Job hunting can be a frustrating and painful experience.

A new study from the MetLife Mature Market Institute reports that many Americans over the age of 55 plan to work at least until age 69, but that most who look for a job face challenges in finding one. Yet, Department of Labor projections indicate that the 55+ population will account for almost 93% of the net increase in the U.S. Civilian Labor Force between 2006-2016.

The research found in Buddy, Can You Spare a Job? The New Realities of the Job Market for Aging Baby Boomers paints a sobering picture, but also contains essential insights and advice for older job-seekers. It combines a survey of 1,200+ individuals ages 55 to 70 with in-depth interviews of both job-seekers and employment experts.

Conducted in collaboration with David DeLong & Associates, a research and consulting firm with expertise in workforce issues, the data suggests that to be successful older job-hunters must adapt to the changing workplace by adopting new attitudes, specific skills and a fresh set of expectations.

"The fact that so many job-seekers over 55 have difficulty finding work means such individuals need new solutions to compete," said Sandra Timmermann, Ed.D, director of the MetLife Mature Market Institute. "Largely due to the economy, many of those looking for work may not have the money to retire. For this group, finding work is a necessity and they would benefit by making major changes in what they present about themselves to potential employers."

The study lists "The Significant Seven" -the most common mistakes older Americans make when they are looking for a job, as exemplified by the following common faulty assumptions:

• "I'll just do what I was doing before."

• "My experience speaks for itself."

• "I don't have time for this touchy-feely stuff about