If you’re over 40 and seeking
employment, it may seem like you’re hitting wall after brick wall. Believe it
or not, in some high-tech circles, 35 is even considered mature in our youth
oriented culture.
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Modular Factory Road Warrior racing to keep an appointment |
Sometimes we Boomers watch as the doors and windows appear to
close all around us. As the walls close in, we feel it limits our prospects for
employment even more. But don’t despair. No need to break out the Just For Men
or Preference by Loreal hair color or even get a Lifestyle Lift just yet,
unless you want to. Instead you might want to consider the following.
Note: the modular factory just might be the best place if you have sales experience, a good knowledge of construction and strong recognition among the builders in your area. You will probably be asked to work “commission only” after a short time on a base salary.
Confront age discrimination
straight out of the gate. It‘s important to bear in mind that you may actually
encounter subtle or maybe not so subtle age discrimination in an interview. If
a prospective employer makes a comment such as, “We are looking for someone
vibrant and energetic” (or a similar comment), have a smart retort of your own
in mind, so you won‘t be left speechless or react defensively. Don’t miss your
stride. Have a comeback such as, “If you were to ask my colleagues at my last
job they would tell you I can keep up with the best of them. I pride myself on
my vigor and energy on the job. I’m always on the cutting edge of new
technology. I have a wide range of experience in the industry and work very
effectively.” You can even give an example.
Highlight the benefits of
being an older worker. There’s no need to deliberately hide your age. You’ll be
found out sooner or later anyway. Your wisdom and experience in life and in
your profession is something to be proud of. You have probably attained and
climbed the ladder of success to the level you have hoped to attain. Many times
older workers are the ones who will be the loyal ones, having achieved the
status they have been striving for during their working career. With that said,
many younger workers are making the ascent up their career ladder and may jump
to the next rung of another employer at the next best opportunity. Who can
blame them? Let a prospective employer know you will be the stable one; a loyal
team player who wants to work and remain with their organization for the long
haul. Emphasize the positive and show your strengths. Never go on the defensive
or be ashamed of your age and wisdom. The elephant in the room may be that
you’re a seasoned worker but let it work in your favor instead of against you.
Confront it with grace before someone else dares to do otherwise.
It is also important to
remain flexible. Don’t be afraid to take a couple of steps back for the
opportunity to move a few steps forward to land a position. Maybe you will go
back to something you did 15 years ago, in order to have doors open for you.
Perhaps you will be overqualified for the job. It may not be the perfect
position but it is a position. Consider the alternative. Clearly emphasize your
experience and expertise, as well as adaptability. Do not downplay your
accomplishments. Keep in mind it is important to let them know you are a
flexible team player. Be clear and upfront so you can find the best position
that fits you faster so you don‘t waste your time or theirs.
Another twist is to consider
telecommuting positions. Most employers appreciate a 40 + employee because of
their experience in these type of positions. This gives them the advantage over
youthful job seekers. There has been a 400% increase in telecommuting jobs
since 2007. Most of these positions are posted online and much of the
interviewing is done over the phone. All prospective employers see is your
excellent resume and skill sets as opposed to
potentially judging you because of your age. You can find telecommuting
jobs in almost any industry.
Last but not least, you might
want to consider investing in a makeover. It doesn’t have to be a drastic one.
Starting a new job is the perfect time to make a change in your appearance as
well. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut in a look that is stagnate and outdated.
Employers like well polished employees who don‘t look like they‘re stuck in the
past. They don’t want someone who looks like they hit their prime during the
George H.W. Bush Administration and is stuck there.
Perhaps you can update your
wardrobe with a few new pieces, lose that last ten pounds and get a trendy new
hairstyle. All of which can help you look and feel younger. It may sound
frivolous but it can be a real confidence builder. You know that when you look
good, you feel good, and it shows. So don’t be afraid to try something new. And
yes, if you’re so inclined, this might just be the time to try Just For Men or
Preference by L’oreal hair color. Oh, and by the way, if all else fails, you
can throw in a Lifestyle Lift for good measure. Not that you need to but it
sure can’t hurt.
Cathy Sage is President of
Robert Sage Careers, LLC; an Executive Search Firm and Job Board Publisher that
specializes in the Factory-Built Structures Industries. Cathy can be reached at
(727) 504-5350 or at cathy@robertsagecareers.com. For more
information about the company and to visit the job board access;
http://www.robertsagecareers.com
2 comments:
Hey Coach, how long have you been riding motorcycles?
That's not me. It's a local lawyer chasing an ambulance.
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