The Issue of Age in today’s workplace Many of us fear the day we need to compete against younger, equally qualified candidates who display so much youthful vitality we begin to feel like “Mother and Father Time!” Let’s look at ways you can make a positive, long lasting impression on decision-makers so that all candidates can be equitably assessed by the only real criteria that matters and that is: “who is the best candidate for the job?” Press space bar to continue

Present a new image At interview, avoid providing information that “dates” you—your graduation year, your grandchildren, the ’60s. If asked about your hobbies and activities, reinforce the positives, highlighting energetic pursuits – perhaps jogging, squash, skiing vacations, or community work. If you are not actively involved in sporting pursuits, speak of your interest in football, tennis, or basketball; show up to date knowledge and then move on. Try to steer the conversation back to work related achievements, as it is in this forum that you are on firmer ground. Press space bar to continue

Change your approach Steer clear of showing outdated attitudes. Don’t raise eyebrows by talking of “young people today” or refer to women as “girls,” “sweetie,” or “dear” Never make any negative comment on race, religion or nationality Watch the message you are delivering. The world is not the same as it was, and people do not know you yet. Press space bar to continue

Eliminate Outdated Phrases Years ago… When I was starting out… When I was your age When you get to be my age When I was younger Back then of course… The girls in the office In the good old days Young hotshots now… Press space bar to continue

Be Confident, Eliminate Self-Defeating Talk Never say: I’m 57 but my friends say I look years younger I suppose you may be looking for someone younger, but… Why apologize? “Older” means you’ve just had longer to acquire more experience and maturity. Press space bar to continue

Be technologically savvy Learning is not restricted to age. It is a lifelong process. Go online, sign-up for a new training course, learn new methods or new innovations in your field. A receptionist who is unfamiliar with computers, or a manufacturing manager who doesn’t understand JIT, will not make the grade. Don’t carry one of those “new fangled” mobile phones? Can’t find the ‘on’ button on a laptop? Can’t get “into” the internet? Don’t understand SMS, messaging, networks, and ecommerce? It’s time to learn! Press space bar to continue

Reflect the world You only have one chance to make a first impression. Clothes must be current, but conservative. Solid navy or grey well-cut business attire is a professional look for men and women. Accessorize with style. Limit jewellery, strong scents; dry-clean clothes before interview if you smoke. Review your hairstyle. Have you had the same style for years? Time to look for something current. Avoid unflattering dyes, poor quality wigs/toupees, and badly executed attempts to disguise thinning hair. Press space bar to continue

Update your résumé People will see your résumé long before View your résumé critically. Remove old graduation dates, delete dates prior to mid ’70s. Remove job titles that no longer exist – such as “stenographer,” and “key punch operator” Has the format moved with the times? Check out modern samples and books on the subject. Seek the services of a professional to present you in today’s world Does your résumé emphasize your accomplishments? People will see your résumé long before they meet you. Your presentation needs to be slick and modern Press space bar to continue

Look to the future Look to the future with anticipation, energy and excitement. Shake off the negative thoughts, get back in the race, and make the most of opportunities as only a person with wisdom, maturity and strength can do! Press enter to close