Here's how you can showcase your value and expertise to employers or clients in your late career.
Navigating the latter stages of your career can be both exciting and daunting. As you approach this phase, it's crucial to effectively communicate the breadth of your experience and the depth of your expertise to potential employers or clients. Strategic communications is not just about conveying information; it's about crafting a message that resonates and demonstrates your unique value proposition. Whether you're looking to continue in your current field or pivot to a new industry, showing that you're not just keeping up, but leading the way, is key to securing those opportunities that will enrich your late career.
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Sarita PadminiCyber Security Advisor | Leader | Board Member | Strategist | Data Privacy | Public Policy | CISA | CPISI | CCSA |
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Anushree Goel, MPHProgram Management & Strategic Communications Expert | Presidential Management Fellowship Finalist 2024 | MPH, Johns…
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Barry ShillerFounder at Shiller Strategic Communications
Your career history is a treasure trove of achievements and learning experiences. When talking to potential employers or clients, emphasize the challenges you've overcome and the projects you've led to success. This isn't just about listing past job titles; it's about telling a story that illustrates your problem-solving abilities, leadership qualities, and the tangible results you've achieved. Think of your career as a narrative that showcases growth, resilience, and the ability to adapt to changing landscapes.
In a rapidly evolving job market, staying current with industry trends and technologies is vital. Take the time to update your skill set and understand new methodologies or tools that are relevant to your field. This demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and shows that you are not resting on past laurels but are actively preparing for future challenges. Highlighting recent certifications or courses can also underscore your dedication to maintaining expertise in your area.
The professional network you've built over the years is one of your greatest assets. Leverage these connections by engaging in meaningful conversations about industry trends, sharing insights, and seeking endorsements. Your network can not only vouch for your expertise and character but also open doors to new opportunities. Showcasing your value through a robust professional network reflects your influence and standing within your industry.
Strategic communication involves tailoring your message to your audience. When engaging with potential employers or clients, customize your approach to address their specific needs and challenges. By presenting your experience in a way that aligns with their goals, you make it easy for them to see how your expertise can be an asset to them. This personalized approach can set you apart from others who may take a more generic route in presenting their qualifications.
One of the advantages of being in the later stages of your career is the wealth of knowledge you've accumulated. Share this wisdom by mentoring others, writing thought leadership articles, or speaking at industry events. This not only reinforces your status as an expert but also demonstrates your willingness to give back to the community. Sharing your insights can often lead to new opportunities as it raises your profile and keeps you connected to the pulse of the industry.
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Experience is the best teacher. In the later stages of our careers, we are not only more knowledgeable but more importantly have accumulated enough experience to share with others. My mother, a retired civil servant in India with four decades of experience and leadership in policy and administration continues to provide consulting and advisory services through part-time assignments. We can share via social media, blogs, industry meetings, mentorship, and stakeholder consultations. Sharing our wisdom/insights sharpens our skills, strengthens our status as an expert and can lead to new opportunities for professional growth and financial security and living with a sense of purpose and social connection, key ingredients for healthy longevity.
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“Sharing wisdom” caught my eye because, in my experience, being the “oldest person in the room” has subliminal implications. Age connotes wisdom; it also can be associated with outdated thinking, stale instincts and dated skills. Stereotypes? Maybe. But rather than ignore or talk around them, I’ve found it better to lean in and show co-workers, clients and others that I’m not “stale.” Here’s how: 1. Curiosity. I’m incessantly interested in how others think and what they know. (It’s got to be real; you can’t fake it.) 2. Humility. Want to turn people off? Start every thought with “I …..”. Better to focus on them. (“You said …”. Could you elaborate?”) 3. Self-awareness. Vocabulary, attire, cultural awareness - all send signals.
Finally, focus on how you can solve problems for employers or clients. Rather than simply listing your skills, discuss how you can apply them to generate results. This solution-oriented approach is highly attractive to potential collaborators, as it shows that you're not just knowledgeable but also practical and results-driven. It's about proving that your expertise translates into real-world benefits for those you work with.
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