Interview tips for older workers
One basic piece of advice is to address employers’ concerns as perception can be very important
Even though employers can't legally ask you directly about your age, they sometimes ask questions during a job interview to try to determine how old you are. Anticipate possible questions and have non-defensive, upbeat answers. Review tips and advice for successful interviewing for older seekers, including how to make the experience an asset, what to wear, how to address age issues, and how to stay positive at a time when interviewing can be especially challenging.
Here are some simple tips to help with your interview preparation.
Before the day of the interview
Refresh Your Interviewing skills - If you haven't interviewed in a while, you may be surprised that interviewing has changed. Many interviewers now employ behavioural interviewing techniques. You will need to provide examples of how you have applied sought-after skills in various projects and roles. Employers are also now more focused on evaluating how candidates have produced results and impacted outcomes. You should review each of your past jobs and be prepared to describe situations where you applied relevant skills and the results which you generated
Do a practice interview. A practice interview will not only help settle your nerves, it'll help you to realise how prepared you are to answer the questions. If you can, practice with a friend who is in the workforce, a former colleague or simply in front of a family member or friend. Ask them how you come across and what areas you can improve upon.
Read the job specification and job description again. Familiarise yourself once again with the job description and person specification, as well as your covering letter, CV and application form.
Do some background research. Knowing a few key facts about the organisation can really help in the interview. It shows you have made the effort to find out more about the organisation and the job role/requirements. Ideally you will have a couple of questions about the company/job “up your sleeve” which you can drop in during the interview – this will demonstrate your preparedness and keenness to secure the role that you have applied for.
You should also ask about the interview format, so you know what to expect on the day.
Plan for the interview day. Double-check the time of the interview, where it will take place, and how long it will take to get there. Plan your route and your leaving time, giving yourself plenty of time to get there without feeling rushed or stressed. Make sure you take a note of their phone number in case you’re running late.
Keep It Positive - It can be discouraging when it seems like what you’re doing isn’t working. Consider each interview as another chance to get a work opportunity and do your best to be upbeat. Your posture and body language provide an opportunity to exude energy and vitality. Stand up straight, have a spring in your step and reach out to all the people you meet with enthusiasm. Make sure your voice is vibrant and not monotone. Think about projecting an energetic aura at all times.
How to Address Being Overqualified - If you are wanting to change from a stressful career to a less pressured but more fulfilling one, as many older workers do, employers may view you as being overqualified for the job you are applying for. You can combat this perception by clearly describing your enthusiasm for the specific duties associated with the work. It will help if you can reference how satisfying it was for you to carry out similar functions in the recent past
Think about and prepare what you are going to wear. Pick out what you will wear and have it ready. Try it on in advance to ensure it fits properly and looks suitable for the interview.
On the day of the interview
Aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time, just in case you need to sign into the building or find the right room.
If you are running late, phone ahead and let them know
Avoid unnecessary distractions – put your mobile phone on silent
What should I expect at the job interview?
The interview could take place with one person or several people, or possibly in front of a panel.
Many interviews will consist of a set of pre-determined questions, which are asked of all candidates. You may notice your interviewer(s) writing comments as you answer. Don’t be unnerved by this – it’s just so they can go back over their notes later to help them make their decision. Sometimes they will score you on your answers and add up the scores later to see which candidate received the highest marks.
Some employers ask candidates to sit a test or to prepare a presentation for their interview. If you have to prepare a presentation, make sure you have all the materials you need with you, including any handouts.
Check with the employer in advance if you plan to use a PowerPoint presentation, as you will need to make sure they have the equipment available or arrange to bring it yourself.