Candidate Services

Appearance

Outdated clothes. Gray hair. Poor grooming. A negative impression is hard to unmake to a prospective employer. Ask yourself these questions:
• Is my wardrobe polished, professional, current and projecting confidence? (The word “current” does not necessarily mean young and hip. See Brooks Brother’s.)
• Is my hair giving away my age? (When was the last time you had it cut, styled or possibly even colored/highlighted?- which is best left to a professional. And if you’re more than 50% bald already- for God sake, shave/buzz cut that fringe!!)
• Do I keep my facial hair closely shaved/trimmed? (Only college professors and art collectors can get away with the overgrown garden on their face look.)
• Do I look like I take pride in my physical appearance? (Could stained teeth, bitten nails or a paunch that's fast becoming a tool-shed roof be a bit detracting?)

Resume

Don’t let your resume date you. Ask yourself these questions:
• Have I removed older, irrelevant experience and degrees?
• Have I played up my most relevant recent experience?
• Have I emphasized current tech skills- i.e. the latest computer applications?
• Have I played down inflated job titles, if necessary -- like vice president -- in order to avoid appearing overqualified (AKA too expensive or wants my job)?

Interview

Ready to show what you’ve got? Ask yourself these questions:
• Am I truly comfortable with the fact someone younger may be interviewing me?
• Have I kept up with current industry terms and who the players are?
• Do I have team player examples to show my flexibility, loyalty, patience?
• Do I project positive energy and unflappability?
• am I prepared for surprises, such as a group interview (AKA the firing squad)?

Salary Expectations

In this market there are a lot of talented young people out there with lower salary expectations than those who are established. Companies have this idea that it is not motivational to hire someone at a salary that’s 20 percent or 40 percent lower than their regular salary. To combat this, be prepared to explain what motivates you besides salary, but be careful not to come off as desperate. It’s a fine line to walk. A day before the interview, Role Play this part of the conversation with someone you trust.

Techno Savvy

There is an absolute perception that middle-aged workers are less on top of new developments in technology and society. Make sure you use social media i.e. LinkedIn, Twitter, Blogs. And be able to talk about the latest funny moment on YouTube.

Attitude

Although it might be hard to do given the length of time you find yourself in the market, but presenting a positive mental attitude is critical. Desperation has not only a look, but a scent and a feeling that takes over a room, its inhabitants and the cadence of the conversation. Remember what you bring: a solid professional network, historical perspective, levelheadedness and a depth of experience younger candidates can’t. You also belong to the group that will be there early and leave late- and not just during deadline times.