How real is age bias in the oil and gas industry, and what can you do to overcome it?

Reading blogs and articles on the Internet regarding age bias in the hiring process can be a real downer. There are industries where age bias is fairly proven and common.

As it relates to the oil and gas industry, this does not have to be the case.  Our industry is aging, and yet, Baby Boomers and members of the great generation still desire to work and are capable of producing great product.  It does ease the transition, however, if they can articulate their abilities in a way that overcomes the concerns of the hiring manager.

Here are a couple of tips that come from personal experience:

1.  You’re as young as you feel

If you feel that you had been overlooked in the past, that you should be better off now than you are, or if you simply feel that you have earned the respect, then please lose that feeling.  Searching for and interviewing for a position is always a new undertaking.  The person interviewing you wants to understand what you can do for the hiring company now.  So, go in with a positive, clear mind, and don’t allow an attitude show that says someone owes you something.  Show that you are energetic and enthusiastic about adding value to their company.

2.  Forget the good old days

Although you may think it’s a humorous comment, do not mention what you did “back in the good old days.”  Avoiding anything that dates you is good advice.

3.  Keep up with appearances

On that same note, be sure that you keep an up-to-date look about yourself.  No, that does not mean ear piercings or tattoos, but if you are not sure about that old suit and tie, then it is probably a good time to buy a new one.  A fresh look can only help your presentation.

4.  Technology is king

It is no longer an option; it is compulsory that you know the latest technology.  If you use version 1.2 and are only considering taking a course to learn version 5.0, then it is really time to update your technological skills.

The truth is that almost every able professional with the right software skills can find employment.  It pains us when we have to say “no” to super professionals who simply do not possess the software skills the client needs.  It is never too late to add skill sets.

5.  Enter the new network

The Internet has changed everything about how people find and connect with each other.  There is no age limitation.  Saying that you are “too old for Linked In” is not the right answer.  Companies like ours are now routinely connecting with skilled professionals on sites such as Linked In.  Beware of the pitfalls!  Unprofessional or risky postings on social networking sites like Facebook could backfire.  Make sure that you control your professional image.

On the other hand, avoiding networking sites because you are “suspicious about the whole thing” does not help.  There are ways to engage safely as a whole.  Check around on the Internet.  There is plenty of advice on how to develop a professional presence on the Web.  Don’t wait to engage modern thinking and modern tools.  It will pay off fairly quickly.

Visit PennEnergyJobs.com today to upload your resume and search hundreds of jobs worldwide with some of the best companies in the oil and gas, power, and energy sectors.