Midlife Career Change – Is it for you?

Are you halfway to retirement and considering a career change? Maybe you’re in a role that is being eliminated or just ready to try something new as you dive in to the last half of your career. Where do you begin?

First, a career assessment is a great place to start. My Next Move is a free one that can be completed online or we can help you with an in-depth assessment that examines your personality and desired skills and abilities.

Another great resource for making a career change is the internet. You can search for “in-demand” careers online. According to Fortune, “healthcare and technology industries tied for the most openings in 2015.” ONET is another great tool for researching careers along with salaries and provides career exploration tools.

Regardless of what career you currently have, if you are itching to make a change, examine the following as you begin:

What is missing from what I do now that I want to be able to do on a regular basis? What skills do I need to use on a regular basis to bring satisfaction?

What is it that I do now that I want to continue to be able to do? What skills that I want to continue to use are transferrable to other careers?

What type of environment do I enjoy working in?

What careers match with the skills and abilities I want to use and are also in line with my work values?

Finally, why not do a trial run before jumping into a new career? Job shadowing is a great way to try out a new career (or two) before you make a change. Read 4 Tips for an Awesome Job Shadow or Informational Interview before your first one. 4 Great Benefits of Job Shadowing for Grown Ups offers more benefits of job shadowing for career changers.

Check out 4 Ways to Change Careers in Midlife and 5 Tips for Midlife Career Change for more insight into making a midlife career change.