Over 40 Candidates

In my TheLadders.com e-newsletter, there was an article written by Dean Tracy, a professional recruiter, called "5 Magic Words for Older Candidates."

Didn't really like the word "older," but read the article anyway. It has some good advice for candidates 40 and OVER.

The author says, "you can be the champion in your search strategy – not the casualty in this race for the job," and then offers "five points [to] serve as a checklist of ways to serve up your age in a way that elevates your personal brand instead of diluting your candidacy:"

1. Accomplishment versus seasoned - The way you present yourself on your resume should reflect your energy and commitment. Identifying yourself as "seasoned" is basically saying "I'm old!"
2. Evidence versus claims - Show that you too have the energy and tenacity of a young candidate but that you also offer real experiences that's needed to get the job done.
3. Polish versus wipe - Can't say it any better than the author: "...you must dress for the job you want, not the job you have. "
4. Aware versus well-versed - Simply said, if you don't know about social networking tools (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter) that are being used today, learn them. You don't have to become an expert, but it's better to be well-versed than just aware of them.
5. Experience versus age - You can't change your age, but you can change the impression people have of your age. Demonstrate that your experience qualifies you as capable.

To read the entire article you must register with TheLadders.com. It's free and they have some good resources, like this article. If you don't want to register, I hope my overview has given you some helpful tips.