Even though experience should count when you're job searching, it's not necessarily an asset these days.
The older you are, the longer it can take to find a job. You can be considered "old" in your forties and fifties, and sometimes even younger.
What you can do when you're considered an old, and possibly washed up, job seeker?
You can strategically write your resume and cover letter, but you can't change the basic facts - your actual age and your employment history are etched in stone. However, there are ways you can work on your appearance when you are job searching. And that can make a big difference when you're interviewing.
In the interest of full disclosure, I don't color my hair and I probably won't start. I've been a "real" blonde for too long to change now and I don't mind the gray that is starting to creep in.
That said, I'm probably in the minority though and for those who would like their hair to enhance their youthful appearance, About.com's Guide to Beauty, Julyne Derrick, has excellent tips for coloring gray hair.
About.com's Guide to Human Resources, Susan Heathfield, shares her advice on how to combat age discrimination and maintain your relevance, regardless of your age.
When you're not sure what to wear, Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide to Fashion, has excellent advice on Fashion Over 50 and Fashion Over 40 for women. About.com's Men's Fashion site has Fashion Advice for Men Over 40.
Here's more on what job hunters do to combat age discrimination, including ways to focus your job search, age proof your resume, and target your cover letters. These job search tips for older workers will help you maximize your chance of finding a new job.
On a related note, if you have you been discriminated against because of your age, we'd be interested in hearing your story your story. Here's how to share your age discrimination story.
Related: Resume Tips for Older Job Seekers | Cover Letter Tips for Older Job Seekers | Should You Look Younger for Work?