How to change careers in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond

Your age shouldn’t hold you back from changing careers. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s or older, there’s no reason why you can’t start a new challenge in a different industry or sector. If you’re experienced in the workplace, and you’re interested in a change, read our guide on how to change careers.

How to change careers at 30: Embracing flexibility

Self-Assessment

Your 30s is a time when you’ve probably built up some professional experience. Reflect on what you’ve learned about yourself. What are your strengths? What brings you joy? Utilise tools like career aptitude tests or consultations with career coaches. In your late 20s and 30s, you’re still in the early stages of your working life, so you can take some of the earlier experiences you have to shape exactly what you want and don’t want in your next job.

Network

Reconnect with old colleagues, attend industry seminars, or join relevant groups on LinkedIn. Your next opportunity might come from a casual conversation!

How to change careers at 40: Leverage Your Experience

Transferable Skills

When you’re in your 40s, you have a number of valuable skills that can be applied in various sectors. For example, if you’ve been in sales but wish to move into project management, your negotiation and client relations skills will be invaluable.

Financial Planning

Consider speaking to a financial advisor. Transitioning might mean a temporary dip in income, so it’s important to be prepared. This may not be the case though, so it’s a great time to weigh up your priorities when it comes to a new career. You may be looking for a higher salary, but this might come with a sacrifice to your flexibility. Your 40s is a perfect time to take a step back and think about what you really want from a new career.

Consider Consultancy

With your wealth of experience, many companies might value your insights on a consultancy basis. This can be a more flexible entry point into a new industry.

In Your 50s and Beyond: Harness Wisdom

If you’re looking at how to change careers in your 50s or older, you will have a wealth of knowledge and experience to harness and benefit from.

Mentorship

Your years in the workforce have given you a great wealth of knowledge. Many younger professionals or people starting their career could benefit from your guidance. At Churchill, we know that starting a new job can be daunting. We value our experienced workforce and will provide support and training to suit each individual joining us in the later stages of their career.

Stay Updated

While you bring a wealth of experience, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest trends in the industry you’re interested in. This will make you a more appealing candidate as you bring a blend of wisdom and current knowledge. You can do this by connecting with people from industries you’re interested in on LinkedIn, following companies you’re thinking about and starting conversations with new connections.

What if I don’t have any formal qualifications?

Not having any formal qualifications should never hold you back. Experience often outweighs formal qualifications for many employers. Transitioning careers without official credentials might be more feasible than you think. While qualifications can be beneficial during career shifts, they certainly aren’t necessary for you to have a new fulfilling career at 50 or over. As long as you have determination, perseverance, and a zest to learn new skills, success in career changes without standard qualifications is within reach for anyone.

Working for Churchill as an experienced worker

Hopefully we’ve given you good guidance on how to change careers when you’re more experienced. At Churchill, our colleagues are at the heart of our business. Wherever you’re at in your career, we will ensure you have the right tools and opportunities to excel down a fresh and exciting career path.

With opportunities to harmonise your work/life balance, we will support you to be the best you can be. If you’re thinking about changing careers or moving roles, then please view our available roles or contact us if you have any questions.