Mature Jobseekers CV Tips
It's a fact that mature jobseekers struggle to find employment in a recession. Applying for a job is challenging enough but will require the best interview tips and advice to make your CV "fit in". This can be as much a challenge for older people as making it "stand out" is for younger people with little experience.
Anyone with 30+ years experience is perceived as senior in their profession. The important thing to remember is that you have years of experience under your belt. The trick is to apply for positions that you can realistically get. In order to do this, show the interviewer the benefits of hiring you; in particular, the benefits gained as a result of your employment history. Point out the various sectors where you gained your experience and how you enhanced your knowledge, and made a difference by improving systems and dealing with challenges.
If you have been out of work for more than 6 months, switch tactics and focus on larger companies or public sector positions where the employer has to fill an age quota. You should also consider temping or contract work, as it's better to be in work than long term unemployed.
Ageism is a reality in the job market so make sure you know your rights. Under the laws of England (The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006), ageism has occured when an employer makes a decision about an employee based primarily on their age. This is classified as discrimination or prejudice. The form of ageism most commonly encountered is when an applicant's application is rejected because they are perceived to be too old. Using overtly ageist language in job ads, like the word 'young' is discriminatory as it is likely to discourage older applicants from applying. The 2006 Equality Regulation will be simplified by The Equality Act 2010 (also known as the Equality Bill), which will come into force in October 2010.
CV and Interview Tips for Mature Jobseeker's
1) Organise your CV into a format that highlights your skills as opposed to a chronological format.
2) You are not required to include your date of birth on your CV, but the interviewer can work it out based on your job history. This is why it's better to avoid chronological CV formats.
3) Highlight recent achievements - when the interviewer says "describe a time when you ....", be sure to describe a recent occasion.
4) Make sure you are sufficiently tech savvy. Sign up for refresher IT courses to bring your Microsoft Office skills up a notch.
5) Omit the details for positions held more than 10 years earlier.
6) Omit the dates you attended school.
7) Don't mention the grandchildren or the 'good ole days'.
8) Be respectful of bosses who are significantly younger than you. This sends a clear message that you will accept their authority.
9) Get your hair done in a modern but professional style.
10) Wear stylish clothes but with a trendy twist.
Always be aware that your salary and qualifications could put you out of the running for a position. Being over-qualified or having earned a high salary in the past could make employers nervous, as they may imagine that you will not be satisfied and fulfilled in the role long term. It's up to you to find ways to alleviate these fears. Always have a response prepared in case this becomes a stumbling block in the interview.
Go to Job Interview Mistakes
Essential Tips For an Effective Job Search
Go to Sample Cover Letters
Go to Personal Assistant In-Tray Assessments
Go to Behavioural Style Interviews
Go to The 40 Most Common Job Interview Questions
Go to 5 Interview Questions You Should Always Ask
Go to 6 Tips for Dealing With Job Loss
Go to Job Search Engines
Go to Careers
Go to Accredited Personal Assistant Training Courses & PA Professional Bodies
Go to How to Build a Good Relationship With Your Boss
Go to How to Deal With Difficult People
Go to Job Burnout
Go to Personal Assistant Coach/Mentor
Go to Performance Appraisals
Go to Time Management
Go to How to Get a Raise
Go to Tools and Links
Go to "How to" Advice
Go to Corporate Travel
Go to Event Planning
Go to Meetings Planning
Go to Plannings Checklists
Go to a Virtual Assistants
Go to PA Shopping Mall
Back to Home Page
Disclaimer | Privacy Statement | Contact Us Directly | Advertise With Us
|
