In today’s workplace, ageism is more than just an annoyance—it can cause you to second-guess your own skills and experience. Whether it’s subtle remarks or outright bias, the challenges of ageism can leave professionals feeling uncertain about their place in the job market.

But what if the key to breaking the cycle of doubt isn’t about hiding your experience, but reframing it in a way that showcases your value?

Here are five steps to help you flip the narrative and embrace your expertise in a way that defies ageist stereotypes:

1. Focus on Skills, Not Just Tenure

It’s easy to fall into the trap of emphasising how long you’ve been in the workforce, but the real value lies in what you’ve accomplished. Instead of saying you have 25 years of experience as a project manager, shine a light on your wins. Did you lead a major initiative that saved your company time and money? Did you drive innovation in your field? Direct the conversation toward your expertise and tangible results. This approach shifts the focus from how long you’ve been working to the value you bring to a potential employer.

2. Prioritise Recent Experience

While your entire career is important, highlighting your most recent and relevant roles can help frame you as an asset with up-to-date skills. Focus on your achievements and roles from the past 10 to 15 years, as these will showcase your current abilities and adaptability in today’s fast-changing employment landscape. Employers want to know you’re equipped to meet today’s demands, and showing that you’ve stayed engaged with recent challenges will put you ahead.

3. Streamline Dates and Details

In many cases, details like the year you graduated or your early career roles may not be necessary to include on your CV or LinkedIn profile. These dates can unintentionally reveal your age and create bias before you’ve even had the chance to interview. If they’re not directly related to your current job search, feel free to skip them. Instead, keep your profile focused on the most relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications that speak to the role you’re pursuing.

4. Refresh Your Professional Image

Your LinkedIn profile photo is one of the first things potential employers or recruiters will see, and like it or not, appearances can influence first impressions. A modern, professional headshot that reflects your personal style and energy can help ensure that your image aligns with how you want to be perceived in the workplace. A fresh photo can make a big difference in how approachable and engaged you appear, so take the time to update this important part of your personal brand.

5. Stay Current with Industry Language

Using outdated terminology can inadvertently signal to employers that your skills may not be up to date. Staying on top of the latest trends, vocabulary, and buzzwords within your industry shows that you’re continuously learning and evolving. Incorporating these terms into your résumé and conversations demonstrates that you’re adaptable and in sync with modern workplace expectations.

Ageism doesn’t have to derail your career. By taking control of how you present your experience, you can redefine your personal brand and show that your years of expertise are an asset, not a limitation. It’s not about downplaying your career history, but about showcasing it in a way that resonates with today’s recruiters and hiring managers.

Remember, age isn’t something to be hidden—it’s a resource filled with knowledge, wisdom, and unmatched experience. By reframing your story and focusing on what truly matters, you can continue to thrive in your career with confidence.