Dear J.T. & Dale: My situation is a little bit unusual. I am a 59-year-old worker who has taken retirement, but is definitely not ready to retire. I really would like to stay with institutional finance, where I have 30 years experience, instead of going with an hourly retail job like so many of my contemporaries have done. Do I tell prospective employers that I plan to work for the next 10 to 12 years in the cover letter, wait for the interview, or just let that dog sleep? – James Dale: First, I wouldn’t mention that you’ve taken retirement. People hear that and assume you’re older than you are, and might even assume you’re used up. Further, perhaps without being conscious of it, some managers will resent your second source of income and feel it’s too easy for you to walk away. If nothing else, they’ll try to underpay you.

J.T.: If you are to continue in institutional finance, I suggest you take some time to come up with a professional identity you can market. Given your years of experience, many employers will want to see that you’ve become a subject-matter expert in some area of your field. Review your strengths and interests in the world of institutional finance, and then choose an area where you can provide significant value. That way, you’ll be able to target prospective employers and clearly convey your value.

Dale: You want people to see more than your experience, you want them to see your expertise. Talk about how many years you want to work to enumerating all you want to accomplish with and for a new employer.