Baby Boomers Beware

If you’re of a certain age group, probably in your mid-fifties, you might be aware of all the change that’s happening around you. The change is everywhere and if you still want to pursue a job of your choice, then it’s up to you as to how you will go about it.

Applying for a job in today’s market situation means that you are sending your resumes to people who are at least 15 years younger than you are. Young recruiters have a certain mindset and they can sometimes make snap judgments based on just the resume alone. So, it’s really important that your resume doesn’t date you as a baby boomer as this might just make recruiters feel uncomfortable enough to not consider you for the job.

While that might sound ageist, the truth is that there’s no fixed policy regarding age and job applications. If you want to make sure that you don’t come across as an older person who cannot handle the responsibility of a high end job, you have to bear a few points in mind when you go about making your resume.

• Updated resume – If you’ve been out of the job scene for a long time, then a good idea would be to check on the internet about the kind of resumes that are popular today, so you can remodel your resume along those lines. Remember, your resume is representing you, so make sure that it is not sloppy. Also, update the resume with your latest job details, so as to make it a current resume as well.
• Dates – Some people are in a dilemma about whether or not to mention dates in their resume, particularly those related with previous jobs. The reason for this dilemma is that if you’re a baby boomer, and you provide all the details about previously held jobs, it might make you seem undeniably old to a recruiter. A good idea might be to mention the number of years or months you’ve worked at a certain job without giving your details.
• Language – Sometimes just the language you use in your resume might reveal plenty about you and how old you are. It’s not that you’re trying to hide your age, but that you’re trying to prove that ‘age doesn’t matter’ when it comes to honest, hard work. So look around and read the kind of language that people are using today when it comes to resumes. Formal or semi formal and then, stick to that format.
• Skills – Make sure you update your skills on a regular basis so that you are well in the know about what works today and what doesn’t. Take classes, attend workshops and do all that you can to become attractive to recruiters.
• Age is just a number – If you want them to think that age doesn’t matter, you’re going to have to think it doesn’t matter yourself. It’s all in your attitude and how you carry thins forward. Remember, it’s easier for younger recruiters to dismiss you if you undermine yourself at every opportunity or do the complete opposite also. If you are brimming with overconfidence, don’t make it apparent because it irks recruiters. A little self doubt is all right.

Getting a job is not an easy matter, irrespective of how old you are. With the right kind of skills and a splendid resume, you can get much further in the race for jobs than you’d ever thought possible.

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