Do's and Don'ts

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Do's and Don'ts for the Mature Worker

In the employment of mature workers, there is not more important person that the individual worker. Obtaining a job frequently means adjustments on the part of the applicant to change in the world of work, inn pay, in working conditions and location.

Too frequently the mature job seeker is his/her own stumbling block. Instead of accenting his/her ability and skill when applying for a job, the mature worker sometimes magnifies the matter of age. Often the mature worker will feel that they were not chosen for the position because of age -- never realizing that they might have fallen short of the job requirements.

To help the mature job seeker, the "National Association of Manufacturers on Employment of the Mature Worker" as complied these Do's and Don'ts. This list is not all inclusive. Locating a suitable job takes time and thought. These suggestions from a group of employment specialist are worth careful consideration.

Do's Don'ts
Stress your qualifications for the job opening Keep stressing your need for a job.
Recount experience you have had which would fit you for the job. Discuss past experience which has no application to the job situation.
Talk and think, so far as possible, about the future rather than the past. Apologize for your age.
Indicate where possible, your stability attendance record, and good safety experience. Be untidy in appearance.
Remember that older employees are capable, dependable, trainable, careful, and steady. Cringe or beg for consideration.
Try to learn ahead of time about the company and it's products. Speak with muffled voice and indistinctly.
Assume an air of confidence. Be one of those who can do anything.
Approach the employer with respectful dignity. Hedge in answering questions.
Try to be optimistic in your attitude. Express your ideas on compensation, hours, etc….early in the interview.
Maintain your poise and self-control. Depend upon the telephone for a job.
Try to overcome nervousness or shortness of breath. Hesitate to fill out applications, give references, take physical examinations or test on request.
Hold yourself erect. Go to the interview without a record of your former work connections.
Answer questions honestly and with straight forwardness. Arrive late and breathless for an interview.
Stress the contribution you can make to the enterprise. Be a "know it all" or a person who can't take instructions.
Be well-groomed and appropriately dressed. Isolate yourself from contacts who might help you find a job.
Have available a list of former employers, time and period of service. Fell the world owes you a living.
Apply for the job in person. Make claims if you cannot deliver on the job.
Let as many people as possible know you are job hunting. Display feelings of inferiority.
Know the importance of getting along with people.  
Recognize your limitations.  
Apply at plenty of places.  
Indicate your flexibility and readiness to learn.