What is the Average Age for Career Changes?
We hear a lot of questions regarding the average age of career changes. Is it 30? 40? 50? even 60? Making a career change can be challenging, especially as we get older. Starting over in a new industry or career field can be particularly intimidating when you’ve been in the same industry for years. So what’s the best age for career change? With the right approach, you can make a career change at any age and do it smoothly.
If you’re considering starting a new career or even switching careers, you might be wondering how to go about it in the most efficient way possible. Here are 10 easy steps that you can take to make the career transition as smooth as possible:
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Assess Your Interests and Skills
Before jumping into a new career path, make a structured assessment of your interests and skills. Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing. This will give you an idea of your transferable skills and the kinds of job opportunities that you might want to pursue. There are a range of tools and surveys available to help you with this assessment, including the Strong Interest Survey and StrengthsFinder.
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Research Your Options
Once you’ve identified some possible career paths, it’s time to do some research. Look into the job requirements, salary range, work life balance, and potential advancement opportunities. Make sure this is a career path you’d be comfortable pursuing in the long term.
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Set Goals and Make a Plan
Once you’ve identified a career path, setting specific goals and planning for reaching them is essential. Set specific, timebound objectives. This could include taking classes, gaining experience, and applying for jobs.
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Expand Your Professional Network
A solid professional network is essential to making a successful career change. Start building relationships with people in the industry in which you’re interested. This could include attending networking events, joining professional organizations, and reaching out to contacts.
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Talk to People in the Field
Talking to the average person already working in the field you’re considering can be a great way to get an inside look into your targeted industry or function. Ask questions about their experiences, job satisfaction, and what they wish they had known before they entered the field.
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Gather Experience
Experience is critical when making a career change. If you don’t have any background in the new field, you can try to gain some through job shadowing, internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs before transitioning to full time.
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Revisit Your Action Plan
Once you’ve researched and talked to people in the field, it’s time to revisit your action plan. Your revised plan should include the specific steps needed to make the transition, such as getting additional training or certifications.
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Update Your Resume
Make sure that your resume is up to date and tailored to the new career path that you’re pursuing. Highlight any experience, skills, or education you’ve acquired relevant to the industry.
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Take the Leap
Once you’ve researched, set goals, and gathered experience, it’s time to take the leap with the career change. Don’t be afraid to take risks; recognize that it’s never too late to pursue a change.
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Be Patient
Making a career change can take time, so be patient. Don’t expect to land your dream job overnight. It may take months or even years of time and effort to find the perfect job. Be persistent and focused on your goals.
The Best Age for Career Change is Any Age!
Making a career change at any age can be tricky, but it’s possible with a bit of planning and dedication. Follow these easy steps to make the mid career transition as smooth as possible.
PathWise provides a comprehensive suite of career management solutions to help individuals take control of their professional lives. With our mix of insights, tools, coaches, and community, PathWise puts members in the driver’s seat regarding their careers. Whether you need advice on how to find the right job, build your network, or advance your career, PathWise can help. For more information about career change processes, contact us today.
