Best wishes for the New Year. Most of the questions I receive deal with finding a job. The questions come from readers who have been seeking a job for a long period of time or others relatively new to the job market. Every now and then I receive a personal finance question which I do not answer because the subject matter is not the reason for this column. Here are some recent questions I received.

How do I find a job when I have been without one for the last two years?

Finding a job is difficult. There are many factors that affect your ability to find a job. Some are under your control while others are due to economic situations in the industry in which you are seeking employment. Yet, there are some basics to job hunting which include having an up-to-date resume, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, identifying the jobs where you have the appropriate education, experience and skills, and networking. You have to budget time for these activities. You may need to use a library so that you have access to information on companies. You have to read the newspaper and get on the internet to learn about companies looking for employees and new companies coming into the area. Sometimes you need to revise your resume as opportunities become available. Also, you have to tell others you are looking for a job so that they can bring opportunities to your attention. One of the most difficult tasks is to differentiate yourself or your resume will not be read. For professional and management positions, you must stay active in your profession by attending meetings and reading appropriate publications. Sometimes volunteering for community activities helps you meet people who are aware of job openings. Finding a job requires hard work, research, persistence, entrepreneurship and help from others.

Does age work against me in finding a job?

By law it should not. However, many companies hire younger workers to save on salary and benefits. This situation makes it difficult for more experienced workers to find a job unless they have skills or degrees which are in short supply. Some of these experienced workers are hired for part-time positions or to work on special projects. It is unfortunate that companies do not take advantage of this work force. These workers bring a work ethic to the situation which comes with age. If you feel age is working against you, look at other jobs where you can use your skills or consider going into business for yourself. It is not unusual to have three or four different careers in one’s lifetime. A new career often brings greater personal satisfaction. And, if you want to stay in the same industry, use networking to help you find a job. Market your experience and accomplishments. Another company may be willing to put age aside to hire an employee who adds value to the company the first day on the job. I am told the age 50’s of today are the 40’s of yesterday.

How do I explain gaps in my work history?

Be honest. Talk about what you did and what you learned during these gaps. Sometimes these experiences can make you a more valuable employee to an organization. Many people take time off from work to go to school, raise a family, get involved in community and/or religious activities, do something they believe they will not be able to do later in life or because of illness and family responsibilities. These situations are common and should not be hidden on the resume. Gaps also exist because of changes in ownership of companies and reductions in workforce brought about by financial factors. Since the purpose of the interview is to get the job and for you to learn about the organization it is also important for the organization to learn about you. Most interviews will be interested in hearing about gaps in work history and ask you what you did. Also, make sure your references are aware of these gaps since they may be asked why the gaps existed. You should use the gaps as a reason why you should be hired if they added to your personal strengths.

How do I compete with college graduates for a job when I do not have a degree?

There are many types of formal and informal education opportunities available to people of all ages and experience. Some jobs do not require a college education, however, the lack of a degree will have an impact on your earning ability. It is important to show potential employers you are willing to learn and you have the skills and experience to perform the job. Some technical jobs require licensing rather than a degree. Other jobs require attending special classes. By following through with these requirements, you show a potential employer you are serious about education. With so many ways of furthering your education, by enrollment in courses or on the internet, education is available to everybody no matter where they live or the time of the day they would like to take a course. Many large companies also offer their own personal development courses or provide funds to take special education programs.. When you stop learning, you lose your advantage in the work force. Invest in further education by staying current. Past work experience and your references will also help you compete against college graduates.

I get interviews but I do not get the job. What am I doing wrong?

You need to think about what is happening at the interview from your point of view – how you come across to the interviewer? Your resume is getting you the interview while your communication skills are stopping you from getting hired. Ask for honest feedback from the interviewer. Many interviewers will tell you why you did not get the job and go over your qualifications. Listen carefully and do not become argumentative. You want to learn from every interview. Make sure your resume does not exaggerate your accomplishments. Many companies look for individuals who can become team players rather than an individual who takes credit for everything. Look at yourself and make sure you have no habits that detract from your strengths. Talk to friends and family about how you come across. All of us have things about us that prevent us from being perfect.