Older job seekers can bring a wealth of knowledge to the workforce. Their experience, in addition to their skills, is a valuable asset. However, many times employers do not see it this way.
It is not legal for age to be a deciding factor for employers when it comes to hiring someone for a position. Of course, an employer will not say it influenced their decision, but it often does.
Interview Tips That Can Help Older Job Seekers
Being up to date on the latest technological or other advances in the position being applied for is extremely important. Many employers may think that older candidates have not kept up with new trends and information.
Letting a prospective employer know that they have kept up with advances is a plus for the older job seeker. If they have earned certificates or completed courses that relate to the job being sought, it is a good idea to bring them.
One Of The Most Important Interview Tips!
One of the most important Interview Tips that cannot be stressed enough is appearance. When an older job seeker wears the same style clothing they wore twenty or thirty years ago it only emphasizes the difference in age between them and younger candidates.
They should ask for help when choosing clothing for a job interview if they are unsure of the right style. Sales people and relatives can provide advice. Being neat and clean is a must for a job interview, and this holds true no matter the age of the candidate.
Stylish Haircut Can Make You Look Younger
Clothing is not the only thing that can affect appearance. Hair is another feature that can make people look younger or older. Coloring hair to hide gray can take ten or more years off someone’s appearance.
A stylish haircut will help as well. Men or women can take advantage of this tip to help them look more youthful.
References are one of the best ways of showing a prospective employer that a candidate is reliable and dependable. Written references from former employers, supervisors, and even co-workers can help.
They tell a prospective employer that the candidate was well thought of and performed job duties as instructed.
Show Interest In Developing New Skills
Many times employers think that older job seekers are looking for something to do while awaiting retirement. The candidate can let the interviewer know that he or she is currently interested in developing skills that are related to the position.
This will dispel the thought that the potential employee will not give it their best effort because they will be retiring.
Learn the language that is being used today. This is particularly true when working in a computer related field. For example, “sharing a file” does not mean to physically pick it up and take it to someone.
Computers are constantly being improved and learning what they are capable of can help older job seekers when applying for a job.
become familiar with duties to the position
While a candidate should show that they are qualified for the position being sought, it is not a good idea to appear overqualified. Become familiar with duties related to the position.
Mentioning the satisfaction that performing these particular duties provided in the past can be beneficial. Many times older workers have to seek lesser positions that they held in the past.
Interview Tips that can benefit older workers include projecting a positive attitude. This can include body language and speech. A positive attitude helps to convey confidence.
have a firm handshake
Sit up straight, have a firm handshake, smile, and speak up without shouting. Look the interviewer in the eye. Rather than simply answering questions with yes or no, expand on the answers somewhat.
Just do not go overboard and ramble. Practice with friends or relatives. It is important to be friendly and confident without overwhelming the interviewer.
Convincing a potential employer of the advantage that age provides when it comes to certain situations can be advantageous. If the job requires problem-solving, past experience can often help older workers make the right decision.
An employer may see this as a benefit for younger employees that will learn from the older worker.
Do not be nervous. Although this is easier said than done, it is practically a given that the interviewer will be younger. This can often be unnerving for older workers.
show opportunity to share work experience
Look at this as an opportunity to share work experience gained over the years in a polite manner. Be prepared for questions about previous jobs and tasks that may be required for this position. If anything is unfamiliar, be sure and let the interviewer know that learning new skills is not a problem.
Using these tips, older job seekers will find that although the interview process may have changed over the years, it is still about finding the right person for the job. The main thing to remember is to be prepared. Take the time to ask questions to show interest in the position.