By If you are above 40 and looking to write a resume that avoids ageism and stands out from other applicants, our blog is there to guide you. It might look a bit tricky. However, with the right tips, you can create your resume.
In today’s job market, ageism is real. You have to face it, especially if you are of a certain age. A recent survey suggests that over 60% to 65% of older people have to face age discrimination while applying for jobs.
The good news is that having a well-written resume can help you tackle this situation like a pro. Now, how can you punch up your resume to avoid ageism?
Let’s find out.
Top Ageism-Proof Resume Writing Tips
1. Drop Out Your Age
Do you want the recruiter to judge your skills and not your age? Your best bet is to drop your age from the resume.
Why?
Simply stating that you’re above 40 or 50 paints a picture in the hiring manager’s mind that you might not fit the job. Hence, make sure to omit your date of birth or year. Furthermore, avoid talking about your first few years of experience.
This way, the managers can be extra careful while reading about your skills and achievements. It will also fuel their curiosity, making them invite you to the interview.
2. Omit Your Grad Year
You might be making a grave mistake if you are still adding your graduation year to your resume. (It’s for those who feel they belong to ancient times). Pun intended.
Consider omitting your graduation year to avoid discrimination and ensure that you are not judged solely by your age.
But why?
Because even if you don’t add your age, the managers can still guess it from your grad year. So it is better to be safe than feel sorry when rejected.
3. Only Focus On Relevant Experience
Still, adding up those outdated experiences?
Stop right now!
Imagine you are hiring someone and receive a resume filled with experiences that are no longer of use.
Would you prefer someone like that?
The answer is no!
Therefore, only focus on relevant experiences. If you have been working for 10+ years, only talk about the current 5-7 years.
Additionally, if you are one of those working with a specific company for a longer period, it is better to state only recent years. Also, if you have any side hustles or doing freelancing recently, add them up. The more relevant your experiences, the better the chances of receiving an interview call.
4. Use Chronological or Hybrid Resume Format
One of the reasons why you might be facing ageism is that you are still using that outdated functional resume format.
Remember that many CV experts are against using it and consider this format a red flag.
Hence, consider using a reverse chronological or hybrid resume format.
Don’t know what it is? No problem. Here is a small breakdown for each:
- Chronological Format: If you use this format, it is better to emphasise your skills and achievements from the most recent to the oldest. (Don’t mention the ones that feel like you are from Jurassic World.)
- Hybrid: In this one, you include your skills first, then the achievement, and solely state the work experiences.
- A Pro Tip: There are many pre-made resume templates available online. Hence, if you want, consider using them.
5. Prove That You Are Tech Savvy
With technological advancements in the workplace, employers must know if you are tech-savvy.
So it is essential for you to highlight it in your resume. Research your job description and see what software they are currently using. Additionally, gain knowledge about them so that way you won’t be lying in the resume.
WordStat, AutoCAD, and Microsoft—they are the most outdated ones. So don’t be silly including them in your resume. Instead, you can talk about Illustrator, Slack, ASL, and Marketo.
6. Focus on Your Lingo
Always remember that our language can tell you a lot about your age. Therefore, consider using the Gen-Z lingo if you don’t want to face ageism. We are not saying that you start using slang. (Please don’t make this mistake). Instead, consider using words that make you sound like a youngster.
Furthermore, skip the formal tone and replace it with conversational ones. Als,o stay updated about your industry-relevant words. Just make sure to spell and grammar check before submitting.
7. Highlight Transferable Skills
Don’t forget to highlight your transferable skills. From strong communication to leadership and creative skills, pay attention to what makes you stand out. Additionally, you can even talk about the industry’s relevant skills. Just make sure not to talk about the ones you did in 2010. Even skip those that are not related to your job.
8. Use Relevant Keywords
Nowadays, hiring managers use applicant tracking software to find relevant resumes. Hence, if you want to get an interview call, it is better to use relevant keywords. Make sure that they align with your job description perfectly. Furthermore, don’t overstuff the resume with them.
9. Tailor According to the Job
We repeat this: Always tailor the resume according to your job. If you are using the one size fit all approach, it might be the reason you are not getting a call. Therefore, always customize the CV related to your position and role.
10. Get Professional Help
Don’t know how to write a resume to avoid age discrimination? No problem! Consider seeking guidance from the Expert Resume Writers Adelaide. They have expertise and can help you create a CV that will get a call back from a manager.
Wrapping Up!
So that is a wrap! Writing a resume to avoid age discrimination is not that hard. By following simple tips like dropping your age, omitting grade year, showing you are tech-savvy, highlighting transferable skills, and using relevant keywords, you can create a solid CV that makes you stand out despite your age. Furthermore, don’t forget to tailor your resume according to the job description. Also, if you still face problems, consider connecting with professionals. So, create your CV and find your dream job.
