You have read tips on how to improve your resume as a mature job seeker. After making the changes to your resume, you are now timidly wondering how you should approach the actual interview. Being a mature job seeker in a saturated candidate pool of recent graduates and millennials can be overwhelming.
However, with a few pointers, you can go into the interview with a better chance at making a great impression on the hiring manager amongst all of the other applicants.
1. Dress for Success
Dressing for success really has not changed much over the years, with the exception of style changes.
Interviewing with a hiring manager is your first impression. If you start that interview off with wrinkled, stained, or unprofessional attire, you will likely be passed over regardless of your age.
The night before your interview, make sure that your clothes are clean and ironed. Be sure to have selected neutral colors that will not shock the eye of the hiring manager.
2. Updated Resume
Of course, by this point, you have updated your resume in order to reflect your qualifications and skills in today’s job market. The last thing you want to do is show up to your interview without a copy or with only one copy of your resume.
The night before your interview, print off 5 copies of your resume to take with you, along with several lists of references.
Some hiring managers will have other colleagues or team members join the interview. In this case, it is always better to have extra copies of your resumes to share with them.
3. Positive Attitude
A positive attitude is key in any interview. Even if you feel discouraged after seeing a professional, enthusiastic millennial job seeker leave just before your scheduled interview, do not let this alter your attitude.
Remember, you have experience in your line of work which that millennial may not come even close to matching. When hiring managers are making decisions on who they will move forward with, they are going to remember the skilled candidate with the positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills.
Stay upbeat, explain your experience and skills, but also remain excited and open to learning new skills and ways of business.
4. Understanding Modern Interviewing Techniques
Interviewing has changed over the years. In the past, you may have experienced interviews where you were asked a ton of questions with no real conversation. Today, you will notice that many interviews are more conversational, having different styles and locations.
Many employers are using video interviews as a way to quickly decipher a candidate’s skills and cultural fit. Be prepared to receive requests for one-way or live video interviews during your job search. Research video interview tips and remember that by being familiar with the newer interviewing techniques, you are already making a positive impression on the hiring manager.
In addition, be prepared for interviews to be scheduled over a cup of coffee or lunch. Many employers are interested in seeing a job seeker in a real-world situation in order to have a more relaxed conversation.
What are some ways that you prepare for an interview as a mature job seeker? Please share your tips below.
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