Preparing a resume that emphasizes your value is a good first step to preparing for your search. Here are eight ways to age-proof your resume:
1. Don’t provide your complete work history: This is the number one mistake job seekers make. If it’s before 1990, employers probably don’t care. Hiring managers are most interested in what you did recently, so concentrate on your recent career. If you feel compelled to delve into earlier experiences, create a section called “Early Career” and provide just the highlights and no dates.
2. Watch your language: Avoid age-revealing statements such as “35 years of experience” or age-defining clichés such as “seasoned professional.”
3. Stick to a “combination” resume style, leading with a strong “Career Summary” section: You may have been advised to mask your years of experience with a functional resume format. But employers do not like to see functional resumes because they are often used by candidates who are trying to hide something. You don’t want employers reading your resume and searching for a possible problem. Unless your work history is extremely spotty or you are completely changing careers, stick to a chronological format.
4. Show that you’re current with technology and industry trends: Are you proficient with Wang or an expert at BASIC programming? While these programs were once cutting-edge, they have been replaced with new technology. Show that you’ve kept up with the times by removing antiquated equipment, programs, and tools, and highlight your knowledge of modern technology.
5. Consider dropping dates of education: This is a tough call, because hiring managers who want to know a person’s age will go right to the “Education” section and do the math. If your education occurred in the 1970s or earlier, it might be in your best interest to eliminate graduation dates.
6. Keep your school names updated: If you graduated from a school that has since changed its name, include the new name. If you are concerned about discrepancies in case an employer asks to see a transcript, write the former name of the school in parentheses.
7. Show that you’ve been continually learning or taking on new roles: The key is to demonstrate that your skills are fresh and in demand. It is important that you show that you are flexible and willing to adapt to organizational changes.
8. Quantify and expand on your achievements: As a professional with a long work history, this is your chance to accentuate the positive. You have what younger workers may lack — years of practical experience. Provide examples of how your performance contributed to your employers’ goals, mission, and bottom-line results.
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http://www.resumepower.com/blog/2006/12/30/resume-tips-for-older-job-seekers/
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2 Responses to "Resume Pointers for Mature Workers"
November 9, 2009 at 6:11 PM #
Although it is the recruiter's fault for assuming age based upon resume dates, how do you handle their disappointment (and possibly indignation) when they realize that you're older that they expected?
November 11, 2009 at 4:30 AM #
It's true employers are most interested in the last 10 years of work history. And while earlier experiences can be summarized, leaving out dates of employment, graduation, etc. is rarely a good idea. First, this information is easily obtained. Second, let's suppose we successfully obtain an interview. What do you think might happen when you show up for the appointment and the employer realizes you are older (perhaps much older) than they had been led to believe. You've immediately cast doubt on your credibility shortly after stepping in the front door.
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