Later life career path changes are not uncommon. Unless you really love your job, you can’t be expected to do it forever, and you may feel unfulfilled doing something you don’t enjoy. Of course, switching jobs later on is daunting.
So, from considering other industries to financing a job change, here are some handy suggestions to help you find something you would love to do.
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Relevant Training and Education
There are some things we can do well and are really good at. But what about new skills and keeping up with industry changes? For almost all careers, there will be certain expectations that an employer will be keen to see on your CV. Training and education is, therefore, a necessity.
Education, such as an MBA specialization, can be hard while working full time also. But when you are willing to put in the extra effort, it shows an employer how committed you really are.
Later Life Career Path Changes Between Industries
It isn’t unreasonable to want to change your career path. In fact, a survey by Oxbridge Learning found that 90% of people over 50 want to change careers. But what does this really mean? Maybe you want a promotion, a job in the same sector, or a role in an exciting industry unrelated to what you do now.
For instance, maybe a career in IT means you are becoming excited at the emergence of AI. Your old role will help, but there will be specific challenges you will face.
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Finding the Right Mindset
A positive mindset is vital for making a career change no matter your life stage. Yet it is more valuable when getting older. Thinking you are too old, unqualified, or not skilled enough won’t get you anywhere. Employers can not discriminate based on age. Instead, you must show them that you are the right person for the job.
But how? It’s all about attitude. A positive attitude and showing genuine enthusiasm for a role will help you achieve the transition you really want.
Put Yourself Out There
Recruitment sites such as Indeed are excellent for matching your skills and experience with potential roles and employers. However, they are used by millions of people. You can use these sites to your advantage. But it isn’t really enough anymore to rely solely on them.
You need to put yourself out there a bit more than you might be used to. Setting up profiles on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook can connect you to the groups and employers you need.
Assess Your Situation Beforehand
We often think that people want to switch careers for more money. This just isn’t the case. Money is essential, no one can deny that. But being happy and fulfilled doing something you enjoy is much more crucial. Taking self-assessment is vital for switching, so consider these:
- Note the reasons why you want to change careers in the first place.
- Specify what isn’t working for you because it may be possible to change.
- Highlight what you like about your current role and what you would like in a new one.
- List your core values that can benefit a new role and those around you.
- Identify any skill gaps you need to fill before embarking on a new career.
- Ask for feedback from people who know you well about what you can offer.
- Create a detailed plan and execute it as best you can while job searching.
It also helps to think about what your new career must provide for you. Maybe you want to travel more, increased or lowered responsibilities or something you genuinely find enjoyable. These will make it increasingly likely that you will be satisfied with the new career you land in.
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Connect with Other People
It can be hard to accept and even begin, but networking is critical to finding something you love. This comes naturally to some people, and others can find it hard. As an introvert, the last thing you want is to be rubbing shoulders with strangers at an expo.
However, there are alternatives. For instance, online groups are a great place to start. You can talk to people and be yourself, getting to know them over time. You can supplement this with online portfolios of your work.
Don’t Use Blanket CVs and Letters
CVs and letters are one of the most common ways to gain employment. They let an employer know who you are and what you can do. They don’t tell the whole story, but they do provide some insight and are typically requested for almost all jobs.
Of course, writing these is tedious and boring. But the very worst thing you can do is send out blanket CVs and letters with generic wording. You must tailor each CV and letter to the job you want rather than sending the same.
Finance Later Life Career Path Changes
Wanting to change careers carries some risk, and there will be an adjustment period. One of the main complaints with older people is the financial challenge of switching jobs. In the UK, for example, there are over 3.5 million people between 50 and 64 with little to no savings.
Thinking you cannot afford a change will hold you back. You will need one month’s salary to adjust to your new job while waiting for the first pay packet. There may also be costs, such as training.
Practice Interview Skills for Each Job
Some say the hardest part is actually getting an interview. When you are invited for an interview, most of the work is done. An employer has looked at your CV out of hundreds and seen something they like. That is a significant point in your favor. Now all you have to do is impress the interviewee.
But of course, this is also hard. Some people get nervous. But with practice, you will get better. Think of questions you may be asked and the best answers for them.
Summary
Training and education may be necessary for career path changes later in life. Staying positive will help you assess the situation and figure out what you need to do. Practicing for the interview will help alleviate fears and prepare you for most questions and issues that may come up.
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