Branding Tips for Men Age 50+
Branding is essential for a career. In a competitive market, meeting 100% of the job qualifications may not be enough. You must show how you are better. ExecuNet’s survey of 3,785 executives indicated that a Vice President over the age of 50 takes 20% longer to get hired than a 45-year-old competitor. Another interesting data point is that 43% of the 47-year-old executive survey respondents felt that their age is an issue. On top of the age issue, men may be lagging in the branding department. In the article, “Why Women Are The Superior Marketing Sex” by Mark Ritson, the author points out research-based reasons why women are better at branding, among other marketing functions. Below we’ll highlight you key branding tips to enhance your professional brand.
Get in the Door
Create a contemporary-looking resume that communicates your value. Eliminate experience more than 15 years old and college graduation dates. Share your ability to use all forms of technology relevant to the job, 
including communication tools. Feature recent professional development to relay that you are a lifelong learner. On the resume and in the interview, express that you are the “aspirin to their pain” because problem solvers are ageless and are in high demand.
Look the Part
It does not have to be “love at first sight,” however, the first impression is critical. Women are more conscious of their appearance. Men: remember that you are judged by your appearance too, so adopt a modern hair style, groom yourself impeccably, stay in shape as best you can, and invest in a stylish, professional wardrobe.
Show That You Are a Fit
Hiring managers and recruiters may have concerns whether a 50-something can relate to an organization comprised of much younger workers. Communicate that you are a team player, willing to listen to the ideas 
of anyone on the team. Today’s workplace is more connected and collaborative. In the interview, share examples of your team projects.
A Web Presence is Crucial for Your Survival
Establish a personally-branded website to showcase your professional accomplishments, portfolio of work, links to publications, and possibly a blog. This becomes a one-stop destination for your professional brand. Beyond your website, delve into social media. Not participating on LinkedIn is a negative differentiator because it indicates that you are behind the times, uninformed, or lazy. This is where hiring decision-makers will be looking to learn more about you. In many cases, this is the spot where you will be initially found. Join relevant groups and network. Other social media brand builders include Google+ and Twitter.
Show that You Are an Expert
Share your professional expertise by launching a blog focused on an aspect of your occupation, market, or industry. You can cover a broad topic or cover a specialized subject. If creating and managing your own blog is too large a task, contribute to other blogs relevant to your field.
Network
After 20 or 30 years in a career, one can become complacent about networking. You might be so busy in your career that networking does not seem worth the time. At this stage in your career, networking is very important. Stay active within your associations and strive for leadership roles. Network online by posting on forums, commenting on others’ posts, and connecting individually with others.
If personal marketing and branding is not a natural talent that you possess, don’t worry. With some work and focus, these are skills and habits that you can adopt. Armed with a strong branding strategy, you can show your advantages at any stage of your career.