Age Barrier/Older Job Seeker (Discrimination after retirement)
We understand the need to feel constructive. Age discrimination is all too real. In some instances, it can swing in your favor.
Some hiring managers prefer the wisdom, experience, and stability of the older applicants. Which is fantastic! But for the ones gunning for the younger hires, they just need to be persuaded to meet in you person - it's much easier to win them over in the interview.
So, first, get back out there and become active in the community again. Volunteer at events, join groups, network with friends/family who aren't yet retired. You want to be able to show how you've used your time away - that you've remained active and engaged. How you have kept your skills fine tuned and sharp.
For your resume, you will only list the last 10-15 years of relevant experience. You will tailor your resume to capture the attention of the hiring manager for the position you most want to be offered. Highlight the years of experience where you acquired the talents they are looking for. Prove that you are still passionate and hard working. Include certifications, side projects, statistics, soft and technical skills, and your level of expertise for each skill.
On your resume (and in the interview), you will also have to show that you are energetic, enthusiastic, a hard worker, and a quick learner. If you can put down sports or athletic activity on your resume, that can help.
Since you are seeking employment in your older years, with a bit of a gap in experience, you will need to convey your willingness to learn new skills. Demonstrate how you embrace emerging technology - highlight your dedication to growth with concrete examples. Explain how your ideas have helped the bottom line. Provide examples of how you are self-teaching.
And in the interview you can show your willingness to learn, by asking good, engaging questions.
If you are older than the interviewer or potential boss, you will need to make them feel respected and appreciated in the interview. People still have an inherent sense of wanting to defer to elders and when you are in a support role, this becomes even more essential to overcome. Ask them questions, acknowledge their successes, etc.
Ultimately, you are going to prove how your extra years of experience, give you the upper hand. Be confident and know your value.
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