A BOLD Move Has No Age Limit

Words by Veronica Da Costa, Recruitment Manager from Park Personnel

If you’re a woman early in your career, a new manager, a founder, or someone who’s ever waited for permission or the “right time”, this one’s for you.

When I started my Recruitment career, a lot of things worried me, but nothing quite as much as my age. Walking into meetings, advising experienced professionals, or speaking to senior leaders, I’d have that little voice in my head asking, “Will they take me seriously?”.

I can smile about it now, but back then it felt VERY real. It still pops up occasionally (usually right before something big and important). Imposter syndrome has great timing like that…😉

Who’s ever felt “too young” or “too old” or “too inexperienced” to put their hand up for a promotion, take ownership of a major client, launch their own business, or confidently talk about their achievements? Exactly. We've all been there.

Women feel it more…

Studies show that around 70% of people experience imposter syndrome, with women feeling it more intensely, particularly early in their careers or when stepping into leadership.

Women also typically only apply to jobs if they meet 90–100% of the criteria, compared to men at around 60%, which can hold talented professionals back from seizing opportunities.

There’s a flavour of it that’s especially common among young women: Feeling like credibility is earned with age, not expertise.

In recruitment, I’ve learned that confidence (NOT capability) is often the real barrier.

I see this play out constantly: talented young women who are more skilled than they realise, more qualified than they give themselves credit for, and more capable than they feel.

Brilliant professionals who convince themselves they need just one more qualification to be taken seriously, or young managers who can lead with confidence but feel like they’re ‘too young’ to be managing a team. 

At Park, 42% of the candidates we placed into leadership roles last year were under 35, and 27% were over 45 – proof that employers value capability at every age.

And increasingly, I see employers looking for fresh thinking, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and client service excellence – all traits younger professionals naturally bring.

But it’s not just the “too young” feeling…

Many professionals later in their careers wonder if they’re “too old” to try something new, whether it’s changing industries, stepping into leadership, or launching a business.

Some worry they won’t be wanted in the workplace, that skills or perspectives they’ve honed over decades won’t matter, or that they’ve missed their window.

Here’s the truth: Capability, curiosity, and the willingness to learn are what really matter!

Experience is a SUPERPOWER – it brings perspective, judgement, and credibility.

Just like younger colleagues, more seasoned professionals bring value that can’t be measured in age. Employers care far less about how old you are and far more about whether you can deliver results, build relationships, and adapt to change.

Speaking to candidates, clients, and connections across Jersey’s various sectors taught me something important: People care far less about your age than they do about your ability to understand them and deliver results.

During my own journey and my ongoing battle with those “I’m too young” thoughts, I’ve noticed something interesting: the more senior the person sitting across from me, the less they care about my age. They care about whether I can help them, guide them, and genuinely support their next step. 

What matters to them (and what others will expect from you):

• Do you know your stuff?

• Do you show up consistently?

• Do you communicate clearly and confidently?

• Do you deliver results?

Credibility is built through your actions, not your birth year.

The market is changing… Fast! Jersey is full of experienced and outstanding professionals (yes!)  but it’s also full of women who are:

• Building businesses

• Leading teams

• Managing client relationships

• Studying for qualifications

• Balancing careers and families

• And still thinking they’re not “ready” yet!

But here’s the truth: Most of the time, you’re more ready than you think. 

Younger leaders bring adaptability, a fresh perspective, and a modern approach to client service (all things industries desperately need as expectations shift). 

Experienced leaders bring perspective, judgement, and credibility. 

Both are equally valuable.

My bold move?

I started focusing on what I did bring to the table: Energy. Curiosity. Market knowledge. A coaching mindset. Empathy. Authenticity. Fresh perspective. And yes, a bit of boldness… All the things that actually build trust.
And once I owned those things, the age thing lost its power. I realised the people I thought were judging me weren’t questioning my age… I was.

You’re not too young. You’re not underqualified. You’re not inexperienced. You’re not too old. You’re not irrelevant.

You ARE learning, growing, and showing up, and that already puts you ahead.

Being bold isn’t about being fearless. It’s about acting despite the doubt, trusting your knowledge, and remembering that age doesn’t define how far you can go.
I’ve learned that the small steps I took, even when I wasn’t sure, are what built my confidence and shaped my journey.

So put your hand up.
Take the lead.
Make the move.
Start the thing.
Talk about your wins.

Your age isn't a barrier; it’s part of your story. Start before you feel ready, your future self will thank you!

And if you ever want to chat through your next career move or simply connect with someone who genuinely gets it, let’s grab a coffee!