AARP Work@50+ Comes to Long Beach on November 2

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2013

CONTACT:
Charee Gillins
(626) 585-2606
cgillins@aarp.org

AARP’s Inaugural Work@50+ Conference Comes to Long Beach on November 2
Ground-breaking Conference Aimed at Supporting Older Workers Facing High Unemployment and Longer Jobless Periods

Pasadena, CA- In the face of high unemployment and long jobless periods, experienced workers will discover how they can gain a competitive edge in today’s tight job market when they gather at the Long Beach Convention Center, Saturday, November 2, 2013 (9am-2pm) for AARP’s inaugural Work@50+ conference.

High unemployment and long jobless periods continue to persist among older workers. The AARP Public Policy Institute recently reported that the August unemployment rate for workers over the age of 55 remains at 5.1 percent – virtually no change from July’s 5.0 percent.  In addition, unemployed older workers spend a longer time than other groups looking for work -- 50.4 weeks on average.

“We recognize that Californians over 50 are trying to stay employed or get back on the job for a variety of reasons,” said Katie Hirning, AARP California State Director.  “Older workers continue to face a difficult job picture in today’s economic environment.  It’s a priority for AARP to help older workers navigate the job market successfully and to achieve their employment goals.

Work@50+ is a free event and features exciting speakers, expert sessions, and valuable tools to help 50+ workers succeed in their job search.  Breakout sessions will emphasize the use of social media in the job search as well as help job seekers effectively market their skills and experience to help them succeed in a competitive job market.  Participants also will have the chance to interact with employers about job openings, as well as pick up information on programs and resources supporting older workers.

Entrepreneurs will find practical information at Work@50+ on starting and growing their own business. About one-sixth of Baby Boomers expect to go into business for themselves at some point.

SPEAKERS & HIGHLIGHTS

• Opening Session: Kerry Hannon, AARP’s Jobs/Work Expert and author of “Great Jobs for Everyone 50+”
• First 100 registrants to receive a free copy of Kerry Hannon’s new book
• Lunch Session:  Hear from Age-Friendly Employers
• "Technology," "Entrepreneurship" and “Branding Yourself” breakout sessions featuring local companies, aging experts, and 50+ individuals with testimonies
• Resource bags for each attendee
• Complimentary lunch and parking

 

AARP has a variety of programs and resources to support older workers.  Most recently, AARP has begun offering a new way for experienced workers to advance themselves through Work Reimagined, a social network-based jobs program that connects employers seeking experienced workers with qualified professionals searching for new or more satisfying careers.  The site ( www.workreimagined.org) leverages the platform of the market-leading social media company LinkedIn.

Work Reimagined offers job listings independent of LinkedIn, as well as articles, columns, tips and tools to help people navigate today’s workplace.

AARP has also developed an alliance with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to offer resources and advice to encourage older entrepreneurs.  Last April, AARP and SBA collaborated to host National Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month in several cities around the country.

Registration (required) is at: 1-877-926-8300 or http://aarp.cvent.com/Workat50Plus.

Complimentary lunch and self-parking will be provided.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services.  A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org ; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates.  The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org .

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