Midlife Career Change in 7 Steps

John Krautzel
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A midlife career change isn't something to take lightly, but if you find yourself unhappy personally and professionally, it's a viable option. The right job opportunity can boost your overall well-being and financial status. Decide which field you want to enter, then approach your job search using these seven steps.

1. Evaluate Your Current Position

Assess your happiness both personally and professionally. Determine if there are ways you could make your position more satisfying or if a career change is inevitable. Spend some time evaluating whether your unhappiness stems from a colleague, company or your own actions.

2. Brainstorm Your Interests and Skills

Picture your ideal job. Does it require a certain set of skills? Do you possess those skills? Does the job cater to your interests? If you're not sure, consider taking a few career tests that can help evaluate your values, qualifications and personality to determine the best type of career for your future.

3. Research Job Options

Making a career change is an important decision that requires extensive research. Network with professionals working in fields you are interested in to find out more about job duties, expectations and required qualifications.

4. Assess Your Transferrable Skills

It's likely you have skills you can use in various industries. Research the qualifications required for your desired industry, and highlight the required skills you already possess when completing a resume and cover letter during your job search.

5. Consider Additional Training

Make yourself a much more valuable job candidate by acquiring the training you need to succeed in a new industry. Look into professional development workshops at local colleges, or attend a national conference or convention to boost your knowledge and experience before making a career change.

6. Network with Professionals

Establish a professional relationship with people already working in the industry of your choice. Attend networking gatherings and prepare an elevator pitch to help break the ice with those you meet. Don't hesitate to discuss your skills and qualifications at networking events. Also, reach out to professionals on social media sites, too, such as LinkedIn or Twitter.

7. Keep Track of Your Progress

Spend time measuring your results as you work through each step. Keep track of members of your network, track the number of courses or workshops you've attended and document this information on your resume and cover letter. It's also helpful to create a spreadsheet or log of the positions you applied for while considering a career change, so you can easily follow up with potential employers.

Your happiness at work matters and significantly affects your performance. A career change is a major step personally and professionally during any stage of life, so follow these steps to boost your chances of finding employment that challenges you and allows you to make an impact in an industry you love.


Photo Courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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