It can be easy for older job seekers to feel disappointed when they get rejected for a job. Often, people think that their qualifications might be too high. But there are ways to mitigate this negative outcome.
5 ways to turn your age into an asset
1. Highlight your experience and wisdom
Experience does not necessarily translate into wisdom. Many people stay in their jobs for a long time without ever learning new things, making tough decisions, or solving problems. Older job seekers can focus on their abilities, exciting projects they have participated in, handling coworkers with different personalities, and the skills they have learned to achieve goals.
2. Leave a good impression during the interview
Older job seekers may have a lot of experience, but prospective employers like it when candidates are passionate and set professional goals for themselves.
Make a list of what you want to achieve in the position you are applying for by writing down what you’ve been working on since you first entered the workforce. Then you can show it to the interviewers. In this way, they will know you’re excited about the opportunity and that you can bring concrete benefits to the company.
Older job seekers should show they are looking for something other than a job that will last 5, 10, or more years. After all, employers are looking for motivated people, not just qualified people.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for a higher pay
When looking for a job, applicants are often asked about their ideal salary range. Don’t worry about someone else getting the job because they would be satisfied with lower pay. You should emphasize the value you can bring to the company and ask for the highest salary range the employer can offer.
4. Make good use of your connections
Having a good network is always an advantage when applying for a job. The longer you stay in the field, the more people you have a professional relationship with. Employers and human resources managers like to hire people with leadership qualities in the hope these people can bring more opportunities to the company.
Before applying to a company, research its competitors, suppliers, and customers and, where possible, use your connections to connect with them.
5. Make yourself visible to the employers
If job seekers post or publish articles and blogs related to their field online, employers and human resources managers can find them. This will establish or strengthen the credibility of the applicants. Your knowledge in your area of expertise will make an impression on the potential employer.
A person’s qualifications in the workplace can be an asset or a liability. As long as you have the right attitude and approach, you will have a better chance of letting employers see your potential value.
Translated by Elaine
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