While it is true that Baby Boomers have been hard hit in the current job market, age is generally not the biggest factor getting in the way of their job hunt.
The biggest factor is a dated resume that fails to deliver what today’s companies and hiring managers want.
Standards for resumes have changed since many of the Boomers applied for their last job. For one, most resumes are first read by a computerized Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These systems “read” the resume by looking for specific information – such as a summary, education, work experience, certifications, memberships (possibly), and awards. The system looks for keywords based on the job announcement, and scores the resume based on the keywords the program can read. Only the top scoring resumes are forwarded to the hiring manager.
A second change is that resumes are now expected to focus, not on tasks, but on accomplishments. The hiring manager will read the resume to be sure the applicant has accomplishments; the best applicant doesn’t simply perform tasks, but contributes to a company’s success.
If a resume is not picked by the ATS, the hiring manager will never read it. If a resume does not show how the applicant meets the job requirements with accomplishments, the hiring manager will decide against an interview.
A third change centers on resume format and content. Resumes are longer; the rule about sticking to one page no longer applies. Summaries have replaced objectives. Certain phrases have disappeared (notably, “References on request”) and information on marital status and health is actively discouraged.
Is your resume stuck in the standards and style of 5, 10, or 20 years ago? Let me ensure it conforms to current standards. Contact Robin’s Resumes® and smooth your re-entry into the job market.