A week does not go by that I don't hear from our "seasoned" professionals about concern of age holding them back from great career opportunities as an employee or employed as a consultant. I say the same thing to most of them - I don't believe it for a second!
Age does not matter, but here is what does: adding value every day - learning every day and investing in self so to be smarter and a better mentor than your peers. Taking good care of your body and mind. That is the personal brand experience people trust and buy over a number.
It is no coincidence that the healthy looking and acting boomers with energy and passion still get the nod. That, coupled with adding value through networking and community service give the employer confidence that the boomer will add value with energy and passion for time to come. That continues to inspire people.
A message to the young: many of the boomers say "I wish I..." often. It is sad. Take care of your mind and body now. Network. Invest in You - take control. Learn every day and add value to your network and community and it will be a no-brainer for folks to pay you for your expertise as long into your "retirement" as you dream.
The people that judge you by age can really be missing the mark. Younger people can and are doing amazing things in business and around the world. As long as you have integrity at a young age, it doesn't matter how old you are. Often to get noticed, young people have to rise above the pack, lead, and provide value every day. Don't let age be a hinderance to your success.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | August 15, 2007 8:02 PM | Permalink to Comment