If you’re no longer satisfied with your existing career, don’t hesitate to do a shift, even if you’re already in your fifties. Changing fields can offer new and exciting challenges that could boost your work satisfaction. However, to ensure you will get the desired results in your new occupation, there are many things to think of before making career changes. Here are five career changes for the over 50s.
Start in the Trade
Skilled tradespeople are always in high demand. In addition, the government offers training programs and apprenticeships for the older generations, which you can take advantage of. Options include electricians, carpenters, plumbers, roofers, and painter decorators.
When choosing what profession to pursue, it’s essential that you consider your lifestyle choices and whether your new career could support such a lifestyle. Most of those who decide to change careers in their fifties would prefer a job that can give them a good work-life balance or minimize stress levels, giving them more time to pursue their passion, hobbies, and interests. Think about the lifestyle you wish to support with the career you will go for, so you will have a better sense of what you are looking for, especially regarding the work schedule and salary.
Do not only think about the salary aspect. When making a career change in your fifties, money should not be the only factor to consider. Aside from your lifestyle, the other factors are health and job satisfaction. Have realistic expectations when setting career goals to ensure optimal satisfaction from your new job.
Develop Existing Skills
Transferrable skills are your best assets when switching careers. So, before you search for jobs, identify your skills and develop them. List down your workplace skills and include everything, from basic computer skills to communication skills and specialized knowledge in your field. Consider taking up free online courses & e-learning training to help you advance in your current role.
Once you have identified and developed your existing skills, compare these skills to the skills required in the job you plan to pursue. Highlight your skills on your resume and mention that you have undergone training to develop your skills. Do not forget to emphasize technical skills. Unfortunately, many employers incorrectly assume that jobseekers over fifty do not have the technical skills to keep up with the younger candidates.
It’s a good idea to pursue a career with the same skills you have from your previous job. That way, you will not have to spend time and effort getting trained. Also, most employers would prefer to hire someone who already has the existing skills needed for the position.
Become a teacher
More and more people in their fifties are switching to a teaching career. Research done by the London School of Business shows that among working adults between the age of 45 and 54, around half are seeking opportunities in the field of education.
People in their fifties make excellent teachers for various reasons. The teaching profession emphasizes “real-world experiences” since it benefits the students by giving them a sense of insight and perspective. At fifty, you have already acquired many skills that you can use for teaching. In addition, many of those in their fifties have more time to devote to teaching. At this age, their kids are already older and more self-sufficient or have built their own families already.
Teaching is a rewarding career with a variety of things on offer. For instance, teaching in a primary school presents different experiences and challenges compared to teaching in secondary school or college, yet many find this job very fulfilling. An essential element in this is the sense of purpose behind your role and the positive impact it gives when working with the younger generation.
Software Engineers Could Learn Code
Those who are fond of computers and skilled in computer technology may want to learn to code and consider a career in software engineering, a field essential to computer technology. Without the software to run the computer, the computer is merely a clump of plastic.
Software engineering is an engineering profession that requires the application of engineering principles to the overall design, development, and implementation of software. Since software engineering is a unique and technically driven field, special training is necessary, where you will learn more about coding. If you pursue a degree in software engineering, you can work in various aspects of the industry, from developing apps to creating video games.
If you are serious about pursuing a career in software engineering, get in touch with a specialist recruitment agency specializing in C++ Jobs. These are agencies specializing in recruiting for C++ programming jobs and Visual C++ software developer roles. They can match you with companies looking for a software engineer.
Life Coaching
One of the career options to consider in your fifties is a life coach or mentor. This role requires having enough life and work experiences to draw from, which is why it’s ideal for those already in their fifties.
The role of a life coach is to advise people on how they can improve or change their lifestyle to be happier and more satisfied with life. While you do not necessarily need formal qualifications to work as a life coach or mentor, it would help if you have industry-specific qualifications in your chosen field. In doing so, you’ll appear more credible to your clients, boosting your confidence and competence when starting a new career.
There are many different types of mentoring jobs you can take up. Aside from being a life coach, you can also become a business coach or a mentor to younger people. Working as a life coach is a very fulfilling career. Coaches experience utmost peace and satisfaction while they live in harmony with their values, which include being of service to others and talking about things that matter most in life. It’s a great opportunity to use your gifts and perhaps, fulfill your purpose in life.
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