Is It My Age?

Dear Career Tips:  Is It My Age?

From Career Tips, 2024 Volume 5, May 2024

I always enjoy reading your emails and have shared some with friends who are searching. The problem I face is age-related. I am now over 60 (though I look in my 40’s according to people who don’t know me) and find it hard to get an interview.  What's the best way to get over that hurdle?

 

Dear Age-Challenged:

• How are you seeking the interviews?
• Direct applications or first seeking networking 1-on1's?
• How is your background (and the extent of it) presented on your resume?

 

One way to improve your odds is to present yourself as a consultant rather than a job candidate.

 

As a consultant, your age (ie, extensive experience and wisdom) can actually be an asset, and once you have someone’s attention, they may then consider you for a permanent role. Plus, if you do land a consulting gig, often that is, in effect, an extended job interview – they get to actually sample what you can do for them, and may then be open to hiring you.

 

Further Information:

 

Only through job applications.

 

I worked in financial product sales for several years. Prior to that, I was with large, reputable banks for two decades. I'm applying for similar roles at banks where I can leverage my prior bank experience.

 

I had my resume done professionally and I have received many compliments on it. I usually customize my cover letter to explain my experience based on the job requirements.

 

Final Thoughts:

 

Job applications are going to be the toughest route, since that hits directly into the screening process. If they perceive any flaw (and age may often be perceived that way) vs. the other applications they receive, they move on.

 

Your best chance is going to be to lean in hard on networking, getting people excited about what you bring to the table before they are already judging you for a specific job opening. Get senior executives at a number of target companies thinking you are someone they might like on their team if the right opening comes up.

 

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