Maximize Your 50+ Job Search: LinkedIn & Resume Hacks

By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter

Here are some strategies for mature workers to maximize their presence and impact on LinkedIn, based on the provided sources:

• Include a Professional Photo on Your LinkedIn Profile: A professional photo increases trust and makes a profile appear more friendly and memorable. People might wonder what someone is trying to hide if their profile does not include a photo. Not having a photo might even make it appear as though someone lacks technology skills.
• Use a Strong Headline: Instead of using a headline that focuses on employment status, such as “Unemployed,” use a statement that focuses on skills and value. This provides more insight into a candidate’s abilities.
• Tailor Your Headline to the Most Searched-for Titles in Your Field: Using the most common titles makes it easier for recruiters to find you. You can include variations of your title throughout your profile.
• Turn on the “Open to Work” Feature: This feature allows recruiters who are using LinkedIn’s premium recruiting package to find you easily.
• Limit Your Work History to the Past 10–15 Years: Including experience beyond that time frame might increase the chances of ageism. If asked about it in an interview, you can state that the older information is not relevant to the position.
• Keep Your LinkedIn Profile and Resume Consistent: Discrepancies between the two might raise red flags for recruiters.
• Send a Cover Letter: A cover letter provides an opportunity to express interest in a position. Not sending one puts you at a disadvantage compared to candidates who do. A cover letter also allows you to highlight relevant accomplishments and showcase your writing skills.
• Send a Thank You Email After an Interview: It is the preferred way to thank an interviewer because it is delivered immediately. Additionally, email allows for a longer message, although it is still important to keep it concise. Each thank you email should be unique and tailored to the specific person who is being thanked.
• Don’t be Afraid to Apply for Positions Even If You Don’t Meet All of the Requirements: Focus on your transferable skills, and don’t be intimidated by long job descriptions. If you meet at least 70–80% of the requirements, you should still apply.
• Don’t be Afraid to Negotiate: Employers expect candidates to negotiate salary and benefits. You have leverage because you are the person they want to hire. Good employers are willing to pay you what you are worth in the labor market. You should try to negotiate a salary that you deserve, but it’s important to first understand what they are willing to pay. Know that the initial salary range that they provide is often less than they are actually willing to pay.
• Be Persistent: The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the job market for all workers, but this is a good opportunity for mature workers to focus on conducting a thorough job search. You should try to understand what you want to do and then research the companies that you want to work for.
• Be Positive: Ageism does exist, but try not to let it affect your job search. Negative self-talk can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Remind yourself that you are a valuable asset. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people, and let your network know that you are looking for a job. Remember that mature workers have a lot to offer employers: job experience, life experience, problem-solving skills, resilience, dependability, pride in their work, loyalty, and a strong work ethic.
• Ⓒ The Big Game Hunter, Inc., Asheville, NC 2024 Group Interviews: The Way to Answer Questions
  

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