Should I make myself younger to compete in job market?
Dear Deb:
I work for a large aerospace company. We just lost our contract and everyone in our location has been offered the option of moving from California to Maryland or taking severance. I elected severance. When I met with the job search counselor, she suggested that I get Botox and update my hairstyle to be competitive in the job market. I am 51 years old and have played beach volleyball since the 70s, so yes I have a few lines. But, do I really need Juvederm and Botox to get a new job?
Cassie, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Dear Cassie:
Wow, that’s harsh. I have never recommended that a client have plastic surgery or injections. However, I have performed youth restorative procedures on hundreds of resumes. Here’s my advice, Cassie. If you are considering pursuing restorative procedures, talk to a dermatologist about the risks, costs, anticipated outcome, and maintenance. After consulting your doctor, if you determine it’s right for you, go for it. But don’t let the job search be the only reason for the treatment.
Ageism does exist and younger candidates do better in a competitive market. I definitely would recommend that you update your wardrobe, make-up, hairstyle, and accessories. If you have a choice between contacts and glasses, opt for contact lenses in an interview.
More importantly, I would recommend an update to your resume. Remove graduation dates. Only show the most recent 10 to 15 years of experience on your resume. Get rid of hints that you have not written a resume in 25 years. Things such as “References gladly provided upon request” and an objective statement are no longer used on resumes. Use more contemporary resume fonts such as Verdana or Calibri.
You may not need the Botox. If you walk in the interview with vigor and confidence, you will look youthful and ready for any challenge. Wishing you all the best, Cassie!
To read another article related to ageism in the job market, click here.
If you have a question for Deb, please email debra@careersdonewrite.com. The Ask Deb column appears every Friday on our blog at the Careers Done Write website.