Age discrimination, or the perception of age discrimination, during the hiring process is clearly a hot button issue. While discrimination based on age is illegal, sadly it does exist. Whether it happens consciously or unconsciously, it is based on outdated stereotypes. As an older worker you may have to battle with the misconception that you haven’t kept up with changing technology or the concern you will retire before the company generates their return on the investment they made by hiring you.
“As a Baby Boomer, I’d love to work in the healthcare market longer. However, I don’t see much recruiting by ANY company for those over 50.”
“Companies in general have not done much to retain baby-boomer talent.”
These are few comments posted in response to the recent Star Tribune interview with Talencio’s President, Paula Norbom, regarding predicted talent shortages.
Are you older, wiser and unemployed?
How can you take back control of your own career destiny as an older a “more seasoned” candidate? As experienced recruiters, we can give you our unique perspective on where to start.
First impressions always count, so present yourself strategically.
- What image do you want to project? Does your appearance express your professionalism and your energy level? Ask a trusted friend or colleague to give you feedback and take reasonable steps to make improvements. This should also include a great new photo for your LinkedIn profile.
- When you get to your interview, always signal your confidence with a firm handshake and an energetic demeanor.
- Even if you have struggled with a long job search, approach each new interview with a fresh and undefeated attitude – your competitors will!
Interview Prep – Do the Work!
- Research your potential employer. Don’t assume they will associate your experience with the depth of your capabilities. Be ready to speak clearly and concisely about your skills, and to explain how they match the position requirements. Provide pertinent success stories that highlight not only your skills, but your grasp of current technology.
- Be proactive about explaining your long term career goals. Without directly discussing age or retirement, you can address what could be the elephant in the room.
- Ask interview questions that give you an opportunity to stress that your skills and experience, and show you’re ready to hit the ground running. They can also serve the purpose of allowing you to address any concerns on the part of the interviewer. Examples: What are your objectives for me my first 30,60,90 days? Do you have any concerns about me that I can address?
- If you think you are a good match for the position, ask for the job.
Finally, do everything possible to market yourself during your search!
- Make sure you have a robust LinkedIn profile that reflects your experience and your career goals, but most importantly that it will attract potential employers. Be an active participant on LinkedIn. It may be worth investing in a “how to” book on the subject or hiring a professional to revamp your profile. We recommend the book LinkedIn for the Savvy Executive
- Network, network, network. Ask your colleagues and friends for connections. Attend any event that allows you to connect.
- Help your network and prospective employer to understand your enthusiasm, skills, interests and ability to contribute.
- Keep your skillset current.
Our next blog will focus on the benefits of hiring older (and wiser) employees.
About Talencio: We help the Health Technology community make progress by putting the right people in the right place to solve problems and identify opportunities to move humanity forward. To learn more about opportunities in the health technology field, or to hear how other companies have partnered with Talencio to tap into our skilled professional talent pool, contact us at 612.703.4236 or email.. Talencio has been the preferred provider of vetted, accomplished professionals to the Health Technology Community for over 9 years.