LOOK RIGHT FOR THE RIGHT ROLE
JOBSEEKERS in the second half of their working lives – or later – may only need a few minor tweaks to how they present themselves to land their next job.
Career Consultancy director Catherine Cunningham says if workers take a few simple measures to apply and present themselves appropriately, there is no reason why they cannot get another job.
She says trying to get help four days out from an application deadline or interview is too late, and it can take six months to iron out some issues, such as a bad habit to fidget.
They need to find a savvy friend, or engage a career counsellor, to advise about their personal appearance, which may not mean addressing anything inappropriate, but how to portray a modern attitude.
In readiness of attending a job interview, men are advised to visit a department store midweek, when it is quiet, and tell the sales assistant they are going to a job interview and require a “sharp outfit”.
“That does not necessarily mean you’re going to buy a suit,” Cunningham says.
A bland outfit can provide an underwhelming impression on the hirer, but complementing bland pants with a strong coloured shirt, for example, gives a bolder appearance.
She says it is much harder for women, however, as they need to consider such things as if they are wearing two different shades of black, or if a ponytail is better swapped for a plait.
“There’s more chance to get it wrong if you’re a female,” she says.
“Have an integrated look — look like you’ve co-ordinated the top and bottom.
“(Some) clothing may take power away from a female, it makes them look like they are lacking in power, like ‘isn’t she sweet’.”
When gunning for an internal promotion, first look at what those at the next level of seniority in the workplace are wearing and aim to take a step up from that dress code.
For example, if the standard for men is T-shirts, astute workers may want to wear a polo shirt with a collar instead.
STILL LEARNING: VALUES SHINE THROUGH AT ANY AGE
AGE was not a concern for Suzanne Jeffries when she decided to look for a new job — until she went to apply.
“I do think, when you’re over 50, you wonder ‘how will this affect me getting a job?’,” she says. “There was some nerves there.”
The 53-year-old was employed as an administration assistant at Goodstart Early Learning 12 months ago and says she loves the lively, friendly environment. Jeffries received advice from a family member to keep her resume succinct and only include information relevant to the job she was applying for.
She also targeted her job search to roles and companies which aligned with her own vision and values.
Her Goodstart Early Learning employer, centre director Bianca Edom, believes many older workers have positive attributes many younger workers may not hold.
“Some educators come and go from the sector because they are not quite sure where they want to be and which career path they want to go down,” she says. “How motivated you are makes a difference.”