Although there are legal protections against age discrimination, it is better to avoid age discrimination by showing a potential or current employer that you are not like what many employers or employees think that all seniors are like. This article will discuss how to demonstrate that you are not like these expectations.
Employers might think that seniors are uncomfortable with change and technology. Demonstrate that you are up to date with the trends in your industry. Stay up to date with the latest software and tools of your industry, even if you must go to night school to stay up to date. At least be enthusiastic about any employer sponsored training. Make it known that you welcome change and new ideas.
Younger employers might wonder if seniors will resent taking orders from a younger boss. Senior employees must resist that possible temptation.
Employers often think that seniors are low on energy and without ambition. Make it known that you have ambitious goals and energy. Gary Vaynerchuk said, “Without hustle, talent will only carry you so far.”
Employers might suspect that senior citizens soon will retire and make the company’s investment in them not worthwhile. If you do not plan to retire soon, make that known.
Employers might suspect that senior employees will require more sick days than younger employees. Do your best to stay healthy by eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep, and dropping bad habits that will hurt your health.
Senior employees should emphasize their strengths. Job 12:12 reads, “Wisdom belongs to the aged.” Soft skills tend to increase with age. Soft skills can be more important than hard skills. Senior employees should make sure they can demonstrate their soft skills during interviews. Once hired, senior employees should seek to demonstrate their soft skills in their daily interactions with fellow employees and with their supervisor.
What example can you remember when you demonstrated or witnessed good soft skills?
