Looking for a job? Older workers should sell the advantage of experience and downplay age. Here are other hints:

• Confidence is key. You need to look healthy and energetic.
• Age has advantages. Indicate the benefits that come only with experience, using words such as “coach” and “mentor.”
• Avoid phrases such as "we did that 20 years ago, and it didn't work," even if true. Instead, offer reasoned pros and cons that illustrate an important selling point for older workers: the value of experience.
• Pay attention to grooming. If a graying beard makes you look older, consider shaving.
• If dyeing your hair will improve your confidence, it might be a good decision, but if it will make you uneasy, forget it. Men, be aware that eyebrows and beards should match.
• There's no need to put more than 15 years of experience on a resume. But for job applications, be prepared with all names and dates.
• Be vague about your salary history - you might either price yourself out of a job or undersell yourself. Try using the phrase "my salary expectations are…" and base those expectations on a market rate for that position. If pressed, be truthful and don't waffle. A decisive and energetic tone is particularly important for an older person.
• Don't slouch or yawn in the interview. Don't daydream.
• Practice telling a story about your experience. Make it energy-packed and dynamic.
• Be ready for the question about working for someone younger. Relate a successful incident, describing what you added to the relationship.
• Have a ready answer to explain your job loss.
• Don't sound bitter or angry, even if it's justified. No one wants to hire a troublemaker.
• Direct questions about your age are illegal. Technically, you can object to direct questions, but you might alienate the interviewer. Try changing the direction of the interview.
• Consider carefully whether to file an age-discrimination suit. The legal process is time-consuming and costly, and can shift the focus away from productive job hunting.

SOURCE: Michael McGinn, Executive Transition Group Inc., Cherry Hill.