As we baby boomers reach the later stages of our working lives, it can sometimes feel as though the world is against us.
We tell ourselves, “I didn’t get that job because I’m too old, because I’m too experienced, because they fear I’ll take their job, because…” The list goes on.
At some point, we all must accept that we are ageing.
Yet we don’t have to accept that we didn’t get that job because we’re too old, too experienced, or too much of a threat.
Sometimes, it’s simply that the organisation is heading in a new direction, or perhaps looking for a fresh set of eyes.
Maybe, just maybe, they haven’t yet seen the flexibility and adaptability we bring.
So, what can we do to give ourselves every chance of landing that next role?
We can show them the diversity of our skills by sharing stories of how our experience has made us adaptable and resourceful.
We can talk about our ability to work with anyone, in any environment, and demonstrate that we’re open to new ideas and learning.
We can show that we’re not just keeping up with today’s world; we are actively contributing to it.
Our world is progressing faster than anyone ever imagined, and we must show that we are keeping pace with it.
That means highlighting the ways we’ve embraced technology, even if it’s just learning new tools or platforms that are relevant to our field.
It means sharing the courses we’ve taken, the certifications we’ve earned, or the webinars we’ve attended.
When we talk about how we have adapted to change or solved new challenges, we show that our problem-solving skills are as sharp as ever.
Mentoring is another strength we bring; our ability to coach and support others is a huge asset to any team.
And when we share stories of collaborating across generations, across ethnicities, across cultures, we remind employers that we know how to build bridges.
Above all, letting our passion for the role and the industry shine through can be the most compelling evidence of all that we are still very much relevant.
It may not be your age that’s holding you back. Sometimes, it’s simply about how you present your relevance and readiness for today’s challenges.
Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep relevant.
Let’s talk!
Are You Showing All Your Abilities.