Job interviews can be nerve-racking, especially if you haven’t been on one in many years. On top of that, as an older applicant, you may have to prove that your age is not a drawback. But if you know what kinds of questions you’ll be asked and you have savvy answers ready to go, you’ll be several steps ahead of the game. Here are three questions you should be prepared to answer on your next job interview.
• Do you have the energy and skills to get the job done?
Stereotypes that older workers are slow or out of touch do exist. Bill Coleman, a vice president with RetirementJobs.com, says you can combat that stereotype before you even open your mouth by dressing in polished and modern attire. You can also demonstrate that you are energetic by walking briskly and speaking enthusiastically, Coleman says.
Of course, offer plenty of examples of your professional accomplishments. It is critical that those examples be recent and tangible, says Bruce Hurwitz, chief executive officer of Hurwitz Strategic Staffing, a New York City executive-recruiting firm. You may be proud of the major client you landed two decades ago, but that is unlikely to impress your interviewer. Instead, Hurwitz recommends giving an example from the last few years, if possible.• Why are you reentering the work force, and what have you been doing during your time off?
If you were laid off, took some time off to care for a sick spouse or are going back to work for financial reasons, you can be honest about that. What’s more important is how you’ve spent your time away from the office, according to Mary Greenwood, author of “How to Interview Like a Pro.”
If you’ve been volunteering or working in your industry as a part-time consultant, talk about the experience you’ve gained from those endeavors. You can show that you are up-to-date in your field in subtler ways. “Mention a cutting-edge book you’ve read, or make reference to some new industry regulations,” Greenwood says.
• Why are you willing to accept a demotion or lower salary?
You may be overqualified for the job if you have worked three decades in your field. Greenwood says you can turn your experience into a selling point. She advises saying something like this: “I’ve done everything in this field. I saw this job, and this is the part I enjoy the most, so for that reason I am willing to take a pay cut.”
By Meghan Streit, Kiplinger’s Retirement Report
