Plenty of job-search articles for new college graduates have appeared recently, but one group that may have gotten too little attention is the class of students who are attaining their first degrees at midlife. After reading my recent tips for teens, Carla M. wrote: "I am in need, and I suspect that I may not be the only person in the position I'm in, so I hope my question(s) can not only help me, but others like me.

"I am an older, nontraditional student and divorced mom of three. I delayed my education to take care of my family. Since my divorce in 1999, I've decided to return to complete my education; this fall will be my last as an undergrad student. I also expect to continue my education next fall (2009) to earn a master's.

"Here's my concern: How do I translate all my years of working experience and combine it with my undergrad degree, taking my age into consideration (I am over 40)?

"After graduating in the fall, I would like to seek out other opportunities — try to get some return on my education investment. Is there any advice you can offer me?"

Yes, indeed. The following are tips for Carla and other graduates at midlife or beyond.

1. Review your reasons for getting this degree. When you started classes, was your plan to get two degrees, like Carla? Or was it to parlay your new credential into a higher position at work? Perhaps you wanted the degree to help you launch a career or change vocations.

Whatever your original goals, it's important to review them and to make any adjustments suggested by your situation. Consider factors such as your current employer and opportunities that may be available there as well as issues of relocation or even health concerns that may have arisen since you made your original plans.

2. Target your job search. If career development prompted your return to school, you need to choose specific companies and job areas to pursue. If the goal is to advance with your current employer, determine which department or manager to approach.

AMY LINDGREN

WORKING STRATEGIES

3. Build your image in the new field. For an internal job search, your task is to let people know you're the same as always — a good worker, in tune with your company, etc. — but also "new," with a fresh set of skills and knowledge to share. Begin by writing a note to your boss and the human resources department to inform them of your new degree and capabilities. Then ask friends in the company to tell you about new internal opportunities.

But what if you're planning to switch companies? In many ways, outside job searches are easier, because you're starting fresh with your new identity. In this case, you need to develop your network in your chosen field while also contacting companies that interest you.

For both internal and external positions, it's smart to join professional associations and to connect with others who do the same work.

4. Revise your résumé to reflect the new you. You just spent thousands of dollars and countless late nights to get this credential, so don't take shortcuts on this step. The careless way to revise your résumé would be to drop the new degree on the page, without otherwise adjusting the document. The better approach is to invest the time and (maybe) money to tell your story well.

Older graduates, especially, need well-focused, clear résumés. The challenge for these workers is to enumerate the new skills and knowledge as well as the highlights from previous careers — all without confusing or overwhelming the reader.

Employers do want to know about your past work, but, if it was in a different field, they're primarily interested in how you'll apply that experience to your new career.

To make this task easier, enlist a résumé writer or use a good book that has examples of résumés for career-changers.

5. Throw yourself a party and invite business associates. Unless you're trying to sneak under the radar by earning a credential everyone assumed you already had, you should include work associates in your celebration.

There are three reasons for this. First, it's a fun way to tell others about your achievement. Second, the public acknowledgment might spur activity on your behalf. When your supervisor realizes that you are building your career, for example, he or she might decide to lend a hand, rather than lose you.

The third reason? You've earned this party and the accolades of your colleagues. Congratulations!

- Amy Lindgren owns Prototype Career Service, a career consulting firm in St. Paul, Minn. She can be reached at alindgren@prototypecaree rservice.com or at 1071 W. Seventh St., St. Paul, MN 55102.