In an effort to further their careers, modern employees have a tendency to company-hop more frequently than decades ago. As a result, older applicants often find themselves competing with a younger group for their next position. There are some advantages and disadvantages for being an older job applicant. You must be careful to play up your strengths and play down your weaknesses in order to impress new employers.

Emphasize Your Experience
If you are seeking employment and are older than the average applicant, your most valuable asset is your experience. Experience is more than just knowing what to expect and how to react. Experience saves money. Be certain to underscore your knowledge base during your interview and remind your interviewer of the money that can be saved in not needing to train a new employee. Point out your first-hand insight into issues and concerns they may already be experiencing---and let them know the effective ways you've used to handle these same issues in the past. If you are hired, your valuable years of experience become a benefit to that company.

Show Respect for Younger Supervisors
If you are interviewed by the person who will become your supervisor and that person is significantly younger than yourself, you may run into ego problems. After all, we are taught to respect our elders our whole life---and your boss may have reservations about giving orders to someone who reminds him of his father. In order to break down this barrier, you must use the interview as an opportunity to ease those reservations and make your interviewer comfortable with your position. Be friendly and show that you are malleable and open to suggestions and instruction. Project an element of respect for your supervisor that his position deserves, regardless of his age.

Stay on the Cutting Edge
Finally, one reservation employers may have about hiring older applicants is the fear that experienced workers are set in their ways and these ways may be outdated or inefficient. In order to disprove this myth, come to the interview prepared to discuss the latest technology used in your field of expertise. Brush up on computer skills involving software that is the current standard for the job you are applying for. Study new trends and assure the interviewer---citing examples if possible---that you can adapt to new situations easily and offer fresh ideas and opinions to keep up with the most current styles.