“Finding new work at my age could have been difficult. But I did it. ”

Willem-Moerland-Dynamisch-Bureau
When I knew that I would lose my job due to a dismissal situation, I searched the internet for outplacement agencies. The Dynamisch Bureau website definitely stood out. I had an introduction conversation with five agencies and I felt most at home at Dynamic Bureau.

My coach did not have an opinion staight away, listened well and did not come up with a detailed plan. I liked that a lot. I normally approach things like this: ‘if it cannot be done as it should be done, it should be done as it can be done’. A detailed route is too constricting for me, so I liked this way of working.

I had never been fired and I was like “what’s going on here?” You often hear that finding a job at the age of 60 is very difficult. But sitting at home for months did not appeal to me at all and I wanted to get to work as soon as possible. I now work in the hospital where I worked for 23 years in the past and I am very satisfied with that. I feel at home and I work 4 days a week instead of 6 days, as I did in my previous job. The salary is considerably lower, but more than enough to make a good living out of it.

In the process I was able to keep control. I also liked that there was enough room to discuss matters that were not directly related to finding work.

The recurring advice to be patient has helped me a lot. I got the confidence that it would work out in the long run. In addition, I have benefited a lot from helping me create a good resume and LinkedIn profile. My coach advised me to network which I didn’t really embrace at the beginning. But when I got serious about networking, I did end up getting a job!

My tips for others in a similar situation? First of all, try not to doubt yourself, remain critical and patient. In addition, start networking as soon as possible and find a good coach who can guide you in the process and whom you can talk to. I’d definitely recommend Dynamisch Bureau!

Last but not least, if you are out of work try to enjoy the freedom and the possibilities you have as much as possible. I have been working since I was 18 and had never been “off” for 6 months before my dismissal. During my time as a job seeker, I did a lot of work, but I have also been able to be a lot more social with my family and friends. That was definitely worth the effort and uncertainty!