Let’s say that you snagged the next step in a great job opportunity from Creative Talent Management. You are preparing for the interview and discover that the person who will quiz you is much much younger. Your nerves begin to tremble and you begin to worry about the entire meeting. How can you present yourself so that you don’t appear as know-it-all? Here are some tips for making a great impression.
The Elephant in the Room
You can assume that the interviewer has at least half a brain, so don’t start out the interview by bringing attention to their age either. Don’t insult them by being amazed that they could get to where they are even though they are so young. This is not a strong start.
Keeping Up with the Industry
Your youngin’ interviewee might assume that you have little to no knowledge of industry trends and thought leaders. Insert pertinent points about these so you alert them to the fact that you are in touch with the trends and care about continuing to grow in the position.
Keep it Recent
Unfortunately, a lot of people generally have little interest in things that happened before they were born. This relates to possible career points that have occurred maybe while your interviewer was a baby. Focus your experience on the most recent 10 years of your career. This way, you can show how perfect and qualified you are for the job, without appearing to be over-qualified.
Use Your Age to Your Advantage
Being older means you most definitely have experiences your interviews won’t. You will likely be able to showcase your ability management skills, budget allocation, and big successful business decisions you have made.
You need to be able to show your younger interviewer that your age is truly a number. If either party gets the impression that they are stuck in their ways or forcing new methods just for the sake of them, the partnership won’t work. Focus on the skills and experience of everyone involved.
Positives of Being at Your Previous Company for Decades
Loyalty to your previous company is a good thing. But a different generation might see it differently. Explain to your interviewer the numerous opportunities you took to team-build, collaborate, and be flexible during your tenure. This will illustrate that you are willing and able to continue these excellent skills in this new position.
Ready to Take on Your Next Interviewer?
Contact an experienced recruiter at 800.338.4327. Simplify and expedite your job search (or research) process the moment you need it with Creative Talent Management.
