Don’t let your age affect your chances of landing that job.
Older workers encounter more difficulty finding work after being laid off as compared to their younger counterparts. According to the data of the US Department of Labor, the re-employment rate in 2006 for workers aged 25 to 54 was 75%. On the other hand, only 61% of older workers (those between ages 55 and 64) managed to get another job within a one-year period. To make matters worse, there is a rising trend in mass layoffs among older workers.
Considering the gravity of the situation, what should you do if you find yourself in this situation? How can you possibly compete with the younger set who are eager to work for far less money, are more aggressive and not troubled with any age-related health complications and are significantly more tech-savvy? Here are some tips that can help you in your job search.
Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired: Some Tips to Consider
- Create a winning resume. Instead of highlighting your work history (and divulging your age by doing so), you should focus on how your qualifications and experience make you the ideal candidate for the job. Use a functional or combination resume to achieve your purpose.
- Try to be more tech-savvy. Don’t let your younger competitors get an edge over you. Get up to speed on technology. You can start by creating a LinkedIn and Facebook profile. It is never too late to learn so consider taking a course or a workshop to hone your technology skills.
- How you look counts ? a lot. Make sure you look good since it is the first thing your prospective employers see. Wear fashionable clothes and update your hairstyle (just make sure it suits your age). This can help prospective employers get the impression that you are reasonably fit and have the energy needed to get the job done.
- Ace the interview. Your interview can make or break your chances of getting a new job so make sure you prepare for it ahead of time. Identify the skills that you need in the job you are considering and think of three to five specific instances in your previous jobs where you have used these skills to create a significant impact.
- Use your network. This is the best time to put your business contacts to good use. Consider asking the people in your network for tips about the job you are considering. Having a wide network can also tip the scales in your favor since your prospective employers may see that they could be a great asset for the company.
Follow these tips and you can surely beat the odds and land a job despite your age.
