Posted in Careers & Jobs, Thriving in Change
If you are a Baby Boomer or Gen X and you find yourself downsized/out of work, how will you compete with the younger workers for jobs? Leverage “you”. Above all make sure you are using LinkedIn and Twitter.
Here is the link for Twitter job posts: www.twitterjobsearch.com/map. Also another link I found on Twitter on how to avoid the biggest job search mistakes: http://bit.ly/qiNWR.
#1 Prepare simple statements that explain why you over the younger workers.
Sample. “I am more valuable now than when I got out of school. I apply my years of experience to the challenges of this decade. I have been through many changes in my life so to me – change is normal. I see experience as a guide not a bible. I stay current with technology and I work easily with people of different ages, cultures, and education. I am smart, trainable, and learn fast.
To write your statement, read the related blog post here on this site: http://katenasser.com/apply-yourself-and-then-apply-for-that-job/
#2 Bridge the gap for the interviewer. Many interviewers are incented by their companies to hire young ones even though they do not admit it. Give them significant evidence that you are the best hire to help them overcome their fears of bucking “corporate think”. Not all interviewers are change agents at heart. You must reduce their fear if you want a shot at the job. And of course, don’t tell them they are afraid!
#3 Back up your claims of being “current”. Make sure you are on some online site such as LinkedIn or Twitter. Learn how to text message. Read up on current jargon in your field and in online networking. Prepare examples of how you are using current technology to learn. Are you doing webinars? Are you going to school online? All of this makes you “current”.
You are welcome to share this information with other blogs and social media if you credit this blog post. I also welcome your comments and questions below.
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Kate Nasser, The People-Skills Coach