Are you an older job-seeker who is currently looking for work? If so, you have likely faced your share of roadblocks and unfortunate stereotypes based upon your age alone.

As a mature job-seeker, you already know this cardinal rule: If you want the job, you have to ace the interview.

What are the real reasons that make employers find a candidate attractive? Are applicants appealing because of the skills they bring to the position? Are they especially desirable as a result of the companies where they've worked, their educational background or the status of their job title?

Mature job-seekers face special challenges. It is common knowledge that younger employers are likely to hold several negative stereotypes relating to age. Perhaps the most prevalent of these is that you lack the necessary technical skills for the job. There is one surefire way to counteract this presumption.

Think summer jobs are just for kids? Well ... think again! Now is just the right time and you are at just the right age to land an adventure-filled position that will prove both fun and rewarding. The seasonal job market has opened up to applicants of all ages.

This is the time of year for making New Year's resolutions. And if you are a savvy job-seeker, it's also time to take full advantage of the surge in hiring that takes place in January and February.