Changing careers is not easy in general. When we add the age equation to the mix, it becomes even more daunting. You have the power to change and grow at any stage of your life. There is no age for becoming an entrepreneur, transitioning to a different industry, or moving to higher positions.
Opportunities for growth and change are always within reach, regardless of your age. Your only limitation is your mindset and your own prison in your head. So, let’s break free from your hamster wheel. Is it easy to break free? No, not at all. At a certain age, we are not willing to take risks. We need certainty; we need security, and we might have increased responsibility.
Yet, we can witness that career transformation is possible and successful. If you’re considering a new career, this guide will provide a step-by-step roadmap to help you plan your transition, regardless of age. Let’s dive into it.
Change Your Career in 5 Steps
1. Understanding Why
No matter what you do, you need to be clear in your motivation for changing your career.
- Ask yourself the questions below:
- What does an ideal career path look like for me?
- What is not resonating with your current professional life? Is it the industry, the position, the responsibilities?
- What does appeal more to you? To be your boss or move up to senior roles?
- Are you looking for more personal development and growth?
- Would you prefer to have your farm, be in nature, or travel?
It all starts with understanding your why—your purpose, your mission, and your vision of a successful professional life. Everyone’s why is different. One size does not fit all.
2. Do Your Research
Without analyzing the trends and updates in the job market, your career transition might fail. Ask your peers, friends, and colleagues in different sectors. Try to volunteer in the industry you want to move in. See what it is like.
Networking is vital if you wish to do something completely different. Attend events and workshops and volunteer to experience if this is for you. Check out your transferable skills, which you might need to improve or learn for your new endeavors. If you need to learn a new skill, register for certification programs and online workshops to prepare.
3. Plan Your Financials
Why is that so important? Because we are so used to having a monthly pay check and transitioning to a new field or event, becoming an entrepreneur is scary as we don’t know how much we will earn each month. On the other hand, you might not be able to find your dream job right away. As an emerging entrepreneur, you need a financial buffer to sustain your living for one year.
There is no guarantee that you will immediately have some income. Eventually, it will come, though you need to plan a bit. If you are currently working and looking to change, the best move is to have a smooth transition, finding a job first and then resigning. If you feel bullied and your environment is toxic, then it is a different story. You might want to investigate different support models from your community to quit your job as soon as possible, as it is not healthy for your well-being.
Other possibilities are looking for:
- Investors
- Partnerships
- Sponsorships
- Grants
- Side gigs
4. Preparation
- Top up your CV, LinkedIn profile, and cover letter.
- Prepare for interviews
- Be active on LinkedIn, showcasing your skills and successes
- Set a timeline and micro goals to move ahead each day
Sometimes, the above tasks might be difficult to start with, and you might need a career coach to initiate the process. A career coach will save you time and guide you with powerful questions about your future direction. From my experience, sometimes, my clients change their initial goals entirely as they understand themselves and what they want.
5. Be patient and Resilient
Changing your career might take longer than you think; therefore, be prepared for it. Not all your applications will be successful. With some, you will have an interview; with some, you will only receive a message that you are not accepted.
Even an Interview is not a guarantee as there are many other applicants. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and keep applying, learning, and growing. Everyone has enough opportunities to find their place in this vast global working environment.
My motto is: Determination is the key to success.
Final Thoughts
The process of changing careers is not a one-size-fits-all process. You are unique, and so are your personality and skills. The key is to be focused on your goals and be positive. Whether you’re switching industries at 30 or starting fresh at 50, it’s never too late to pursue a career that fulfills and excites you.
I would be more than happy to talk with you if you are unsure about your future professional life.
Just Reach out.