How Workers 50+ Can Improve Their Online Image

Key takeaways

• Audit and update your social media, as Carly Roszkowski suggests, to ensure professionalism online.
• Showcase your skills on LinkedIn by sharing achievements and new certifications to attract recruiters.
• Build a personal website to control your narrative and highlight your technological adaptability.

Summary

Improving your online presence is essential for experienced workers over 50 looking to make a positive first impression on hiring managers. Carly Roszkowski shares practical tips on how workers 50+ can improve their online image, starting with a thorough audit of your social media accounts to remove outdated or unprofessional content and updating your privacy settings. Keeping LinkedIn profiles active, sharing recent achievements, and showcasing your skills through new training or certifications demonstrate both professionalism and adaptability — qualities recruiters are eager to see.

Building a personal website and curating your online portfolio not only sets you apart but also proves your comfort with technology in today’s digital job market. These steps help you control the narrative about your expertise and experience, allowing your skills to shine rather than your age. With strategic updates and thoughtful content, you can confidently manage your reputation and open doors to new opportunities.

The key takeaways and summary were created with the assistance of generative AI. An AARP editor reviewed and refined the content for accuracy and clarity.

Full Transcript:

[00:00:00] How you show up online matters just as much as what’s on your résumé. A 2023 Resume Builder survey found that 74% of hiring managers

[00:00:10] look at your social media. So if you’re an experienced worker looking to make a strong first impression, here are four tips to help you stand out online.

[00:00:19] Number one: Audit your social media. If you’re over 50, chances are you’ve had a personal Facebook, Instagram,

[00:00:27] LinkedIn or X account for years. Take some time to scroll through old posts,

[00:00:33] and delete anything that could raise questions, like foul language, complaints about past jobs, or posts and photos that might look unprofessional.

[00:00:43] Then review your privacy settings. Hide personal details like your full birthday, which reveals your age, and instead only show the month and day.

[00:00:53] Finally, add a recent photo. LinkedIn profiles with photos are seven times more likely to be viewed.

[00:00:59] You can do this by going on your LinkedIn profile, clicking your profile image, and then selecting the file you’d like to include.

[00:01:08] If you’re worried about looking older, a black and white photo can soften your look while still appearing professional.

[00:01:15] Number two: Keep your accounts active, especially on LinkedIn. Connect with current and former coworkers, clients and friends to show you have

[00:01:24] a strong professional network online. Then start posting with intent. Employers aren’t just looking for red flags.

[00:01:32] They want to see how you present yourself online. Share articles about your industry, highlight workplace achievements, or comment respectfully

[00:01:40] on topics you care about. This shows recruiters you’re engaged and professional. Aim to post about three times a week during business hours to stay

[00:01:48] active and keep your content fresh. Number three: Share your skills online.

[00:01:54] Learning new tech or tools helps challenge ageist stereotypes and will keep you competitive.

[00:01:59] If you’re employed, ask your manager for training or upskilling opportunities. You can also try free or affordable options like Coursera,

[00:02:08] edX or the AARP Skills Builder for Work. When you finish a course, put it in the Add License or Certification

[00:02:16] section on your profile. Depending on your settings, LinkedIn may even share it with your network, which can show others your initiative and commitment to lifelong learning.

[00:02:26] Number four: Build a personal website. It’s a great way to stand out and help you better manage your online presence.

[00:02:33] Plus it can showcase your comfort with technology. Indeed.com recommends adding a short bio, images and videos,

[00:02:41] samples of your best work, and even testimonials from previous clients. Platforms such as Wix, Squarespace and WordPress are easy to use

[00:02:50] and start at just $4 a month. An online presence is an essential step in your job search.

[00:02:57] With a few simple updates, you can manage your reputation in a way that highlights your skills and expertise rather than your age.

[00:03:05] For more job search tips for older workers, visit aarp.org/work