Job Market Improving for Older Workers?

A recent analysis by an executive outplacement firm suggests that the job market for older workers in the Southland may not be as tough as people think.

Drake Beam Morin Inc. said that nearly half of its clients in the five-county area who are over 50 found jobs after searches lasting on average five months. However, Drake Beam said that older workers may have to settle for two part-time jobs instead of one, or consider changing industries.

Older workers have long complained about age discrimination, saying they are often targeted for layoffs because they tend to earn more. But some see this group as gaining more clout in the job market in the years ahead, as the graying of baby boomers continues.

A new Census Bureau report suggests that the 50-plus population will expand by 12 million people over the next 10 years, rising from 25.3 million in 1996 to 37.7 million in 2006. The growth, the bureau says, would represent more than half of the nation’s total population increase during the decade.

Don Lee covers workplace issues for The Times. He can be reached at (714) 966-7407 and at Don.Lee@latimes.com.