There’s a story on CNN.com today about internships –  not for college students, but for workers 50 and over. Brilliant. Why should it be any different for anyone, age or otherwise?  It all comes down to networking, finding a way to get your foot in the door, then working hard and proving the company needs you, showing your value.

I’ve heard several ‘older’ workers lately lamenting the lack of jobs, worrying about their futures.  However, when I ask the questions below, the answers are usually the same – no.  Didn’t have time. Been meaning to do that. Planned to do that next week.

Need a job? Need to change jobs? Looking to advance where you are?

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you have a mentor?
Do you have a specific goal?
Have you called anyone to make contact today and offered them something instead of just asking for something?
Have you followed up with at least one person you met this week – with a call, a note, info you promised?
Have you gone to an event this week and met new people, networked new relationships?
Have you asked for what you need?

That’s what these ‘older’ workers are doing in the CNN story. Making the call, asking for the internship, learning something new with a mentor, networking and finding a way to keep working. Hustle folks, hustle.

And, answer the questions with ‘yes.’

While I watch and listen to all the yelling, posturing, pontificating, etc., I can only think one thing.  Sounds like my kids when they start to protest and whine “It’s not my fault.  I didn’t do it.  Why do I have to help?” and I say “I know it’s not your fault.  I know you didn’t do it.  But you have to help clean up this mess because we help each other and that’s the right thing to do.  Plus we’ll get it done faster and be back doing what we want to do sooner.”