The Value of Experience in Today’s Job Market

In my coaching and résumé writing work, I often meet professionals who have recently been laid off and are worried that their age will work against them in the job search.

If that resonates with you, I want to pause here and remind you of something important: your years of experience are not a liability—they are an incredible asset.

Experienced professionals bring with them:

• A wealth of industry knowledge

• Strong and lasting networks

• Leadership and steadiness in uncertain times

• Problem-solving skills built through lived experience

• The ability to manage risk and navigate change

• High-level negotiation expertise

• A natural gift for mentoring and developing others

(Thanks to Marni Gordon for curating this great list—read her full article here: https://tinyurl.com/4mczu8uf)

What strikes me most about this is how deeply valuable historical perspective can be. Those who have lived through the ups and downs of an industry are able to make better, more grounded decisions. They also bring stability when things feel uncertain and can serve as trusted mentors to colleagues who are newer in their careers.

These qualities don’t just make you “qualified.” They make you an exceptional hire.

And yet, I also want to name the reality: ageism exists. It can show up in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. (I’ll be sharing strategies in an upcoming post about how to lessen the impact of ageism in your search.)

For now, I’d love to hear from you:
👉 If you’re an experienced professional, what strengths do you feel you bring to the table?
👉 If you’ve worked with experienced colleagues, what qualities stood out most to you?

Have questions? Not sure where to start? I’d love to help! Schedule a complimentary Discovery Call with me here.