It can be a scary world for anyone who longs for the “good old days” of stable, long-term employment, and job seekers who are 50+ may fear age discrimination, especially in a tight employment market.
But cheer up! Preparation and common sense will help you avoid the pitfalls associated with age issues.
- First, adjust your attitude. If you believe you’re being discriminated against, you’ll be looking for every possible sign that it might be happening. And you’ll be blaming others rather than taking responsibility for managing your career.
- Second, recognize that talented executives are always in demand – regardless of age. Show potential employers that you have the talent, experience, and expertise to accomplish important goals. They’re much more interested in that than in how old you are.
- Third, don’t make things worse by looking “old.” As I wrote in an earlier post, you do look your age – and that’s OK! You don’t need to look like a twenty- or thirty-something. But make sure your physical appearance, wardrobe, energy level, and enthusiasm say “high-performing executive,” not “senior citizen ready for retirement.”
In my Bluesteps webinar this week I’ll be sharing lots more ideas for career management at 50+. Join me!