10 Tips to Overcome Ageism in the Job Hunt: For the Young, the Old, and Everyone in Between!

Ageism.

It can be a big, bad, scary word… but it really doesn’t have to be! I thought I would take a moment to talk about ageism in the job search.

Let me start off by saying, I KNOW I’m going to get a lot of flak on this one … and secondly, I know that sadly, Ageism in the job search does exist.

BUT I take a slightly different approach. More of a cocky – confident approach to dealing with ageism in the job search.

Over the last 18 years of writing resumes, I have helped a LOT (like a LOT a LOT) of 50+ yr old job seekers get past this issue.

Want to know a few secrets?

It’s not about leaving dates off of a resume.
It’s not about making your resume functional to hide your career timeline.
It’s not about ignoring how the job search works RIGHT NOW.

THE FIX:

Here’s the thing, I know a lot of people say leave dates off… but unless you have a VERY good reason, and honestly, I cannot think of one that would suffice, leave dates on a resume.

Hiding your career timeline by mish-mashing it into a skills based functional resume is also a red flag. What else might you be hiding that has happened in your career? Fill your resume with RESULT-BASED ACCOMPLISHMENTS on a chronological resume for best results.

Make them say WOW.

Preparing for the job search and how it is now is very crucial to success. I know your old resume might have worked before. I know many people don’t like to use social media like LinkedIn. But sometimes you have just gotta go with the flow, and be ready!

Even with the right strategies, it’s a challenge you can confidently navigate. Here are ten uplifting tips to turn age into an asset, not an obstacle!

Here are the 10 Tips to Overcome Ageism

Embrace Your Age, Don’t Erase It:
Whether you’re 20 or 60, wear your age like a badge of honor. Your age is filled with experiences, learnings, and tales that only you can tell. Remember, your unique perspective, molded by your age and experiences, is invaluable!
Continuous Learning:
Age is but a number when your skills are up-to-date. Attend workshops, online courses, or seminars. The willingness to learn and adapt showcases your agility, irrespective of age.
Network Beyond Age Bounds:
Attend events, virtual or in-person, and connect with individuals from varied age groups. Sharing experiences with a diverse group will broaden your horizons and may even provide opportunities you hadn’t considered.
Highlight Achievements Over Years:
Whether you’ve been in the industry for 3 years or 30, focus on your tangible results. The “Impact Grid” on your resume can be a game-changer; it’s where roles meet results in a dazzling dance.
Adopt Modern Job Search Techniques:
No matter your age, always stay in the loop. From LinkedIn networking to using advanced job search platforms, being tech-savvy signals that you’re in tune with today’s professional landscape.
Seek Age-Inclusive Employers:
Research and aim for companies that value diversity, including age. Many organizations pride themselves on having a multi-generational workforce, recognizing the myriad strengths it brings.
Mindset Magic:
A positive, can-do attitude is infectious. Approach your job search with enthusiasm and a zest for what lies ahead. Employers value candidates who bring energy and a positive mindset to the table, irrespective of age.
Refine Your Digital Footprint:
Create or polish your LinkedIn profile, ensuring it resonates with your professional persona. Sharing insightful articles or posts periodically can highlight your engagement and knowledge in your field.
Mentoring Matters:
If you’re more experienced, consider becoming a mentor. If you’re younger, seek mentorship. This reciprocal relationship is a testament to the value each age bracket brings.
Prepare & Practice Your Narrative:
Whether in networking events or interviews, be ready to discuss your age in a constructive manner. Frame your age-related experiences as strengths, be it the adaptability of youth or the wisdom of experience.

Remember, the vibrancy of youth and the wisdom of age are both tremendous assets in the job search. Celebrate where you are in your journey, equip yourself with the right strategies, and watch as doors swing wide open for you!

At the end of the day, it’s all about confidence and showing off your impressive expertise.

Remember these 3 things:

If you’ve got it…flaunt it!

Don’t be scared to be the BEST candidate.

Be cocky, confident and tell them how DARN good you are!