Age Is Not A Barrier
“Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind” Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
Did you hear of the 90-year-old grandmother who went sky diving for her birthday? We should all take a leaf out of her book as she clearly defines the cliché that ‘age really is just a number’. Successfully proving that age is not a barrier does not simply apply to thrilling adrenalin activities, it also translates effectively into the workplace. However, there is an unfortunate roaming belief among society that older workers are being turned down for jobs because of their age and also the perception that older workers are undesirable candidates in comparison to younger ones. A recent article in the Bay Of Plenty Times revealed the struggling battle older workers are facing and controversy regarding age related discrimination.
In a world where 65 is the new 55 mature workers are fitter, healthier, more enthusiastic and energetic than ever before. Therefore the best possible approach if you are a mature job seeker is to focus on the present, the here and now and make your age a valuable asset rather than an inadequacy. Emphasise the experience and life skills you can offer in comparison to a young graduate. Be confident in your abilities and communicate to potential employers the added value you can offer and that you are ready to grow, develop and learn just as much as any other candidate.
Kinetic has put together different ways to beat the age barrier, succeed at work and successfully move up the career ladder:
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1.)Prepare your CV to focus on your strengths, wealth of experience and relevant skills required for the job at hand. Highlight to employers that you are more than capable of undertaking the position confidently. Only date your experience back 10-15 years to avoid discrimination. If you need help with your CV Kinetic offers a full CV transformation service that can help you put your best foot forward – contact Linda Henderson for more information on(04) 472 7878
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2.)Update your skills and tailor it to the job requirements. If you have done online courses, specific training or have updated your tech skills mention it. Don’t be afraid to highlight your achievements and accomplishments, be specific and make employers remember you and say yes that is someone I want in my organisation.
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3.)Always update your technology and computer software knowledge – being competent in Microsoft Office, Excel and PowerPoint is essential. Practice typing; there are many free online speed and accuracy tests. It is also very important to stay connected and present on professional networking sites such as LinkedIn. Did you know that 93% of recruiters look at LinkedIn during the screening process?
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4.)Look the part, present yourself well, be positive, demonstrate a good attitude and be prepared to answer interview questions regarding your future aspirations. This will indicate to potential employers that you want to succeed further, develop new skills and that you have the necessary drive and determination to succeed.
As an eager job seeker you should view your age as a competitive edge because of your experience, skills and years of knowledge you have to offer. With each year that passes us by we learn how to make the most of our opportunities in order to get us to where we envision. Life is not a dress rehearsal, you’ve only got one chance, and this is your year – so make it count!
If you would like any more information or to chat about your next employment options contact us today.