Over 40 Under 30 How to Fight Age Stereotypes

Over 40 Under 30 How to Fight Age StereotypesHow to Fight Age StereotypesOver 40 Under 30 How to Fight Age StereotypesNo hiring manager would dare admit it, but if they were asked to envision the ideal job candidate, theyd probably picture someone in their 30s (old enough to understand the ways of the workplace, but not so old that theyre set in their ways). Hey, we all have preconceived notions about flighty kids or cranky old folks. But the good news for the under-30s and over-40s is that there arent enough of those so-called ideal candidates to go around.There are also anti-discrimination laws to protect people whove been denied employment based on age, but it can betough to prove. Besides, its not that difficult to get around employers age-based fears and stereotypes in your interviews. Lets explore the unfair assumptions people might have about you, and more importantly, what you can do about themOLDER Worker Stereotypes Poor computer and technology skillsLow energy, old-school thinkingUnable or unwilling to learn new thingsExpect high salariesWont work well with younger colleagues or supervisorsTo Fight These AssumptionsUpdate your resume, especially by adding a Summary of Qualifications and leaving out irrelevant jobs from 10 to 15 (or more) years ago.Talk about technology, recent courses youve completed, and your enthusiasm for learning.Plan some vibrant stories that highlight recent on-the-job accomplishments.Make it clear that you understand current salary trends and have realistic expectations.Give examples of times when youve collaborated effectively with age-diverse teams.YOUNGER Worker StereotypesEasily bored or distractedSense of entitlementNeed for constant affirmation and praiseLikely to be texting or using facebook inc or Twitter during work hoursUnreliable and unmotivatedTo Fight These AssumptionsDress and act in a business-appropriate way.Learn all you can about the organizations mission and goals, and show enthusiasm for helping meet them.I f your work experience is sparse, talk about volunteer work, academics, or athletic achievements to demonstrate things like work ethic, collaboration, and organization.Pay close attention to what the interviewers ask, and ask questions in return to show youre engaged.Keep your iPod and cell phone out of eye- and earshot.We all age at the same rate, and theres little we can do to speed up or slow down the process. But if you know what red flags your age might raise in an employers mind, youll be better able to fight them. Forewarned is forearmed, as the saying goes.Once you show employers that those unfair stereotypes dont apply to you, theyll replace their initial fears with a new sense of respect for the valuable contributions you can bring to their business.