I interviewed HR Expert, Brett Larson, SPHR to find out what the scoop is for older workers.
Q: Is age an asset or a liability? A: Age is not an issue. Age is never a determining factor, legally, and it’s not relevant to common sense or anything else. Experience, on the other hand, is always an asset. Any job that requires experience in the industry or market, where it truly matters in making sound decisions and producing quality, experience is an asset.
Q: What kind of job is that? A: Every job you can name.
Q: How important is the interview? A: I review 400-500 resumes for each job. From that I’ll choose one or two candidates. If you’re called in for an interview, you don’t have to work too hard for a “win.” Don’t fabricate experience and skills. Have an efficient presentation, look like you’ll be pleasant to work with, wear a nice suit that fits, skip the hair dye and toupee Come in prepared to meet people for the first time, have a smile on your face – a genuine one, not fake. Enjoy yourself. Be enthusiastic.
Q: Is it a numbers game? A: No, it’s the opposite. Be selective about the jobs you apply for, and make the fit as close as possible. Then prepare an individual resume for each job.
Q: Do you post online? A: I post all my positions on www.match.com. Also check www.careerbuilders.com
Q: If I’m over 50, should I just go back 10 years on my resume. A: No, not unless you’re afraid of looking old.
PROCEDURE: Apply for jobs you’re qualified for. Write your resume like a newspaper article – a catchy headline (not jazzy), something that would interest the hirer. Put what you are at the top, and a summary of your work history. List your technical skills right beneath it and relevant experience. Rewrite your resume for every position
Q: Why do you think there’s such concern about age? A: I don’t know. Fears? Phobias? It’s screamingly wrong. If you can find someone with 25 years experience, they’re gold. The perspective is so mind-bogglingly good when you get a team that’s diverse in age.
Q: What should you do if you got fired or asked to resign? A: The way we look at it is the reason you’re here is because something wasn’t right where you were. We’ve all been there. Why is it any worse to have been fired? Don’t sugar coat things. I’ll ask your reason for leaving and I’ll check your references. The Texas Truth in Hiring Act says any ex-employer can give any information as long as it’s true. So I might ask, “Did you fire her?” “No.” “Did you ask for her resignation?” “Yes.” “Why?” “Because we had a disagreement over X issue ” I ask the candidate beforehand, “When I call your references, am I going to hear anything you might consider negative?” and I’m all-ears.
Susan Dunn, MA, Marketing Coach,
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