Networking as an Older Executive on LinkedIn

Networking as an Older Executive on LinkedIn Networking as an older executive may sound scary.But don't throw in the towel just yet!In fact, the data may give all executives a reason to put their minds at ease.In August 2019, the unemployment rate for people over age 45 was at 2.6% to 2.8%. However, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics also shows that the unemployment rate was higher in all other age demographics.At the same time,executives cannot just “get a job”as dynamics are constantly changing across a wide range of industries.If You Are an Executive Looking for WorkTaking any job that comes along is not an option.Networking can also be tougher becausethere is a whole new generation of workers starting out with their business ideas and ways of communicating.Theseare often the people networking with you on LinkedIn.Studies have shown that certain industries are known for age discrimination practices. Now, you have to compete with the younger generation for an executive position while networking.Before you get concernedâ€" or worse, feel humiliatedâ€" here is what you can do as an older executive networking on LinkedIn.1. Start Being Yourself and Owning ItSome on LinkedIn have taken to the belief that the way to compete with a younger audience is to become one of them.They let go of everything they had learned in the past. They adopt the belief that wisdom holds you back. They start trying to spin what they know in a way that younger companies may understand.This is just wrong!Everything you learn in your career is worth something.Whether it has to do with your perspectives, wisdom, or experience, everything you have learned can make you that open-minded, global leader who thinks of everyone.But you have to own it.Talk about your experiences on LinkedIn. Talk about the times that you kept an open mind. Refer to instances when youinfluenced changeand tackled a worthy cause. You cannot be grumpy about your age. You cannot be angry that others younger than you are in positions of leadership while network ing.That is not the inclusive leader who grew into an executive.You made it so far in your career by adapting to changes and owning your success each time. Why stop now?2. Dig Into Your Linkedin ConnectionsHave you ever noticed in sports how it seems to be a family affair?One day, your favorite player is starting out a career. Then, 25 years later, that player’s son joins the same team as a rookie.Do you think that is an accident or dumb luck?No, it is a combination of hard work and talent passed down through the family.And yes, it helps when it comes time to enter the league. The senior professional has connections. It is the business of “climbing the career ladder with one hand extended to help.”How does this apply to networking on LinkedIn?Reach out to find out what the kids of your current connections are doing. Find out where they are working. See if there are opportunities available for you to become an executive.The fact is your network grown throughout your career will be larger.Your friend’s son or daughter can benefit from this, especially if the son or daughter is an executive.You’ve been around longer. You know more people. Use that to your advantage.Do not be an ageist yourself and think that they are too young to help you.Work toward the future together.3. Get an Updated Linkedin ProfileGet rid of the LinkedIn profile that looks like an executive resume from 2000.Unlike years ago when you started, people do not read much off of screens.Make sure that your LinkedIn headline, summary, and recommendations all show that you understand the expectations of the many companies and recruiters using LinkedIn.A great headline helps you brand yourself as an executive. Great summaries can show that you are conversational in social media. Recommendations will show others that you have powerful credibility.Alsoget the LinkedIn app on your phone.This will help at times when you meet people face to face. Use the app for introductions instead of relying on paper business cards, which might seem old-fashioned in some cases.Overall, by making these minor but important changes, you are showing the entire group of people networking on LinkedIn,“Age is only a number.”Closing ThoughtsHere at Find My Profession, we would love to help you land the perfect executive career.We offer career coachingservices focused on C-level and executive positions.Simply tell us about your previous experience and we will do the research on where your skills could be best applied.Get in touch today.Let us do the heavy lifting as you navigate your executive career change.