Design a winning resumé, create an effective cover letter, research the appropriate job markets, network actively and move on. Yes, those are standard job search strategies for the active jobseeker. However, if you are 40 or older and looking to rejoin the workplace or move up in your career, there are a few extra strategies that you need to add to your arsenal.
You need to be first aware of the “age” stereotypes that influence the marketplace. They are a misrepresentation, but you can counter each concern head-on by preparing yourself and by demonstrating energy, passion and learning agility.
Their perception: You may resist working for a younger boss.
How you can counter: Clarify what it would take to succeed in the role. Will it be the ability to work with younger colleagues or will it be the result of specialized expertise, experience and skills? If the job requires experience and skills that you have, age should not be a problem. If, on the other hand, your age is a matter of concern for a young team, then this is your chance to share examples where you have successfully worked with younger teams in the past.
Their perception: You may lack energy.
How you can counter: It’s a biological fact that we slow down as we age. But you can show that you have the right amount of energy for the job, and you’re able to sustain it. If you workout at the gym, play in a volleyball league or recently participated in a 10K race, drop it into the conversation. It’s not the age; it’s the projection of energy and perception of health that matters. Demonstrate passion and show enthusiasm for the position.
Their perception: You may be prone to health challenges.
How you can counter: In order to be effective, you must project a healthy self, with a younger demeanour, energy and confidence. Make sure that your appearance says you’re looking after yourself well. Investing in your health and appearance will demonstrate a positive attitude, which will always count in your favour.
Their perception: You may resist change.
How you can counter: Confidently share that, on the contrary, it is mature people who are better at dealing with change in the marketplace and workplace because they’ve already learned to adapt to variables of every sort. Share stories from your past experiences to show how you changed to achieve new goals. Exhibit how you are staying fresh by talking about current trends. And demonstrate your technological savvy by talking about your Facebook posts and Twitter following.
Win the perception battle
Since the perception out there may be that candidates over 40 might bring less energy and be resistant to changing ways, it’s up to you to show them that is wrong. Here are a few more tips to win the perception battle:
There is no denying that if you are 40 or older, you have unique challenges in your job search, but you also have unique strengths. Let your maturity, experience and wisdom work in your favour. With adequate preparation and confidence, you can get back into the workforce and attract the employers who understand the value of a worker with maturity, life experience and skills.