Don’t fear a mid-career mudslide

For newcomers to the real world, we’ve heard the countless lectures about being prepared for failure in our professional careers. At the same time, we’re encouraged to be open to the opportunities of failure in the beginning, since we have nothing to lose and a fresh resume to inspire us to one day be the qualified individual we strive to be.

But what about those professionals that have been there, done that, and just got laid off from their job they’ve held for almost 25 years? How do you re-brand yourself and start all over again after you’ve already been in the game so long? Yes, you have a running list of qualifications that trail almost off the page, but revamping your professional self also includes avoiding the deadly cut for being too qualified, too old-school and unwilling to change.

There are always looming fears of appearing overqualified, being a victim of age discrimination, not being able to get back to the position you’ve been so perfectly molded for, being unhappy in a work setting that will never compare to your previous one and not making the same amount of money you did before. These fears are enough to drive a veteran professional even further down their career mudslide.

However, with every major blow comes the opportunity to strengthen your professional image and discover just how truly resilient you can be in your professional life.

First, take a look at your resume. In some cases, it might be worth it to start off with a whole new layout and a whole new structure, but try to hone in on the important and most up-to-date information you have listed and erase some of the more obsolete and outdated listings.

Also, if you fear appearing too overqualified, don’t overstate your job titles. Keep your bullet points concise and to the point, but do not over embellish. If you know what you are capable of offering to a company, emphasize your commitment during an interview.

If you happen to have important technical skills, highlight those in your resume, especially if you are able to operate a new software, up-to-date computer programs, have familiarity with various social media networks, etc. Having technical skills is extremely important in the modern era where everything is becoming more computer and online based. If you are tech-savvy, it is vital to note that, especially if you are an older professional trying to make a new impression.

Finding the job that best suits you requires more than just submitting an application online. As an experienced professional, it’s time to take out the list of professional contacts you have made and start connecting again. Networking is always going to be important no matter what stage you’re in during your career. Getting in touch with the right people and speaking with them is a good way to get your foot in the door. One advantage that older professionals have is their skills interacting with other professionals, especially if you were once sitting in that seat hiring qualified individuals. Think of what would appeal to you as an employer and do your research. Finding out the strengths of the company and matching those up with your strengths is a great way to connect when you do talk to any contacts.

Another very viable option that many experienced professionals might overlook is potentially starting their own small business. With the level of experience that some professionals have, it might be worth taking the risk to lead your own force, especially if you’re geared with the right assets that set you apart from others. Every new business takes time to grow and patience to nurture, but if your financial predicament allows you the flexibility to start small and slowly move up, the risk could be worth taking.

As scary as a career makeover might seem, change is inevitable and finding the balance between old and new is a skill that only you can truly master on your own.

Source: Monster, Black Enterprise, Nextavenue