How to overcome age discrimination in your job search

Even if you are over 50 you have to remember that you have a lot to offer an employer, which puts you at an advantage over a younger person. You have experience, knowledge, judgement, fewer childcare issues and a more flexible schedule. So stay positive, communicate why you are the solution to an employer’s problem, and present yourself with energy, enthusiasm and confidence.

So, what are some of the myths surrounding hiring someone who is over 50, and how do you counter them?

Can’t take direction from a younger boss – You need to show that you can take direction and learn new things and that you are open to constructive criticism.
Don’t do technology – It is important for you to be up-to-date with technology such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Microsoft Office.
Resistant to change – Show that you have kept updated in your field with courses, webinars, seminars, continuing education and training.
Have no energy – Project energy; show that you are constantly learning, talk about fitness routines and hobbies like hiking, biking, skiing, or volunteering.
Have health problems – If you are active you are less likely to have health problems, but if you do, don’t talk about them in an interview.
Too expensive – An employer will assume that you want to be paid as much as in your previous position, so emphasise that you want to work and contribute and that money is a secondary consideration
Overqualified for the position – State that you do have a lot of experience, but that’s an advantage as you have done this before, you understand what it takes to be successful, and you can do it again for the employer.

How can you overcome age discrimination?

Make your resume ageless:
- Don’t include phrases like “more than 25 years” in your resume profile (unless that is what an employer is asking for) – Better to say extensive, broad, or several years.
- Don’t call yourself “seasoned.”
- Don’t use a dated resume format or template– Use achievement-based bullets rather than responsibility-focused job descriptions. Employers want to see how you cut costs, accelerated revenue, slashed inefficiencies, improved productivity, enhanced processes, and generated profits.
- Don’t place an objective at the top of your resume – Employers don’t care what you’re looking for at the application stage; instead use a Profile or Executive Summary that highlights how your skills and experience can add value and solve issues within their organization
- Remove dates from degrees or designations, and only go back 10 – 15 years with your work experience.
- Tailor and tone your resume to align with specific job requirements. – You don’t want to over-embellish and make yourself look too expensive to hire.

Interview effectively:
- Present an energetic image with stylish and up-to-date hair and clothes and project confidence with erect posture, firm handshake, smile and strong voice.
- Show that your years of experience, knowledge and skills make you a resource who can solve problems and come up with solutions.
- Offer guidance –Outline how you can mentor a younger manager.
- Think short term – Sell yourself as an expert who can come in and fix things quickly and efficiently. Downplay long range solutions, and focus on clear, results-oriented achievements for short-range problems.
- Talk money – Have examples of how you can solve revenue or productivity problems.
- A younger boss may feel awkward giving you direction so project the attitude of “I haven’t done this job before” or “I haven’t worked for this company before, so I’m sure there’s a lot I could learn from you and I am excited to be learning it.”
- Rather than dwell on the past, talk about how your skills can help the employer now and in the future. Show that you are up to date with skills and technology.
- Change perception – Turn conversation away from age by focusing on your expertise in the field, and how that makes you a good match for the job.
- Present yourself as positive and skilled, but willing to learn new things every day, and generally open to new experiences.
- Answer any ”overqualified” concerns with job factors that attract you, such as less stress, fewer hours, miss the hands-on work, shorter commute, less travel, or even better, that it’s something you’ve always wanted to do.
- End strong – Thank the employer and restate your interest in the position.