Ageism; not an urban legend. What you can do about it in your job search.

Fact #1)Ageism; not an urban legend.  It does exist. 

I wish it didn’t.   I’ve never had a manager discriminate because of age in my recruiting career that I’m aware of, but I know it is out there.   I’m not suggesting that every time you don’t get the job (if over 50) that you are being discriminated against, but I recognize that ageism is an issue.

Fact #2)It isn’t fair. 

With age comes wisdom;  you are intelligent, have great experience, can come up to speed quickly, can help mentor others, etc.  I know.  Many Hiring Managers value experience in a more “seasoned” individual.  

Fact #3)There are certain steps that you can take to combat it, but you can’t control it. 

What can you do?  Be Relevant, Current, Active, Engaged.

1) Be relevant.  Get current, stay current in your field.  You become more valuable the more you know.   If your field/job is going away make sure that your skills are transferrable.  There is more information on-line for research and reading than ever before.  Go find what is applicable to your career.  Get some training (free webinars online), take a class…learn something new and keep learning.

2) Does your attitude age you?   Are you stuck in a rut?  How open are you to new ideas, new people, new experiences?  I wouldn’t hire anyone at any age who isn’t constantly learning and growing.

3) Does your wardrobe or hairstyle age you?  If yes then update.  Ask someone with a classic style to help you.   Pick up a magazine, ask salespeople at stores to help you.  You don’t have to be trendy, but you should present well.  Yes, money may be tight but there are ways; their are consignment shops out there, you can borrow something for an interview, etc.

4) Be visible; social media.  Learn about the latest and greatest tools that are free. Notice the word *FREE*.   This is valuable experience that will benefit your next employer.  It shows that you can “teach the old dog new tricks.”

5) Resume.  Make sure that college graduations dates are not listed unless recent, that any job experience older than 20 years is listed under the heading “Earlier Experience” or “Background In”. 

6) Adjust salary expectations…sorry I hate this one as well.  Don’t bankrupt yourself, but flexible is good.

7) Have a great answer for the question “What have you been doing since you were laid off?”  If looking for a job is your answer it probably won’t be enough.  Get out there and get involved and put the experience on your resumé. 

I hope that this helps and I wish you the best of luck in your job search.

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