Job Seeking Myths – I’m Too Old. No One Will Hire Me

One thing that many people who are a bit older are afraid of is that they are to old to hunt for a new job.  It might feel like companies don’t want to hire older people when there is “younger talent” or people that may stay with the company longer and not retire.   The truth is that you have just as good a shot as anyone else at finding a job.  Most companies adhere to age discrimination laws like ADEA (Age Discrimination in Employment Act), however, realistically some discrimination in the workplace still exists.  The bottom line is that there may be some discrimination in the workplace, but when it comes down to it, it is up to you to sell yourself and not your age.

Many younger people applying for executive positions have the same fears.  They are going to think I am to young or inexperienced.  Some of the people I would be managing will be older then me which could cause some backlash.  Someone waiting for a promotion wanted the job and if I take it they may act out against me for being an outsider.  The reality is that age fears go across the board.  There are a few things you can do to help yourself have an advantage over younger or older people applying for the same jobs.

1.  Have a professionally written resume.

If you did your resume yourself, have it redone by a professional resume writing service.  Let the writers polish it, clean it and recommend other formats.  Have your resume writer go in and see if there is a better way to showcase your skills and achievements.  Maybe there is an error that was never obvious to you that they can pick out easily.  By having a professional looking resume that shows why you are the best person for the job, you may better your chances of getting called in for an interview.

2.  Experience comes with age.

There is an old saying that says “Experience comes with age”.  Don’t forget this.  Not only have you had more experience than some of the other people applying, but your life skills can help to sell you in the interview.  You have probably been through numerous ups and downs with companies and you know how to calm people, keep everyone productive and the workplace in order since you have been there.  Someone who is much younger hasn’t had this type of experience since they haven’t been able to live through it.  The experience that your age gives you can actually help to benefit you with some interviews.  Just be cautious and use your best judgment if you bring it up.  Just remember to never bring up your age in an interview.  It is illegal for a interviewer to ask and inappropriate for you to disclose.

3.  Don’t be afraid or intimidated.

Don’t let myths like no one wants to hire an old person scare you.  Get that out of your head because if it is bothering you while you are interviewing, you won’t be on your A game.  Remember that you are just as qualified and possibly more experienced than the other candidates.  You can hold your own ground and when you get that confidence it will show.  Being confident and showing that things like age don’t bother you, you may impress the interviewer and get the job.

Many people that use the excuse “I’m to old to get hired” just have the wrong attitude.  Finding a job is about your attitude and your experience.  The more confident you feel and the better you can present yourself, the more productive your job search may become.

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career, job, jobsearch