How to look for a job at 40?

Getting a job at the age of 40 or so is far more difficult than candidates who are in their twenties. Recruiters and hiring managers will have more questions to ask a person when they hit mid-life and the many loopholes will have to be answered and explained that the younger employees can skip.

Common perception among employers is that older workers will cost more, will be less technology savvy and come with some sort of baggage, which may not necessarily fit into the new company’s culture.

Here are some common concerns that stay on the mind of potential employers but can easily be tackled to ensure that your being older does not work against you.

1# Get ready to explain any gaps

Most employers would expect that by the age of 40 you should be well settled in your career and the only reason you would want another job is for the better.

But, that may not be the only case. You could be on the look-out for the simple reason that you’ve been out of the job market. This could be because of personal reasons or the economy could be the culprit.

But either way get ready for an explanation to make them understand the gaps in your employment history.

Give them convincing answers - why you were laid off or why you’d quit your job? An employee who is often out of job can be considered as an incompetent one who is easily sacked.

2# Be prepared to learn new tricks

Many employers believe as employees get older they are more reluctant to learn new strategies and things as opposed to younger ones. This may not be true and sometimes is irrelevant in many industries.

Previous research shows that many people well in their 50s and 60s continue to pick newer things on the job but this can’t beat the common perception.

So, the best way is to prepare yourself for questions that will try to seek answers to your ability to learn and adapt.

Ensure your potential employers that you are committed and have been committed to lifelong learning and do not shy from trying new techniques that work demands.

Also, make sure that you are very familiar with technology, especially if your jobs entails a lot of technological work.

2# Be open to salary negotiation

The job market is nowhere near pre-2008 levels so adjust your salary expectations accordingly.  If you are coming to the UAE for a job and expect an all-expenses paid ‘expat package’ it’s quite likely that many companies may not be able to meet up to your expectations.

Just the belief that every year of experience should get you a double digit pay hike will not even push you to the next round of interviews.

A previous survey carried out by online job portal, Bayt.com shows that fat expat package is not the norm anymore.

The findings show that a fifth of UAE respondents (20 per cent) receive their basic salary only, while 65 per cent receive their basic salary plus benefits. A third (33 per cent) state that 51 to 75 per cent of their salary package is their basic monthly salary.

Additional benefits received from UAE companies include personal medical insurance (50 per cent), personal annual air ticket (46 per cent), and gratuity (33 per cent) – and that’s it.

If you are new to the country, best would be to familiarise yourself with the ground reality and adjust accordingly.

4# Show them the attitude of a 20-year old

Let the employers see a youngster in you who is not wary of doing long hours if needed, travelling for work and doing extra work on the weekends.

Presenting a positive mental attitude is very important and in today’s market it is as important as your qualifications and experience.

Try offering them the energy of a 20-year old coupled with a strong professional network, perspective and a depth of experience that comes with age and it won’t be difficult to beat younger competition.