Many older job-seekers' interview tips revolve around being well-prepared and asking questions that will show your interest in the job. It's also important to dress in a way that gives off energy and positivity. These tips will help you impress your interviewer! Continue reading for more tips for job seekers over 50.
Positivity
For older job seekers, it is often difficult to find a job. Although the employment laws prohibit employers from discriminating on the basis age, unconscious bias still plays some role in the hiring process. Regardless of age, there are some tips for older job seekers that will help them land the job of their dreams.
A positive attitude is the first tip. Employers want people who are positive, optimistic and work well with other people. Negativity will only harm your chances for getting the job.
Humility
Interviewers will appreciate a candidate who is humble in demonstrating humility. The best employees don't show egotism or self-serving. They have a genuine desire to help others. It's also helpful to give examples of past accomplishments and achievements.
Candidates should be able to showcase their determination and dedication during interviews. He or she should also demonstrate that he or she values long-term professional and friendly relationships with coworkers and employees. This shows humility, dedication and commitment.
Work history is subject to a time limit
Many industries allow you the privilege of listing your most recent ten to 15 years of work experience. But, keeping your work history to five to 10 years is best. This will help you present your most recent skills and achievements. Your work history will not reflect your most recent achievements and highlight previous roles. However, it can be a way to demonstrate your credibility and progress in your field by including older work histories.
It is possible to prove age discrimination in today's job marketplace, but it is still a real problem. The biggest generation of ever born, the Baby Boomers, began their first job in mid-sixties. They were poised to lead the workforce through the 1970s, 1980s. ADEA was established in 1967 in order to protect those who were less fortunate than previous generations. The Millennial generation has outnumbered both Gen X and Baby Boomers in terms of population, and Gen Z is the new wave of talent. This new generation is characterized by their tech savvy and modern skill sets. There's no reason to ignore them when searching for employment.
Dressing in a way that exudes energy
It can be difficult to dress in a way that exudes energy for older job-seekers. CultureIQ recently found that more than half of Americans feel comfortable wearing jeans while at work. Nearly one-third also feel the same about sneakers. While these are valid options for younger workers, older workers might want to err on the side of formality. In addition, formal clothing can convey to coworkers that you want to be a part of a more hierarchical structure.
Transferable skills
Transferable skills are skills that you can use in many different job fields. For example, if you've been a salesperson in a retail environment, you can transfer your sales experience to another type of retail job. Or, you can learn a new skill and use it to advance your career. Either way, you can leverage your transferable skills to increase your chances of landing a new job.
While younger workers often have the perception that companies are only looking to hire young people, recent labor statistics show a significant increase in employment opportunities for older people. Do not let age hold you back from your job search. Employers value maturity and experience, so be sure to highlight these attributes.