Two million + people work for the federal government and 40% will be retirement eligible between now and five short years from now. Upwards of three-quarters of a million jobs will need to be back-filled.

The federal government, unlike much of the economic engine of American business – the private sector – offers great pay (pay levels compare with or exceed private sector pay), terrific benefits and pensions. Oh… yes… some people still have pensions in this country. Most of these people are federal or state workers. Many, if not most, of these folks will take their robust pensions as soon as they are eligible leaving plenty of room for mid-career professionals to back-fill their jobs.

The "way in" is lengthy. Now is the time to build relationships, to learn the application game and to begin a process of learning how to transfer your skills and education to this segment of America's working population. The website for federal jobs is www.USAjobs.gov.

Most mature folks have endured death of friends and loved ones, divorce, success, setbacks or failure. Older individuals have shown the power of their resiliency in their personal and work lives. It is time itself that tests our ability to overcome the challenges of change and to thrive in the world as it is NOW; NOT as it once was!

TIPS FOR JOB SEEKERS