1. Lead With a Value-Rich Profile
Replace generic statements with a tailored summary that positions you for the exact roles you are targeting. Focus on:
- Your role target (e.g. Operations Manager, Program Lead).
- Two signature achievements expressed with metrics.
- Proof of adaptability (digital projects, culture change).
- A nod to leadership style or stakeholder partnerships.
This primes the reader to interpret your experience as current and valuable.
2. Trim and Reframe Your Career History
Keep the focus on the last decade unless earlier achievements are vital to the story.
- Remove early roles or summarise them under an “Earlier Career” heading with one sentence per role.
- Use contemporary language: “collaborated in agile squads” instead of “worked with the IT team”.
- Surface cross-industry skills — stakeholder engagement, compliance, operational excellence — that resonate with diverse employers.
Unsure what to keep? Compare your history with the requirements in theAustralian resume checklistfor guidance.
3. Add Proof That Counters Age Bias
Age bias often stems from assumptions that experienced workers resist change. Break that narrative with evidence:
- Swap dated software references for current cloud-based platforms.
- Limit experience to the last 10–15 years unless earlier achievements are critical.
- Showcase recent learning, micro-credentials, or mentoring roles.
- Highlight change leadership and digital transformation projects.
If you have a gap, explain how you stayed connected — freelancing, community leadership, or advisory work all count.
4. Choose Storytelling Angles That Land
Each bullet point should underline one of these credibility pillars:
Impact
Quantify how you improved revenue, safety, compliance, or customer experience, even in legacy environments.
Adaptability
Demonstrate how you adopt new technology, processes, or ways of working to deliver better outcomes.
Mentorship
Show how you build capability within teams through coaching, onboarding, or succession planning.
Rotate between pillars so hiring managers see a balanced portfolio of experience, not repetition.
5. Align Your Toolkit
Once the resume is refreshed, extend the messaging across your job search assets:
- Update your LinkedIn profile with the same headline and keywords.
- Draft an authentic post-interview follow-upthat reiterates your energy and readiness.
- Prepare a short, modern cover letter using our simple framework.
Consistency shows you are intentional about the next phase of your career and ready to contribute from day one.
