Very few people’s career paths are linear and always according to plan. Many employees have to look for a new job even when they are older. What should you take into account so that you can maximize your chances in the application process even if you are a somewhat more experienced person?
Study: Older applicants tend to have worse job prospects
As you get older, finding a job on the job market often becomes more difficult than it was when you were younger. A 2019 study by the University of Lausanne showed that job opportunities decrease significantly with increasing age and that invitations to interviews drop sharply, especially from the age of 55. Although the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) prohibits discrimination based on age, enforcing this law is often complicated in practice. Because companies rarely disclose the true motive behind their decision to invite or hire someone, providing proof of age discrimination is often difficult or impossible. However, there are some strategies that you can easily use to improve your chances of finding a job at an advanced age. In an article, Fox Business gives a few tips on how older applicants can increase their chances in the application process.
The CV
The CV serves as the heart of the application and should therefore not appear outdated. According to Fox Business, outdated information such as AOL email addresses should be avoided. In addition, no dates should be given if you have more than 20 years of experience. Instead, the post recommends considering a section titled “Past Career.” You should also particularly emphasize your own skills and experiences.
The cover letter
In addition to the CV, the cover letter is also an important part of an application. The cover letter should therefore be targeted and well structured, the article explains. Applicants should also make sure to tailor each application and cover letter specifically to the advertised position. Keywords from the job description would play an important role here, as they would show that you have dealt with the advertisement, Fox Business continued.
The job interview
If you have convinced the HR manager with your documents, you should ideally have a first interview. As Fox Business reports, it is particularly important in an interview to demonstrate excellent listening skills, to conduct the conversation in a balanced manner and to demonstrate interest and commitment through targeted, open-ended questions. Older applicants should also emphasize their skills and experience without drawing unnecessary attention to their age in order to avoid potential prejudices.
Networking is important
According to Fox Business, networking is just as important. Through active exchange in professional organizations and networks, applicants can find out about the latest developments in their industry and discover new professional opportunities. Petra Rohner also shares this assessment on the career portal XING. According to her, the lack of networking among older applicants in their own region and industry is one of the most underestimated reasons for the poorer job opportunities for older people.
Editorial team finanzen.net
