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Mar
4
Job Hunting Over 40
Posted by 4T at 09:38 | Filed In Life After 40, Work After 40
Job hunting at any age is nerve wracking, but when you are over 40 it is even more challenging and stressful. Everywhere you look, magazines, TV, ads, internet, the emphasis is on youth. Hiring professionals tend to look at younger employees as new blood, initiating innovative ideas, and bringing fresh energy to the company. But that doesn’t mean that older job seekers have to constantly defend their age. Use an offensive strategy, you have the experience!
First, be mentally prepared to compete with younger job seekers. Confidence, confidence, confidence. Mature job applicants have more experience in dealing with a wide variety of people, have a broader prospective on life, and a mature judgment on business matters. Age gives you valuable life and work experience that you have to communicate through your resume and interview. Take pride in being a seasoned professional and mention specific contributions or solutions you have made in previous jobs.
Employers tend to be concerned with health issues that can sometimes be brought on by old age. Make sure prospective employers know that you are physically active; make note of baseball, softball, hockey, tennis whatever teams you are a part of. Try to rid yourself of bad habits, like smoking, drugs, excessive drinking, even overeating. Smokers or alcohol breath can be a kiss of death during an interview, and drug testing is almost always mandatory. A trim body signifies youthfulness, and a healthy outlook on life. Before going on a interview, update your wardrobe. Invest in some contemporary suits that fit well. Women should update their hair styles and makeup. Men should think about eliminating gray hair. Keep current; read journals and business sites, take classes, update your technology skills, even volunteer.
On interview day, show up early and well rested; exude confidence, walk with pep, sit up tall. You may not be the youngest applicant but employers may look at you as not needing a lot of training. Be confident in what you have done and what you can do, but be flexible and open to new ideas.
