While some people believe that it is more difficult to get a job when you're over the age of 50, according to the Society for Human Resource Management, that is a stereotype that is not always true. Attitude is one of the most important ingredients in a successful job search. Older applicants with enthusiastic, positive attitudes land just as many good jobs as their younger counterparts. That attitude also must be reflected in your resume in order to land you an interview.
Experience
Human resource consultants at the Society for Human Resource Management report that every resume should be tailored to the job for which you are applying. In this respect, older applicants have an advantage because they usually have more experiences on which they can draw. Choose at least three examples of previous experiences that translate well to the job for which you are applying. Highlight those on your resume under work experience or a section labeled skills.
Dates
It is important that future employers know that your skills and training are current and up-to-date. While many skills are ageless, such as the ability to turn a phrase or to close a sale, avoid putting dates on your resume that could be interpreted as outdated. Additionally, dates of employment and graduations can set off a potential employer's prejudices toward older workers before you even have a chance to prove your worth.
Format
According to Quintessential Careers, a functional resume format is ideal for older job hunters who want to omit dates or at least reduce their relevance. Instead of listing your work experience in order of jobs held, cluster your skills together in separate headings. Place the name of the previous employer that utilized those skills in each section. Add a few examples to demonstrate the capacity in which you used those skills in each section as well.
Job Titles
Consultants at Quintessential Careers suggest that job titles may put some hiring managers off and set you up for rejection based on the premise that you're over-qualified. Using the functional, or skill-based format also frees you up to omit job titles, especially those that are irrelevant to the position you're currently seeking. For example, if you were a senior vice president at a bank and you're trying to land a job as a middle manager, the two seem incongruous. However, if you were a middle manager at a company and are seeking a lateral move, the title may be more appropriate.
Transference
Many older job applicants spent worthwhile time and energy in activities that were unpaid or not work related, yet are relevant to the current application. You should include the skills you practiced as a volunteer or board member with a charity. If you have big gaps in employment history, the functional resume, coupled with skills and accomplishments derived from volunteer work is appropriate for a resume.
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