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By Orly Benaroch Light


Without a question, ageism is a very real form of discrimination that occurs in the workplace. Additionally, it can be extremely upsetting to learn that you were passed over for a job just because of the year on your birth certificate. Using any kind of stereotype has cost many firms key employees. Although they shouldn't, these biases nonetheless persist. Therefore, the best thing you can do when looking for your next job is to concentrate on the areas you have control over, such as your own views and skills and how you market them.


Looking at your own perspective on what a mature worker can do can be helpful as a starting point. If you've ever felt rejected because of your age, it might be simple to fall prey to self-defeating ideas like "Maybe I'm too old for this" or "Perhaps younger employees do have the advantage over me." It's critical to refute these ideas, and making a commitment to continued professional and personal development can support you in doing so. To minimize these as potential barriers to job development and success, keep your skills current and stay abreast of industry changes and technology.


Next, remind yourself of your strengths. You must recognize the many abilities and characteristics that come with experience, such as perspective, adaptability, having fewer dependents, and the capacity to mentor others. Consider the variety of individuals you've worked with, the changes you've seen in the sector, and the information and abilities you've acquired, and then consider how you may demonstrate the value of these to a prospective employer. You'll be better able to sell yourself and less likely to feel like you need to defend yourself in comparison to younger workers once you're convinced in your own mind that age is actually a strength.


Practically speaking, don't include your age on your resume if you think it will prevent it from reaching the correct people. Your date of birth is not legally required to be published. Don't forget that your resume is like a book cover and should pique an employer's, manager's, HR executive's, or recruiter's interest and leave them wanting to know more. You want your talents and experience to be the focus.


Avoid mentioning the part-time work you held while in college or the junior roles you held decades ago to lessen the emphasis on your age. Focus on the more recent positions that best reflect your well-honed talents, expertise, and skills in light of the new positions you are seeking.


Pick the right employer. Find employers that promote age inclusion in the workforce, as well as age-inclusive hiring. Luckily, some employers know the advantage of bringing experienced employees into their workforces. Below is a list of some age-friendly companies from the AARP Employer Pledge Program, a nationwide group of over 1000 employers that stand with AARP in affirming the value of experienced workers and are committed to developing diverse organizations.


2. Aetna

4. AT&T

11. Humana

12. Kelly


In addition to writing about your abilities and assets, you'll also need to be prepared to speak with potential employers in person. Reframe the job interview process as an opportunity to market your skills, charisma, passion, and knowledge in more detail and context.


By taking these actions to recognize and develop the skills and qualities you've developed during your working life, you'll be able to shift the focus to the value you can provide to potential employers as a result of your years of expertise.



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