Too Old, Too Young

At some point in almost everyone’s job search, the age issue will be an issue. Or at least they will make it an issue. A young person will complain they can’t connect with work because they are too young and have no experience. A mature person will complain they are too old and perceived as too expensive and THEY can not connect with work. However before you blame your age, take a look in the mirror. Your personal look should be professional as it applies to the work you are going after. This is not about young people trying to look older or older people trying to look younger. It is about looking professional.

Now take a look at your résumé. If you’re sending out a résumé filled with information about past jobs the employer doesn’t care about, or outdated accomplishments there may be a problem. Make sure the résumé is targeted to the job you are after with only the information that matters. Mature workers should be careful with how far back they should go on a résumé. Some work is outdated due to changes in technology.

More often than not, if you make age an issue, it will be one. Present yourself as a confident professional and someone will give you a shot, no matter how old you are.

Glen Slingerland Skills 101/Job Delopment