One of the most important things you can do for your job search is to show hiring managers what you can bring to the table. Older adults who are currently looking for work need to be able to demonstrate their value when applying for jobs and interviewing.
Do you know how to show employers what you can add to their company? Here are some ways to demonstrate value during your job search.
How to show value to employers
Whether you’re trying to re-enter the workforce or move up in your current position, showing value is key for success. Try these tips for demonstrating worth in the workplace.
1. Define success from your experiences
Older workers have the advantage of past work experiences. Utilize this experience to demonstrate what you’ve proven to bring to the table while job searching.
Before focusing on the current roles you are applying for, take a look back at how previous roles defined success. Be able to talk about how previous positions measured success and what you accomplished while at each company.
2. Make a list
Creating a list of your past successes will help you speak confidently about your value and highlight achievements on your resume. Take some time to write down the times when you went above and beyond for a successful outcome.
The examples you write down will depend on the previous roles you held. For example, if you worked in sales, you might note a period where you handled an above-average number of clients. Having a physical list on paper, your computer, or your phone will help you navigate conversations with hiring managers.
3. Use the right words
Some keywords will signal value to employers. Use these words any time you are working toward a new position, including in your resume, on your LinkedIn page, and during an interview.
Examples of value-related keywords include:
- Achieved/nominated/won
- Created
- Decreased/increased
- Developed
- Generated
- Improved
Action verbs that demonstrate value will stick out to employers. Be sure that you are honest and grammatically correct when talking about your successes.
4. List any awards or recognitions
Awards can show hiring managers that past employers have recognized your value. Be sure to include them when talking to employers.
You might have been recognized as employee of the month, the highest salesperson, or the most impactful teacher. Or, you might have participated in a certification or job training program. Whatever the recognition, be sure to add context about what the award stands for so that employers understand what you achieved.
5. Put numbers to your successes
Being specific about your achievements will help you land the job you want. Quantify your successful outcomes to provide hard evidence of your qualifications.
For example, you could say “I was a great sales team member” to a hiring manager.
But, saying something like this will be more impactful: “I was able to increase sales by 25%.”
Including specific details about your value gives employers a better picture of what you can do. Other ways to quantify success include time saved, costs reduced, or processes improved.
Are you 55 or older and trying to re-enter the workforce? VANTAGE’s Workforce Solutions provides paid training to older Ohioans who want to get back into the workforce. Through the duration of the pandemic, you can train from the safety of your home. Request an application to get started in 38 Ohio counties.
*The information in this article is intended solely to provide general information on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts full responsibility for its use. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors.
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