For older workers in job hunt, be sure to dress well

Dear Mr. Walberg:

I have been looking for a clerical or an administrative job for well over a year now. I am 61 and feel I make a good impression on interviews, however I think that when employers look at my age they think they'll have to pay me too much. Do you have any ideas for me? -- Email from B.C.

Dear B.C.:

Yes, I have ideas. You seem to be conscious of your age and may be, inadvertently, selling your age more than your skills and accomplishments. How does someone inadvertently sell their age?

-- The way you dress. I don't suggest that you dress like a 20-year old, but get current and dress to impress.

-- Groom yourself properly. You may bring attention to age with hair styles, jewelry, and even makeup. If you need help in grooming or clothing, ask for advice from specialists in major department or specialty stores.

-- Get fit. Display energy. If you exercise regularly, like even a 30-minute walk daily, it will give you energy and improve your posture, giving you a more youthful look.

-- Eliminate tale-tell dates from your resume, like education and job history from over 15 years ago. If you must list old work history, do it without dates.

-- The same thing applies to job relevant certificate courses, seminars, and workshops. If they are relevant and from years ago, leave the dates off.

-- Talk about the here and now rather than "back in the day. Prove your worth now, then you can refer to yesteryear. Employers are only interested in your past life after you prove your worth today.

-- Update your technical skills, which include computers, faxes, and e-mail. When you show you are out-dated technically, you are inadvertently selling your age.

-- There are many office related opportunities through permanent and temporary employment services. Make a good impression, sell your skills and accomplishments, and they will help you update technical skills and help you network.

When you go on interviews or write cover letters, don't wear your age on your sleeve. Sell your worth through your experience and accomplishments and stay current and relevant in everything you do.

Employers don't pay someone more for age, they pay them for productivity which often comes with age.

(Marvin Walberg is a job search coach. Contact him at mwalberg(at)bellsouth.net, marvinwalberg.blogspot.com, or PO Box 43056, Birmingham, AL 35243.)