6 Tips for a Successful Midlife Career Change

Do you find yourself dreaming of a new career? You’re not alone. Spurred by advancements in technology (like artificial intelligence) and layoffs in many fields, nearly half of workers are contemplating a career change this year. 

But while dreaming about switching your field is easy, knowing how to change careers is not nearly as simple. Getting good career change advice can be hard and knowing when to take the leap is key to making sound decisions. Here are six tips that can help you decide whether to make the shift in midlife and position yourself for the greatest success. 

Tip 1: Ask Yourself the Tough Questions

Sometimes a career change sounds good, but it’s nothing to decide to do on a whim. Sit down and ask yourself the big question: Why do you want to change careers? You may find that it’s a difficult question to answer, or maybe the answer is complicated. But unpacking it can help you determine the right direction for you.

Maybe you want to change fields completely, or maybe you want to look for opportunities in the same industry, but at a new company. The important part is to really mull over the questions. Don’t have a few bad days and make a snap decision to quit with your judgment clouded. Thoroughly weigh all the benefits and drawbacks over a span of weeks, or even months.

Tip 2: Consult Others

Of course, a decision as momentous as a career change is ultimately your decision. It might mean getting more education, making a major change in your lifestyle or moving to a new city. That’s why trusted friends, family and industry professionals may provide valuable insight and offer significant midlife career change advice that you haven’t considered.

Talking to people who know you or may know something about the industry is critical for making your career change successful — especially in midlife.

Tip 3: Give Your New Career a Test Run

If you don’t have any first-hand experience in the industry you want to work in, jumping straight in may not work out the way you want. If you’re curious about working in a different field, gaining bits of experience may be key to a successful career change.

Consider shadowing someone in a related job, finding an internship or picking up a part-time job so you can decide if this is the right fit for you. In addition to helping you understand if you really like this field, these experiences can also build up your resume.

Tip 4: Take a Class or Two

If you’re headed into a completely new career path, then taking some classes in the field can expand your knowledge base. Research what classes are available through a local college, online or in your community. And remember: Your current job might pay for classes while you’re employed, so don’t quit your job too quickly!

Tip 5: Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Because your resume and cover letter are often the first opportunities you have to showcase your skills to a prospective employer, it’s important to make sure they’re current — especially when you’re shifting your career in a new direction.

Highlight your relevant skills to show a clear connection between your experience and the new position. Make sure they tell your story and are crafted to convince your prospective employer you would be a good choice. Update your profile on sites like LinkedIn, Indeed or ZipRecruiter so that prospective employers can find you online.

After your resume is current and your job board profiles are updated, reach out to those in your network who are connected to the field you want to pursue. They can help introduce you to others in the profession.

Tip 6: Consider Your Finances

Your new career path may promise a bit more variety, flexible hours or a chance to pursue your passion. But if it leaves you strapped for cash or delays retirement, you may need to consider other options for revenue streams like picking up a part time job or side gigs to make up for lost income. Take a close look at salaries in your new field, as well as benefits and retirement offerings, to ensure you can afford the change.

• Salary: If your new career promises a higher salary, terrific! But if changing careers midlife means taking a pay cut, you may need to evaluate your budget to see if you can swing the move financially.
• Benefits: Pay isn’t the only financial factor to consider. Do you depend on your current employer’s benefits, such as medical, dental, vision and life insurance, or long-term and short-term disability? If so, before you make a midlife career change, you’ll want to be sure your new employer offers the same benefits, or the shift could end up costing you more.
• Retirement: If you’re at the midpoint of your career, you’re probably thinking about retirement more and more each day. When you’re evaluating possible new employers, look at their retirement packages, and check to see if they offer a 401(k) match.

Make Sure You Are Covered

Because a career change is a big life event, be sure your world is covered. Reach out to Farm Bureau today and schedule a SuperCheck® to be sure you’re ready for the future.