Job-seekers who are over 50 often wonder whether their age will make it more difficult to find their next role. However, Corinne Mills, managing director of one of the UKs leading career coaching companies says that:
Employers want to hire the best person for the job. Age is less important than whether the person has the right skills, experience and personality for the role
We asked Corinne, who has career coached many mature candidates, for her tips on how older workers can persuade an employer they are a good person to hire.
Since 2006, it has been unlawful for employers to discriminate against anyone because of their age. However, it is true to say that some employers have preconceived views about older workers. The most common negative views include older workers being seen as outdated, less willing to learn or adapt to change and not as keenly motivated as their younger colleagues. Frequently poor IT skills can put more mature workers at a disadvantage to their younger counterparts.
It is helpful to address these concerns head-on in your CV and at an interview so that any negative stereotypes are challenged early-on.
Tips for your CV
If you feel your age may be a distraction then there a couple of things you can do. Firstly, leave your date of birth off your CV - its not essential. Secondly, include jobs only from the last 20 years rather than listing every job you have ever done, especially if your last few jobs are the most relevant.
Alternatively use what is called a Functional CV format where on the first page you provide bullet-points of all the skills, experience and qualifications you have that are appropriate to the job in question. Dates do not need to be included. A brief employment history can then go on the second page which lists previous employers and dates. Given that most employers have decided whether you are going to be shortlisted before they read the second page, this is going to give you an advantage.
Make sure you can show your skills are bang up to date. Include details of any relevant recent training you have undertaken, mention that you regularly read the trade press etc. Use the current jargon for your field, with buzz-words to show your understanding of current trends. An employer will want to see that you are continually up-dating your knowledge.
Good IT skills are necessary almost regardless of which job you are applying for. If your skills are fairly basic, then immediately enrol yourself on a course to improve them. Again this will show your willingness to learn as well as developing necessary skills.
Its important to show in your CV that you have energy and enthusiasm. One of the ways that you can do this is by using high energy words in your CV like Led, Developed... etc You can also include under Hobbies any sports activities to show you are fit and well.
Interviews
Employees represent their employers business and so they will choose people who look the part. Whether you are male or female, if your image is old-fashioned, stuffy or frumpy, then rightly or wrongly, you will give an impression of being outdated.
Ask the opinion of someone you trust to give you an honest answer. Often a new haircut can transform an image. A new interview outfit is a worthwhile investment. If you are unsure about what to buy, then there are free personal shoppers available in many of the department stores who can help you update your look. Quite simply, if your image is modern, then your actual age is less relevant.
Where are the Jobs?
Target jobs and industries where they are most likely to make use of your extensive experience. Youth-orientated industries like advertising are not going to be a good first choice, but sectors where your maturity will be an asset e.g. healthcare organisations, charities, or advisory roles will be very suitable.
Dont forget to network with everyone you know and meet, asking them if they have any advice on who to approach. While no-one will give you a job just because they know you, networking is a great way to hear about companies who may have vacancies and who you can approach directly.
Also remember that there are other job options. Starting your own business, providing consultancy or running a franchise are all popular options for the more mature worker. You can even consider a portfolio career made up of a series of different jobs and activities.
And finally
Employers want candidates who can do the job and fit in with their organisation as easily as possible. Proving your skills and abilities in your CV and at interview is important for every candidate. However, more mature workers also need to pay special attention to ensuring they are seen as up to date, quick to learn, flexible, IT literate, fit and healthy. In this way they can quickly dispel any negative stereotypes and focus the employer on what they have to offer.
Top Tips
Update your skills including IT
Use energy words on CV
List active sports or hobbies
Leave out DOB on CV
Only list jobs going back 20 years
Update your image
Network
