I'm not too old to learn!

Merrylands 21 April, 2004 - Forced out of work at 60-years-old, Pat Nash refused to settle down and instead took the opportunity to start a new career and show the world that you can never be too old to pursue your dreams.

When Pat found herself retrenched at the age of 60 after over twenty years in the workforce, she was determined to prove to the world that she was not too old to work and could still aspire to a new career. Three hundred job applications and a year later, Pat has achieved her goal of becoming an assistant nurse and hopes that her story can inspire others to pursue their dreams.

"Finding a new job was incredibly difficult. Employers just won't hire older workers because they think that we can't handle new tasks. This attitude needs to change," says Pat.

"A lot of people asked why I would put myself through the stress of job hunting and retraining, but the more people who told me I was too old, the more determined I was to prove them wrong.

"I didn't like to rely on social security, so when I lost my job, I went to Jobfind for professional advice on re-entering the workforce straight away."

As part of the Federal Government's Job Network, Jobfind Centres offer job search training services to assist job seekers like Pat with resume and interview techniques, as well as providing practical tips in other areas like self-presentation.

In addition, Jobfind's customised assistance program of one-on-one consultations ensures that job search and training programs are tailored individually to maximise each client's potential.

"They taught me how to use the computer and internet!" says Pat proudly. "Most people assume people my age can't learn new things, especially when it comes to technology, but I wanted to prove to the world that they were wrong.

"Jobfind also organised and paid for vocational training based on my interests to help me regain confidence in my skills and help me get employed faster."

Pat commenced an assistance in nursing certificate III course with 16 others. "I was the oldest person to ever do the course. The next oldest person was about half my age," Pat is proud to admit.

"I stuck it out through the whole course even though half the class dropped out. That just goes to show that age has no effect on a person's ability to acquire new skills and that we, mature age workers, are persistent in a way that the younger generations today aren't."

Soon after she completed the course, Pat was offered a casual position as an assistant nurse at a nursing home, which quickly turned into a permanent full time position.

"It feels great to be part of the work force again. I have always wanted to make a difference in people's lives and I am thankful that I am finally doing something where I can help others.

"It's a pity that more employers don't hire mature age workers. It took me a year to find a new job, but I think this experience has definitely been worth it. Not only has my confidence increased because of my new skills, but I have also proven to myself and everyone who doubted me that I am not too old to work and have a career change."

Asked if she has any advice for other mature aged job seekers, she says, "Never give up. It may seem like the world is against you, but don't let them make you believe that you're too old to have dreams. You're not."

Contact information:
info@jobfindcentre.com.au