Job hunting can be challenging at any age, but it comes with unique obstacles for older workers—especially in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, switch careers, or move on from your current position, a standout resume for older workers will help you negate age bias and highlight your hard-earned experience and skills.
Your resume is more than just a document—it’s your chance to show that you’re adaptable, motivated, and ready for new opportunities.
In this article, we’ll share essential resume advice for older workers. From showcasing your strengths to choosing the best format, you’ll find everything you need to make a lasting impression. We’ll also discuss what to avoid, offer examples, and provide specific advice on crafting a resume for those looking for a fresh start.
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The importance of a strong resume for older adults
Age bias is a reality for many job seekers over 50. According to a 2024 American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) survey, 64% of workers over 50 reported having seen or experienced age discrimination in the workplace. In another AARP survey, conducted in 2022, 14% of adults working or looking for a job reported that they were not hired because of their age.
With numbers like these, it’s clear that older workers need every advantage when it comes to job hunting. A standout resume can help challenge every bad assumption, ensure your skills and experience shine through, and increase your chances of landing interviews—and securing the job.
The biggest takeaway: Rather than focusing on when you started your career, focus on what you bring to the table today. By showcasing your most relevant skills, highlighting recent accomplishments, and using a modern resume format, you can prove your expertise is exactly what employers need.
6 resume tips for older workers
Focus on essential elements that can grab an employer’s attention. Here’s a breakdown of how to write a resume for older adults in today’s competitive market.
1. Highlight relevant experience only
The best resumes for older adults don’t shy away from experience—they leverage it. But while you may have a wealth of experience, not all of it needs to be included. It’s best to zero in on the last 10-15 years of your career. Summarize earlier roles, especially if they aren’t directly relevant to the position, and avoid overwhelming your resume with unnecessary details.
This way, your resume will remain concise, and employers can quickly identify your most relevant qualifications.
“I remember helping one candidate who had a 4-page resume full of every role they’d held since the 1980s,” says Arthur Favier, founder and CEO of Oppizi, who has reviewed hundreds of resumes—many of them from older candidates trying to re-enter the workforce or pivot careers. “By narrowing it down and emphasizing their most recent successes, they made their application far stronger and more relevant.”
2. Choose the right format
When it comes to the best resume formats for older workers, there are three main formats to consider: chronological, functional, and hybrid. Each has its strengths and drawbacks, and choosing the right one depends on your specific situation.
- Chronological format: This is the most common resume style, where work history is listed in reverse order, starting with your most recent role. It’s ideal for those with a steady career progression, as it highlights consistent work experience. However, for older workers with significant experience or gaps in employment, this format can sometimes emphasize your age or long periods out of the workforce, which may lead to bias.
- Functional format: This focuses on skills rather than a timeline of jobs, making it useful for older workers looking to downplay gaps in employment or career changes. It allows you to highlight key skills such as leadership, communication, or technical expertise without drawing attention to dates. However, some employers are skeptical of functional resumes because they hide employment history details, so use this format strategically.
- Hybrid format: The hybrid format blends the best of both worlds by allowing you to highlight key skills while also listing relevant job experience. This format is often the best choice for older workers because it emphasizes your qualifications and skills without making employment dates the focal point. It’s a flexible option that showcases your strengths while addressing potential gaps in your career.
3. Showcase transferable skills
Transferable skills, such as leadership, communication, and technology proficiency, are highly valued in today’s job market. If you’re looking to pivot into new industries or roles, highlighting these skills can help bridge the gap between your previous roles and new opportunities. Including specific examples of how you’ve used these skills in past roles will make your resume stand out.
4. Keep it modern
A modern resume is more likely to catch the eye of recruiters. Use contemporary fonts such as Arial, Cambria, and Times New Roman, and clean formatting to ensure your resume doesn’t look outdated. Including a LinkedIn URL is one of the most important resume hints for older workers—many recruiters use LinkedIn to verify your experience, so make sure your profile is up to date. Optimize your profile by reflecting the same key skills and experiences on your resume.
5. Tailor your resume to each new job opportunity
We know it feels like a lot, but a one-size-fits-all resume doesn’t cut it anymore. Tailoring your resume to each job posting by matching your skills and experience with the specific requirements listed in the job description can make a big difference.
“I’ve had people tell me they sent out dozens of applications with no response,” Favier says. “When I look at their resume, it’s clear why—none of them are tailored to the job description.”
Tailoring your resume shows you’ve taken the time to align your qualifications with the company’s needs.
6. Address gaps in employment history strategically
Gaps in employment history are sometimes a concern for older workers, but there are strategies to address them effectively. Consider using the functional resume format for older workers that we mentioned earlier to highlight your skills rather than a chronological timeline.
Include volunteer work, courses, or certifications to show that you’ve stayed engaged and active, even during periods when you weren’t formally employed. “I’ve seen candidates turn what looked like problematic employment histories into compelling stories of growth and resilience just by reframing those experiences,” Favier says.
What not to do when crafting your resume
While it’s important to know what to include in your resume, it’s equally important to avoid common pitfalls that can detract from your application.
Falling for age-related traps
Including graduation dates or unnecessarily long work histories can inadvertently reveal your age. “While you can’t control how someone perceives you, you can avoid highlighting it,” Favier says. “Just list your degree without the year or focus more on your skills and contributions rather than timelines.”
Another critical point to avoid is outdated language. “Using terms that were common 20 years ago might unintentionally make you seem out of touch,” Favier says. “Instead, use contemporary language and formats to present a more modern image.”
Overemphasizing longevity
While it may be tempting to list the longevity of your past roles, focusing too much on how long you stayed at one job can overshadow your most recent achievements. Employers care more about what you can bring to their company now than what you did 20 or 30 years ago.
Listing outdated skills
Technology is a key area where many older workers need to ensure they’re up to date. Including outdated software or processes could make it seem like you’re out of touch with modern trends. Show recruiters how you’re ready for today’s workforce. “It’s not enough to say you’re tech-savvy—show it through concrete experiences,” Favier says. “Create a dedicated section for technical skills and be as concrete as possible. If you’ve used CRM systems like Salesforce or managed remote teams using collaboration tools like Slack or Trello, mention that.”
Resume examples for older workers
Crafting a resume that stands out can be a challenge, especially for older workers who may have decades of experience to condense into a concise, impactful document. To make this process easier, let’s look at some sample resumes for older workers that demonstrate best practices for presenting your skills and experience.
Example #1: Generic resumes for older workers
Here's a sample resume for older workers that uses a hybrid format to highlight skills and experience without emphasizing dates too much.
John Doe
[LinkedIn URL]
[johndoe@email.com]
Professional Summary
A senior marketing professional with over 20 years of experience driving brand growth and revenue through innovative campaigns and leadership in digital transformation. Proven ability to adapt to changing technologies and lead teams to success. Seeking a role in marketing leadership that leverages my expertise in digital marketing and team management.
Key Skills
- Digital Marketing Strategy
- Team Leadership
- CRM Management (Salesforce)
- Project Management
- Cross-functional Collaboration
Experience
Marketing Director – XYZ Corporation, New York, NY
(2020 – Present)
- Led a team of 15 marketers in executing multi-channel campaigns, increasing brand awareness by 30%.
- Spearheaded digital transformation efforts, integrating marketing automation tools to boost efficiency.
- Collaborated with product development teams to align marketing strategies with product launches, resulting in a 20% increase in sales.
Marketing Manager – New Marketing Inc., New York, NY
(2013 – 2020)
- Managed all marketing efforts for a $50 million division of the company.
- Increased online traffic by 50% through targeted digital campaigns and SEO initiatives.
- Developed and executed annual marketing plans, resulting in 15% revenue growth year-over-year.
Senior Marketing Specialist – DEF Media, New York, NY
(2005 – 2013)
- Developed and implemented digital marketing strategies that boosted client engagement by 25%.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create and execute marketing campaigns for clients in the tech and healthcare industries.
- Conducted market research and data analysis to optimize campaign performance and increase return on investment (ROI) by 10%.
- Mentored junior marketing professionals, leading to a 20% improvement in team productivity and skills development.
Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – New York University, Stern School of Business. Concentration in Marketing and Strategic Management.
Why this example works:
This example effectively highlights relevant experiences from the past 20 years without overwhelming the reader with too many details. The skills section emphasizes key proficiencies and the professional summary is modern and forward-thinking. Omitting the graduation year can also help mitigate any potential age bias if needed.
Example #2: Retiree resume
Craft a resume that shows how your experience can still be relevant. Let’s look at a resume for a retiree example for someone who took a break but is now seeking a part-time or consultant role.
Jane Smith
[LinkedIn URL]
[janesmith@email.com]
Professional Summary
Experienced financial advisor with over 30 years of expertise in wealth management, retirement planning, and tax-efficient investing. After a brief retirement, seeking a consultant role to continue offering clients top-tier financial advice while leveraging extensive industry knowledge.
Key Skills
- Wealth Management
- Retirement Planning
- Client Relationship Management
- Risk Analysis
- Financial Software (QuickBooks, Excel)
Experience
Wealth Management Consultant – ABC Financial Group, Boston, MA
(2012 – 2020)
- Provided high-net-worth clients with comprehensive retirement planning strategies.
- Managed investment portfolios totaling over $100 million.
- Conducted risk assessments and adjusted portfolios to meet changing market conditions.
Financial Advisor – XYZ Investment Services, Boston, MA
(2004 – 2012)
- Created personalized financial plans for individuals and small businesses.
- Delivered quarterly performance reviews to clients, maintaining a 90% client retention rate.
- Advised clients on tax-efficient investment strategies to maximize returns.
Operations Manager — DEF Solutions, Boston, MA
(2000 – 2004)
- Oversaw daily operations of the department, improving productivity by 20% through process optimization.
- Implemented new inventory management systems, reducing costs by 15%.
- Trained and supervised a team of 15 staff members, enhancing team performance and customer satisfaction.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Finance – Boston University, MA.
Certifications and Courses
- Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification – Project Management Institute (PMI), 2020
- Data Analytics Specialization – Coursera, 2021
- Leadership and Emotional Intelligence – LinkedIn Learning, 2022
Why this example works:
This retiree's resume focuses on relevant skills and experiences that demonstrate continued professional value. It highlights the extensive background in financial advising, emphasizing her expertise rather than the gap in employment. By showcasing her recent certifications and ongoing professional development, the resume reinforces her commitment to staying current in the industry.
Example #3: Sample resume for changing careers
Older workers looking to switch industries should focus on showcasing transferable skills. Here’s a sample resume for older workers transitioning into a new field.
Michael Johnson
[LinkedIn URL]
[michaeljohnson@email.com]
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented finance professional with over 25 years of experience in investment management and financial planning, seeking to transition into corporate finance. Proven ability to analyze financial data and develop strategic initiatives that drive profitability. Eager to leverage extensive analytical skills and industry knowledge in a new role focused on financial operations and decision-making.
Key Skills
- Financial Analysis
- Investment Management
- Budgeting and Forecasting
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Client Relationship Management
- Financial Software (Bloomberg, QuickBooks)
Experience
Investment Manager – GHI Capital Partners, New York, NY
(2010 – Present)
- Managed investment portfolios valued at over $500 million, ensuring alignment with market trends and client objectives.
- Conducted comprehensive financial analysis and market research to inform investment strategies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance portfolio performance and client satisfaction.
Senior Financial Consultant – JKL Financial Advisors, New York, NY
(2005 – 2010)
- Developed financial plans for high-net-worth clients, focusing on retirement and wealth preservation strategies.
- Analyzed clients’ financial situations and recommended tailored investment solutions, resulting in a 90% client retention rate.
- Created and delivered financial education workshops for clients, increasing their investment knowledge and engagement.
Financial Operations Coordinator – ABC Retail Group, New York, NY
(2000 – 2005)
- Streamlined financial processes and procedures, improving efficiency and accuracy in budgeting and reporting.
- Assisted in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts, providing detailed financial analysis to support executive decision-making.
- Collaborated with department heads to manage financial performance and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Certifications and Courses
- Financial Planning Certification – Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, 2023
- Advanced Financial Modeling – Wall Street Prep, 2022
- Corporate Finance Essentials – Coursera, 2021
Why this example works:
This resume effectively highlights Michael Johnson's diverse background in finance while positioning him for a career change into corporate finance. It emphasizes transferable skills like financial analysis and budgeting, showcasing his ability to adapt to new challenges. The relevant education and targeted certifications demonstrate his commitment to the transition, while the professional summary clearly outlines his intentions.
Free resume template for older worker
Below is a simple and free resume template for older workers that can be customized to suit individual backgrounds and career objectives.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[LinkedIn URL]
Professional Summary
[Write a brief summary highlighting your career objectives, relevant experience, and key skills that align with the position you are applying for. Keep it concise and focused.]
Key Skills
- [Skill 1]
- [Skill 2]
- [Skill 3]
- [Skill 4]
- [Skill 5]
Experience
[Job Title] – [Company Name], [City, State]
[Month/Year] – [Month/Year]
- [Responsibility/achievement 1]
- [Responsibility/achievement 2]
- [Responsibility/achievement 3]
[Job Title] – [Company Name], [City, State]
[Month/Year] – [Month/Year]
- [Responsibility/achievement 1]
- [Responsibility/achievement 2]
- [Responsibility/achievement 3]
Education
[Degree] in [Field of Study] – [University Name], [City, State]
Certifications and Courses
- [Certification or course 1] – [Year]
- [Certification or course 2] – [Year]
- [Certification or course 3] – [Year]
Additional Information
[Optional: Include any volunteer work, professional associations, or interests relevant to your career transition.]
Template for older workers' resume
Creating a standout resume is essential for older workers seeking to highlight their extensive experience and skills. Below is a simple and effective resume template that can be customized to suit individual backgrounds and career objectives.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[LinkedIn URL]
Professional Summary
[Write a brief summary highlighting your career objectives, relevant experience, and key skills that align with the position you are applying for. Keep it concise and focused.]
Key Skills
- [Skill 1]
- [Skill 2]
- [Skill 3]
- [Skill 4]
- [Skill 5]
Experience
[Job Title] – [Company Name], [City, State]
[Month/Year] – [Month/Year]
- [Responsibility/achievement 1]
- [Responsibility/achievement 2]
- [Responsibility/achievement 3]
[Job Title] – [Company Name], [City, State]
[Month/Year] – [Month/Year]
- [Responsibility/achievement 1]
- [Responsibility/achievement 2]
- [Responsibility/achievement 3]
Education
[Degree] in [Field of Study] – [University Name], [City, State]
[Month/Year]
Certifications and Courses
- [Certification or course 1] – [Year]
- [Certification or course 2] – [Year]
- [Certification or course 3] – [Year]
Additional Information
[Optional: Include any volunteer work, professional associations, or interests relevant to your career transition.]
Instructions for use:
- Replace the placeholder text with your own information.
- Tailor the professional summary and key skills to align with the job description of the position you are applying for.
- Focus on achievements and responsibilities that demonstrate your qualifications for the desired role, particularly in your most recent positions.
- Keep the design clean and easy to read, using bullet points for clarity.
Bottom line
Creating a standout resume is essential for older workers looking to make their mark in today's competitive job market. You want to highlight your unique experiences and skills while addressing common concerns, such as employment gaps or transitioning to new fields. Emphasizing transferable skills and recent accomplishments helps ensure that your resume resonates with potential employers and demonstrates a strong fit for the desired position.
Moreover, leveraging modern formats and design elements not only keeps resumes visually appealing but also signals adaptability—a quality highly valued in today’s workforce. With the right strategies in place, it’s entirely possible to successfully navigate the job search process and secure fulfilling positions that align with one's skills and aspirations.