Because of downsizing, layoffs or a change in their life's goals, many people over 50 are having to reassess career choices. Some boomers are using this transitional time as a way to perhaps scale back from a 60-hour workweek. Others are re-visiting long-forgotten interests and goals abandoned in their 20s and 30s in exchange for financial security. No matter what the motivation, finding a new career after your 50th birthday requires preparation, self-evaluation and perhaps a desire for adventure.
Step 1
Assess your lifestyle and financial needs. Before you decide on a new career path, be honest with yourself about your reasons for the change. Maybe you want to shift into a career that provides a steady paycheck, health care and retirement options. Or now might be the time to try your hand at a job that is fulfilling in other ways, such as working with children or giving back to the community. Whatever your career incentive, the first step toward future success is determining your long-term goals.
Step 2
Go where the jobs are going to be. It makes sense to prepare yourself for a career in a field that will need to expand its workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. economy may face a gap of 3 million workers by 2012. Consider a profession like nursing, education, health care or public service--all sectors labor analysts say may be poised for shortages in the coming years.
Step 3
Network through online social media sites. According to Kate Lorenz, advice editor at CareerBuilder website, "positions at upper levels are not as likely to be advertised, so networking is particularly important for the older professional in the job market." Social networking sites, including Linked-In, Twitter and Facebook, are an efficient way to connect with former colleagues and employees at companies you are interested in working for.
Step 4
Join trade and professional associations. As a member you'll have access to job announcements, career trends and continuing education opportunities in your chosen field. Many sites let you sign up for automatic notifications to be sent directly to your email address.
Step 5
Enroll in college to expand or update your professional skill set. Local community colleges offer a variety of certification programs, continuing education options and trade career opportunities. Explore the availability of financial aid and assistance for veterans, and those retraining for a new career.
Step 6
Follow your passion to find your next career. Maybe you always wanted to be a chef or a florist. After 20 or 30 years of working successfully in another career, this may be your chance to explore other interests. According to David Bohl, creator of Slowdownfast website, many workers older than 50 aren't enrolling in college classes as a means to an end. "And often, because these are hardworking individuals, they come out of the experience with an entirely new career path. A career they never had planned on and one that affords them a paycheck," Bohl said.
Step 7
Volunteer somewhere you'd like to work. Places like the local zoo, hospital, library or museum are eager to welcome experienced volunteers. "Volunteering in your community or joining a board of a local organization can provide the opportunity to meet your peers and showcase your skills and abilities," Lorenz added. The benefits are two-fold: While getting access to the decision-makers, you'll also get a sneak peek at what it's like to work there.
Step 8
Sign up for an off-the-beaten career path. Step out of your comfort zone and enroll in a class unrelated to your current career--maybe drama, sign language or woodworking. "This is a great way to rekindle your love of learning," said Dr. Robert Wiltenburg, dean of University College at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. "If you give yourself the freedom to explore new interests, you might uncover a passion that you never knew existed."
References
- U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; Employment projections to 2012:
- David Bohl; creator of slowdownfast website; Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
- Robert Wiltenburg, Ph.D., dean of University College; Washington University; St. Louis, Missouri
- CareerBuilder.com: Tips for the Over-50 Job Seeker
