There are four “tells” that people use to classify someone”s perceived age:
1. How old do you look?
2. How old do you act?
3. How old do your accessories indicate you are?
Five ways an older or more mature woman can be seen as more youthful at work
1. Look mature and professional but not too old
Ditch sensible shoes. I know your feet hurt. I”m sorry. But ugly shoes are ugly and people notice and see you as geriatric. This doesn”t mean you need 5 inch heels, but you should wear a heel, stockings, and show some leg to prove you”re a woman who is still mobile. It makes you appear more feminine and younger, in a good way.
2. Have appropriate hair and makeup that is mature, but not too young
Pay attention to hair and makeup. Don”t overdo the makeup, but you have to wear some or you look like you”ve given up the ghost. Hair should have movement and “swing” and color. See Anne”s photos? The biggest change was her hair and makeup — took 10 years off!
3. Appear younger by keeping fit
Exercise every day. You”ll pump up your endorphins and energy, and be seen to be active. This matters as it shows you have energy and stamina for the job. If you can use the company gym, even better. Be seen to be there. At minimum, you should do some cardio or lift weights for 30 minutes a day. Put it in your diary and make it happen.
4. Should you talk about your health problems at work?
The short answer is, hell no. Don”t talk about your health. Ever. You don”t want to talk about doctor appointments, your mother”s doctor appointments, your dentist appointments, how your foot hurts from these shoes, or anything of the kind. Ever. Old people talk about their failing health and complain. You do not. That sort of talk just reminds them of how old you are and how old they are… no good comes of it.
5. Avoid collagen fillers and other things that actually make you look older
Be confident without being desperate. Too much surgery or filler, clothes that are too young for you, talking about clubbing and partying, these are all things that make you appear older because they emphasize the gap between your actual age and the kids.
Own your age, be graceful, don”t try to be anyone you”re not and you”ll get the promotion and recognition that you want.