August 27, 2011
by Gary HeitmanLet's be honest - Age discrimination happens. It is tough to avoid but you can take steps on your resume to reduce the chances and allow you to get the interview where you will shine.
Preparing a resume that emphasizes your value is a good first step to preparing for your job search. Here are ways to age-proof your resume:
> 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 (and you better feel VERY compelled) to delve into earlier experiences, create a section called “Early Career” and provide just the highlights and no dates.
> Watch your language: Avoid age-revealing statements such as “35 years of experience” or age-defining clichés such as “seasoned professional.” I see this every day as people proud of their accomplishments reveal too much about themselves.
> 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. I used to look for reasons to eliminate resumes because it is easier than finding a good one.
Unless your work history is extremely spotty or you are completely changing careers, stick to a chronological format.
> Show that you’re current with technology and industry trends: Are you proficient with Commodore 64 or an expert at FORTRAN 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 - get a Twitter account while you are at it!
> Consider dropping dates of education: 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.
> Keep your school and business names updated: If you graduated from a school that has since changed its name, include the new name. If you worked for a company that was bought out and changed names, include the new name. If you are concerned about discrepancies in case an employer asks to see a transcript or checks out your LinkedIn account, write the former name in parenthesis.
> 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. Always focus on what this learning can bring to the position you are applying for.
> 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. THIS INCLUDES METRICS!! Make it easy for the hiring manager to see how you can provide huge benefits to your new workplace. This is another common mistake that many professionals make: assuming someone can extrapolate your previous experiences into this current assignment. Make it easy for them - tell them.
For us "more mature" workers, I found a great spot for age tips - check it out. http://internsover40beta.blogspot.com/
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