Below are 5 important tips that can help alleviate the age-related challenges you might face in your job search.
Tip #1: Limit the experience listed on your resume.
- Include experience up to:
- 15 years for non-technical jobs
- 10 years for technical jobs
- 5 years for high-tech jobs
- Include relevant work history or skills (no dates) beyond that timeframe in a Summary of Qualifications or Other Experience section within your resume.
- Exclude dates whenever possible in other areas – including your high school graduation year!
Tip #2: Keep Your Skills Current
- Most important skills to have – computer skills! Know how to:
- Operate basic Microsoft programs
- Send an email
- Navigate the Internet
- Aim to get your typing speed to at least 40 wpm
Tip #3: Update Your Look!
- Fashion – update your interview wardrobe to current styles; no bell bottoms or fringe!
- Hairstyle – and updated haircut can do wonders for your image as well as your self-esteem!
- Eyeglasses – even a new, updated pair of eyeglasses can help create the modern professional look you want.
Tip #4: Keep it Professional
It’s important to keep “personal” information out of your cover letter or resume. These are examples of what NOT to include:
- Birthdate
- Details about your family
- Religion
- Political affiliation
- Disability status
- Or anything else that’s not relevant to the job! Knowing this information too soon may cause the employer to draw conclusions about your age and personal life!
Tip #5: Show Your Flexibility and Willingness to Learn!
- Make sure your job skills and credentials are kept current, especially if you’ve been out of work for a while.
- In your cover letter, be sure to include your interest in learning and willingness to be flexible.
- You may have what a younger worker lacks! Don’t be afraid to highlight all your relevant experience.
A Few Final Tips
- Be confident! If you’re unsure of how your skills and abilities will fit into the workplace, it will undoubtedly show!
- Engage employers with confidence and have a plan for how you’ll portray your experience.
- Focus on the benefits of the skills and experience you offer.
- Don’t forget that life skills count, too; especially if they relate to interacting with people.
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