Do You Believe Your Too Old To Compete In The Job Market?

Now more than ever people are working much later in life sometimes willingly sometimes not so. 

However no matter which way the cookie crumbles for you are you able to market yourself well to obtain that next job you want or gain employment after being made redundant?  The following are some tips for those in the 50 plus age group to ensure that you put your best foot forward.

1. Get very clear on what you can offer an employer. 
   What are the skills, experience and abilities that you believe you have to offer.
   
   
2. Make sure your CV is outstanding. 
   Get some advice if needed but make sure it really show cases who you are and what you can do. 
   
   
3. Take a fresh look at your appearance. 
   Let’s get real those who look healthy, trim and physically well presented will be noticed more positively.
   For men you may want to darken your hair and ensure any extra facial hair is trimmed away i.e. nose and eyebrows.
   For women do you need to freshen up your hair style and maybe cover some of those grays?  Don’t get me wrong gray can be very attractive but does it portray the image you want it to?  To freshen your make up style head to a department store and ask for a make over.  Let them know your going for job interviews so you would like more neutral business tones.  And head to a nail bar and have your nails done – quite a treat!
   For men and women check out your wardrobe.  Is it modern and up with today or is it a bit old fashioned, frumpy and comfortable?  Find someone to help you buy a new out fit, at least for your interviews.  It needn’t be expensive there are plenty of discount designer places.  Remember...you get ONE chance to make a good first impression.  Doesn’t your self confidence lift when you spend time on yourself?  Potential employers want to know that you are sharp and savvy and that means looking the part.
   
   
4. At interviews come across as energetic and happy. 
   Feel terrific and that will come across at interview.  Have good examples of your experience, how much you enjoyed your work and how you can add value.
   
   
5. Check your technical skills. 
   Are you up to date with computers, cell phones, social media etc?  If not get on to it!
   
   
6. Know your industries or industry. 
   Know what is happening and what is new, innovative and where the future is heading.
   
   
7. Recognise that if you have fears about finding a job, the fear is what will hold you back, not the fact that you are "old." 
   Doors will open through research and persistence, as well as determination because you really want what you are pursuing.   Ask yourself, "What is the worst thing that can happen if you don't get the result you are seeking (because you are afraid)? Usually the answer is 'I guess I have to try something else....'    Then ask, "What will happen if you don't try at all because of the fear?" The response is typically, 'Nothing.' Exactly.
   
   
8. Never apologise for your age. 
   With older age come experience, wisdom, dedication and commitment.   Focus on the contribution you can make and not on your age!  Mandela did his best work when he left prison, the Queen is still leading in her late 80’s.   

So face your fears, believe in yourself and the experience and value you have to offer your next potential employer.