingly, many of those who have developed communication skills on the Internet do not feel the same of loss.   

Note that the need for inter-communication between individuals is not something that changes, while modes of communication invariably change from era to era. The truth is that the pen pal phenomenon has not disappeared entirely, rather that the pen pal phenomenon has merely changed its face and extended its horizons into the virtual world.

One might wonder whether this is a good thing. Most of those who are computer literate will agree that this transition in the mode of communication is for the better. To the vast majority, acceptance of new modes of communication seems viable, exciting and challenging.

Being able to communicate via e-mail, social media web sites and chat lines is wonderful, simply because of the time factor involved. Instant communication via the Internet does have merits that supersede other obsolete modes of communication, simply because of the potential to enhance interpersonal relationships and expand horizons.

Resistance to change in their mode of communication can present major hurdles for pen pals, until they become aware that electronic communication can be a more resilient and convenient method of communication.

Note that many pen pal relationships continue to develop in a positive direction for those who choose to upgrade their communication skills. Perhaps those who object to social media communication are justified to some extent in their fear regarding potential loss of privacy and personal identity associated with electronic communication. At the same time, people are and will always be risk-takers because they love to communicate with others.

The transition from pen pals to social media contacts will continue, at least for those who are open to the transition from traditional pen pal communication to social media interpersonal contact.      

How to Find a Job if You are Overage, Over Qualified and Unemployed: See Yourself as an Asset to a Potential Employer

In a time of global, economic decline, finding a job may seem almost impossible. If you are an overage, overqualified and unemployed baby boomer or senior, who must return to work in order to cover the cost of living, it may appear to be even more difficult to find appropriate employment.

Being overage and overqualified are two major obstacles that you as a realistic job seeker may have to deal with. You know how old you are and what this can mean in terms of possible employment, but you should not let this deter you.

When an employer confronts you with the reality of your age, this can prove to be an age discrimination issue and thus, understanding what age discrimination means may prove beneficial to you.

What is age discrimination?

The businessdictionary.com suggests that age discrimination refers to “unfair treatment in recruitment, promotions, or granting of privileges on the basis of the age of the recipient.” 

'Can you do the job?' is the real question. You probably would not apply for a job that you feel you cannot do because of health or physical limitations associated with your age. Researching your prospective job ahead of time and applying for only suitable jobs will prove to your advantage.

What does it mean to be overqualified?

Dictionary.com suggests that the word overqualified refers to “having more education, training, or experience than is required for a job or position.” 

In the past, the problem used to be a lack of qualifications with respect to potential job seekers. The current era has to address the issue of a multiplicity of job applications by candidates who are overage and overqualified. Because there are so many job seekers, employers can be more selective in terms of hiring. In other words, with numerous over-age and over-qualified unemployed people on the job market, the competition is fierce.

Consider the following guidelines with respect to finding possible employment.

A carefully written, cover letter and resume can prevent a lot of concern on the part of a potential employer. A professional resume reflects your honesty, integrity and ability, as well as your suitability for potential employment.

Personal references are important, as these reflect your previous academic and employment experience, skills and training.  

Your attitude and comportment are major factors in terms of potential employment. Be positive, proactive and pleasant. Speaking and acting professionally when interviewed as well as dressing appropriately, are vital.

Do upgrading or skills training as required. Technology changes rapidly and what you feel may be adequate may not meet the current needs of an employer, in spite of your previous qualifications or experience. 

Being realistic about your age and qualifications will help your potential employer to see you in the same light. 

Be aware that many employers are willing to hire those who are over-age and over-qualified, although they may not be able to able to pay them an appropriate wage. The demands of the actual job you are applying for may be a determining factor in your wage level, more so than your age, experience or qualifications.      

With any job there is always the opportunity for advancement so initially, being hired is what is the most important. 

Those who are over-age and over-qualified have a distinct advantage over young, inexperienced employees when it comes to promotions, as employers can draw from their wealth of education, training, skills and experience.

Seeing and presenting yourself as an asset to a potential employer rather than a liability, will help him or her to see you that way. 

Becoming a Teacher as Your Second Career: A Second Job Versus a Calling?

For you, as a baby boomer or senior, who must return to work in order to survive financially during a period of economic decline, becoming a teacher with respect to having a second career may prove to be a wise decision.

Understanding what a second career is, as well as its future implications for you, may help in the decision-making process.

What is a career as opposed to a job or a calling?

Dictionary.com suggests that a career is “an occupation or profession, especially one requiring special training, followed as one’s life work” or “a person’s progress or general course of action through life or through a phase of life as in some profession or undertaking”.

On the other hand, Dictionary.com defines a job as “a piece of work, especially a specific task done as a part of the routine of one’s occupation or for an agreed price” or “a post of employment”.

A calling according to freedictionary.com is “a strong inner urge to follow an occupation” or it may be “an occupation, profession, or trade”.  At times, it may include “divine inspiration”.

It is important for you to understand why your second career choice is to become a teacher at this time in your life.

Perhaps you have always wanted to be a teacher, but did not have the opportunity to do so when you were younger and so you accepted a different kind of job. Maybe you have gone through a recent layoff due to technological changes or financial cutbacks in your career.

Are you actively engaged in a job or career that does not meet your needs, financial or otherwise? Maybe you simply do not enjoy or find personal satisfaction in your work and want to change your career to one that you feel is your true calling in life.

Second careers choices are optional, but with a multiplicity of growing opportunities around the globe, teaching as a second career may prove to be increasingly desirable, feasible and practical for you.

Academic qualifications for teachers are relatively high and professional certification may be required. This could mean academic upgrading that will require considerable time and effort on your part. Do you have that kind of time and energy?

Professional career counseling in conjunction with re-training, or second career training programs may prove to your advantage, especially if you are experiencing financial difficulty. There may be financial assistance available for second career training.

On the other hand, your current education, training, skills and previous work experience may be sufficient. Perhaps you are already qualified to teach others and have the opportunity to do so in a similar environment. 

Further upgrading with specific courses that offer certification is another possibility.

There are times when previous education, jobs and other careers prove to be valuable stepping-stones towards becoming a teacher, in terms of your true calling and second career. If teaching is your calling, you will find a way to fulfill your dreams.   

Setting Goals When Planning Your Career: Is This a Second Career?

Whether you are planning your career for the first time, or are looking for a second career in life as a baby boomer or a senior, appropriate goal setting establishes proactive guidelines and signifies positive, constructive motivation.  

Understanding what setting career goals means is important.

A goal is defined as “the purpose toward which an endeavor is directed” or “an objective”.

Goal setting with respect to career planning has three important aspects: purpose, direction and objectives.

Purpose:

What are you looking for in a career or a second career? Not everyone pursues careers for the same reason. As you begin to discover, determine and set your own goals, the purpose of your career planning will become increasingly evident to you and others. You will recognize the merit of goal planning, whether it is oriented to your first or second career.  

First career choices are usually dependent upon academic qualifications. These choices may be rooted in the desire to pursue certain careers and are often the result of the influence of role models in your life. The academic choices you make should ultimately reflect your career orientation. Goal setting begins at an early age as students begin to seek direction from parents, teachers in high school, college or university career counselors. Ability and exceptional gifts are other factors taken into consideration with respect to first career choices and goal setting.   

Is a particular career choice something that you feel inspired to pursue? Perhaps you do not really know why you are choosing a certain career or a second career.

Inspiration can come from different directions regardless of your age and academic background. Those who prove to be the happiest in their chosen careers are inspired to pursue them. People who have already had careers and are seeking second careers may be inspired to move forward into different careers. The purpose of their second careers becomes increasingly evident to them and others, as they recognize the reality that they have exceptional gifts. Setting goals to develop these gifts further can lead them towards new ‘lifetime’ careers.      

Direction:

When planning your career, a lack of direction can prove to be a major obstacle in terms of possible success. The direction your career plan goes will be optional to some degree, but it depends upon you as a unique individual and the goals that you set. Not everyone has the same vision or sense of direction, regardless of career options. Setting goals that help you to clarify your direction as part of the career planning process can also enable you to take a step at a time in the right direction.

       

Objective:

The objective you strive towards when planning a career or second career, has to do with the ultimate fulfillment of your personal desires. Goal setting, directed towards achieving that objective in your career life can make it possible. Be aware that while parents, teachers and others are often helpful and instrumental in creating career plans and goal setting, your individual career choice is something that only you can determine.

If you are positive, constructive and proactive in respect to career planning and goal setting, you can also expect to achieve your career objectives in a realistic manner.   

How Baby Boomers Will Change the Way Others Retire: A Global Perspective

In the past several years, baby boomers have begun to enter into retirement and are destined to change the way others retire.

According to Statistics Canada, “Since 1921, the largest annual increase in the number of births occurred between 1945 and 1946, with an increase of about 15 percent. This marked the start of the baby boom period.”

The baby boomer period began at the end of World War II and lasted for approximately twenty years.

There is no doubt that the large numbers of baby boomers has made an impact on Canada, one that will continue throughout the world, in the coming years.

Economically, the sheer number of retirees will result in a transition with respect to how others will retire in the future. A question arises as to whether or not the Canadian economy can support such large numbers of people who are, or will be eligible for retirement benefits, shortly.

One of the major changes that occurred in Canada recently, is the announcement of a change in retirement age, or an “increase the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) between the years 2023 and 2029, from 65 to 67.”      

Note that this kind of a transition has future implications for baby boomers, as well as others. Some of these changes will be employment related, while others concern their health status. For example, many baby boomers will continue employment rather than retire early. Other baby boomers will seek further academic or skills training because of their necessity to find employment.

The health status of baby boomers is better than ever before, for people of their age. This means they are likely to live longer than their parents, or grandparents. This in turn, will lead to a higher number of older retired people, who will require long-term medical and health care.

One of the major concerns with respect to health care is that there is a smaller, post baby boomer population upon whose shoulders will fall the responsibility of caring for aged baby boomers or others who are more elderly retirees..

Note that the increasing elderly population phenomenon is not strictly limited to Canada, or North America, as an increasing number of elderly people is a global phenomenon. Perhaps Canada and the United States will help influence the rest of the world with respect to how to handle concerns related to the baby boomers and other elderly people.   

The majority of baby boomers who have begun to retire are proactive, positive and constructive individuals, who have been instrumental in shaping the economy on a global basis. Many have made major contributions to the economy, as well as to improvements in technology, education and health care. Progress always involves change. As baby boomers bring about further change with respect to their retirement, others may be pleasantly surprised.    

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Change of Career: Cover Letters and Career Changes

Submitting a professional cover letter with your resume increases the likelihood of obtaining employment that will enable you to change your career, even as a baby boomer or a senior. Understanding the nature and purpose of a cover letter in the light of today’s unpredictable economy, may prove helpful.

What is a cover letter?

Businessdictionary.com suggests that a cover letter is a “formal letter describing the accompanying documents and/or other items and the reasons for sending them.”

Because of rapidly advancing computer technology, there is now a wide diversity of cover letter formats to choose from. While the appearance of cover letters that accompany resumes is subject to change, office.microsoft.com offers a free template download, if you are uncertain of the basic components of a cover letter.

The appearance and readability of your cover letter is important. The data contained in it should be appropriate, relevant and poignant, while maintaining contextual simplicity, regardless of its format.

Will your choice of cover letter format impress your potential employer and result in a positive, career change for you? Remember that because of high levels of unemployment, your potential employer may decide to peruse a multiplicity of cover letters in order to find the best possible candidate.  

Correct applicant procedure for your cover letter provides vital information that accompanies your resume, so that your potential employer can immediately identify you as the best possible candidate for a position.  The date on your application is important particularly when there is a specified time for application submission, or if there are numerous applicants.    

Including the correct name and address of your potential employer ensures that the cover letter will go to the right person, organization, or place of employment. Cover letters and resumes may get lost in any organizations, particularly large ones.

Professionalism with respect to addressing your potential employer in your cover letter increases the likelihood of receiving a positive response. An attitude of respect is always important. 

The body of your cover letter should focus on relevant aspects pertinent to your potential employment. In other words, why should a potential employer hire you instead of someone else? Keep your points brief, but show your potential employer that you are the most qualified candidate.

Note that making any change in your career can present unanticipated issues and concerns, particularly if you have held one position for a long time. Baby boomers and seniors who desire to return to work after early retirement, may encounter difficulty changing careers, but including information about why you want to change your career may prove beneficial.

In closing your cover letter, thank your potential employer for reading and considering your cover letter and resume.

Your potential employer may decide to contact you immediately for an interview, so be available. One of the most important aspects of the cover letter is your personal contact information. Include your telephone number or cell phone number, e-mail address, etc. If your potential employer cannot reach you, your application for employment may not receive the attention it deserves.

Any information posted in your cover letter can make a difference, so be certain that it is positive, constructive and motivational, as well as conducive to hiring by your prospective employer. It should always be verifiable.

Expect to be the candidate hired and changing your career will happen!