Have you ever sat in your car on a Monday morning, dreading the workday ahead? If so, you’re not alone. Many professionals reach a point where they feel stuck in an unfulfilling job and dream about changing careers. In fact, one recent poll found approximately half (52%) of workers are considering a career change in the near term. And it’s not just idle daydreaming – nearly 29% of people have completely changed fields since starting their first job. The desire for a more rewarding, meaningful work life is common, and making a career change is entirely possible at virtually any age or stage of your career.
But how do you actually do it? This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to make a successful career change – from the first inkling of “I need something different” to landing that new role. We’ll cover practical steps for exploring new career paths, strategies for reskilling and networking, and tips tailored to different career stages (whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s). You’ll also find real-world examples of people who made dramatic career pivots – and succeeded. Changing careers can feel daunting, but with the right approach and mindset, you can transition into work that excites and fulfills you. Let’s dive in!
Not everyone wakes up one day and immediately decides to change careers. Usually, there’s a build-up of feelings and realizations over time. Here are some common signs that it might be time for a career change:
Chronic Unhappiness at Work: Do you feel disengaged, bored, or unhappy in your day-to-day work? Perhaps you watch the clock, dread Mondays, or feel zero passion for the projects on your plate. As one career changer put it, “The feeling of constantly chasing my tail became overwhelming.” Long-term dissatisfaction is a clear signal that your current career isn’t a good fit.
Burnout and Stress: If your job is affecting your mental or physical health, it’s time to rethink things. For example, Michael, a secondary school teacher, reached a breaking point on his morning commute:
“One Monday morning, I pulled over on my way to work and realized I couldn’t face going in. By the end of that week I’d handed in my notice.”
Michael’s story illustrates how burnout and stress can push someone to make a dramatic change. If you’re constantly exhausted or anxious about work, a new career path could lead to a healthier lifestyle.
No Sense of Purpose: You may have a *“good” job on paper but still feel unfulfilled because the work lacks personal meaning. For instance, Sarah, a former lawyer, enjoyed financial stability and learned valuable skills in law, but ultimately, “I longed to work in an area I was truly passionate about, where I felt I could make a difference.” When you crave more purpose or alignment with your values in your work, it’s a strong motivator to explore other fields.
Limited Growth or Advancement: If your industry is shrinking or your role has no clear advancement opportunities, you might consider switching to a field with more room to grow. Maybe you’ve hit a ceiling, or the parts of the job you used to enjoy have faded. Nick, who worked in finance, felt this acutely: “I felt like a small cog in a huge machine… I wasn’t achieving my potential.” He decided to leave his overworking corporate job and retrain as a nurse, seeking work he could be proud of.
New Interests or Life Circumstances: Sometimes your own priorities change. You might discover a new passion you want to pursue professionally, or life events (like starting a family, relocating, or dealing with a pandemic) might shift your perspective on what work matters to you. If you find yourself repeatedly thinking “I’ve always wanted to do X instead,” that’s a sign to investigate it further.
Ultimately, the decision to change careers is personal, but if you’re experiencing a persistent gut feeling that “I’m in the wrong career,” pay attention. Life is too short to spend decades in a career that drains you. The good news is that switching paths is not only possible – it’s increasingly common. Many people go through multiple careers in their lifetime, and for a variety of good reasons (from reducing stress to seeking a better salary or work-life balance). In the next sections, we’ll address how to overcome the most common obstacles and outline a step-by-step plan to execute your career change.
Changing careers can feel intimidating, and it’s normal to have fears. Let’s tackle a few of the big ones upfront:
“Am I too old to change careers?” – No! This is one of the most pervasive myths. People switch careers at all ages. In fact, the average age of a person changing careers is around 39 years old, and plenty of folks make successful changes in their 40s, 50s, even 60s. Employers today value skills and experience, not just age. It’s important to frame your age as an asset (you likely have more work experience, discipline, and professional network than a new grad).“No, you’re not too old, and it’s not too late. Plenty of people change their careers in their 50s (and even their 60s)!”. So don’t let your birth year be an excuse – it’s your skills and mindset that matter.
“I don’t have experience in anything else – do I have to start over from scratch?” – Not exactly. While you might need to learn new things, you carry a wealth of transferable skills from your current career. Skills like communication, project management, problem-solving, leadership, or technical abilities can often apply in a new context. The key is identifying those transferable skills and highlighting them to future employers (we’ll cover this in the steps below). You may have to start at a slightly lower level or salary in the new field – for example, some career changers need to take an entry-level role to get a foot in the door. But you won’t be “back at square one” because your prior work experience still counts for something. Many employers actually appreciate the diverse background you bring. Be prepared to explain that you’re willing to learn and possibly take a junior title in exchange for the opportunity to grow in the new field. It’s a temporary step back that can lead to long-term gains in fulfillment and eventually, advancement.
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“What if I fail or regret it?” – It’s true that any big change comes with risks. You might worry that the new career won’t work out or that you’ll miss aspects of your old one. But remember, not making a change is also risky – you risk staying unhappy or stagnant. One way to mitigate fear is to test the waters of your new field before fully leaping (for example, take on a small freelance project or a part-time course in the new area to see if you actually enjoy it). Also, frame the career change as an experiment or adventure rather than an irreversible leap. Most skills you gain are never wasted; even if you decide a particular path isn’t for you, you can course-correct. As one coach wisely put it: “If you don’t take any of the paths, you’re never going to get out of the forest. If you take one of them, it may not be the right track initially, but you can course-correct.” In other words, taking action will eventually lead you to clarity – standing still won’t.
Financial Concerns: Money is a practical obstacle. You might fear a pay cut or worry about supporting your family during the transition. The reality is you do need to plan financially for a career change. If you’re mid-career with obligations, start saving a “transition fund” to cover several months of expenses if possible. Many career changers continue in their current job while training or job-searching for the new one to maintain income longer. You can also look for ways to monetize your new skills gradually (freelance on the side, etc.) before fully switching. Yes, you might earn less initially in a new field, but consider it an investment in long-term happiness. Also, factor in the potential long-run benefits – a new career could offer growth opportunities or earning potential your old one didn’t. Plan and budget for a slow start, build a financial cushion, and you’ll feel much more secure making the leap.
“What will people think?” – Worrying about others’ opinions (whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues) is natural, but remember that you are the one living your life and working that job every day. Some people might not understand your desire to change – especially if you’re leaving a traditionally “successful” career. They might label you as fickle or question your decision. Try not to let external judgment stop you. Instead, seek out people who do support your goals (mentors, other career changers, or supportive friends). Surrounding yourself with a positive support network makes a huge difference. In fact, making a career change is easier when you don’t do it alone – more on that later. Ultimately, the satisfaction of finding work that fits you will outweigh any raised eyebrows during the transition. As long as you’ve thought it through and are doing it for the right reasons, stand by your decision confidently.
Now that we’ve addressed these common fears, it’s time to get into action. A thoughtful, step-by-step plan will replace a lot of that fear with confidence. Below, we outline how to navigate a career change from start to finish.
Changing careers is a process – it doesn’t usually happen overnight. Think of it as a project you’re managing, where you’re the project lead and the project outcome! Here’s a roadmap of steps to guide your career change journey:
Every successful career change starts with looking inward. Before you start browsing job listings or enrolling in courses, take time to assess your own priorities, interests, and values. Ask yourself some key questions:
Grab a notebook and jot down your thoughts. This is essentially doing a “career audit” on yourself. The clearer you are on what you hope to gain from a career change, the easier it will be to find a fitting new path.
It may help to also list what you don’t want. Think about the aspects of your current job that you dislike the most – e.g. endless bureaucracy, sales pressure, solitary desk work, whatever it might be. This helps set criteria to avoid in your next career.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider using tools like career interest assessments or personality tests (such as StrengthsFinder, Holland Code (RIASEC) tests, etc.). They can provide ideas about fields or roles that match your interests and strengths. Additionally, try reflecting on times in any job (or even hobbies and volunteer work) when you felt engaged and happy. What were you doing? Those moments can hold clues to what kind of work energizes you.
Real-world example: After a decade in marketing, Nick realized the part he loved most was helping mentor new team members and doing work that had a tangible impact on others. This self-insight led him to pursue nursing – a complete career 180 that aligned with his desire to care for people. He went back to basics, retrained through a nursing program, and found the fulfillment he was missing in corporate life.
The self-reflection phase might take days or weeks; some people even take a sabbatical or time off to soul-search. Don’t rush it – understanding what you want will be the foundation for all your career change decisions. Once you have some potential directions in mind (maybe a couple of industries or roles that intrigue you), you can move forward to exploring them.
With some self-assessment done, you likely have a few career ideas or at least fields to investigate. Now it’s time for research mode. The goal of this step is to learn about the careers you’re considering and narrow down your options. Here’s how:
Read and educate yourself: Start with online research about the fields or roles of interest. Look up job descriptions, industry forecasts, required qualifications, typical salaries, and growth opportunities. For example, if you’re thinking about transitioning into digital marketing or data analysis, find articles or forums discussing “a day in the life” of those professionals. The more you know, the better you can assess if it’s truly appealing to you.
Informational interviews: One of the most valuable research tools is talking directly to people in the field. Try to set up short, informal conversations with individuals who do the kind of work you’re interested in. You can reach out on LinkedIn, through friends-of-friends, or industry networking events. Ask them what their job is like, what skills are needed, what the challenges and rewards are, and what advice they’d give someone looking to break in. These chats can provide realistic insights you won’t find on a careers website. Plus, you’re simultaneously growing your network in that field (bonus!).
Join communities and events: Attend webinars, meetups, or professional association events related to your target field. If you’re curious about moving from, say, finance to sustainable energy, look for local sustainability meetups or online communities. Immersing yourself among people in the field can spark ideas and give you a sense of whether you’d enjoy that environment. It also helps you pick up the lingo and current hot topics in the industry.
Find role models: Identify people who have careers you think you want. LinkedIn can be great for this – search for profiles of folks who have the job title or industry you’re considering. Look at their backgrounds. How did they get there? What was their career path? In some cases, you might even find they also came from a different field originally. This exercise can reveal multiple pathways to get into a role. (Tip: If you find someone with a similar background who transitioned into your desired field, consider messaging them for an informational interview or advice – people love to help, especially if they’ve walked the same road.)
Training and qualification research: Figure out what (if any) additional training, certifications, or degrees your new career ideas typically require. Some fields are easier to enter than others. For instance, transitioning into sales, marketing, or project management might leverage your existing experience heavily, whereas moving into medical professions or law would require substantial re-schooling. Know what you’re in for. If a role needs a specific certification or technical skill, note that down as something you’ll have to address in your action plan.
While researching, keep an open mind. You might discover new roles you never knew existed. Many career changers start with a vague idea (“I like tech” or “I want to help people”) and during research they find a specific niche that clicks (like UX design, or counseling, or nonprofit fundraising, etc.). Allow yourself to explore. It’s okay if you have a “long list” of possibilities initially – you will pare it down.
By the end of this research phase, try to narrow your focus to a short list of 1-3 target career paths that excite you and seem feasible. You don’t have to decide with absolute certainty yet, but you do need a direction to start taking concrete steps.
Once you know where you want to go next, it’s time to connect the dots from your past experience to your future career. This means identifying transferable skills and figuring out what new skills or education you might need.
Start by listing out your key skills, accomplishments, and areas of expertise from your current and past jobs. This includes “hard skills” (like specific software, languages, analytical skills, writing, budgeting, etc.) and “soft skills” (leadership, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, etc.). Now, compare that list to the typical requirements of your target role. Where do you see overlap? Those overlapping items are your transferable skills – the golden nuggets you will market to future employers. For example, if you’ve been a teacher and you’re pivoting to corporate training, your public speaking and curriculum planning skills are absolutely transferable. Or if you’ve been an accountant moving into data analysis, your quantitative and Excel skills put you ahead.
It’s a good idea to literally highlight or match things from a job posting of the new field with things you’ve done. You might be surprised how many of your abilities are not industry-specific after all. A CompTIA study on career changers emphasizes making a list of your transferable job skills and highlighting those on your resume and LinkedIn. You want to frame your narrative around what you bring to the table thanks to your prior experience.
Next, identify the skill gaps – what do you need to learn or acquire to be competitive in the new field? This could be a technical skill (e.g. learning a programming language, getting a real estate license), or more experience in a certain area (e.g. project management, portfolio of creative work). Rank these gaps by importance. Some might be “must-haves” (non-negotiable qualifications for the job), while others might be nice bonuses that you can actually learn on the job once you get hired.
For each gap, research how you can fill it. Can you take an online course or a short certification program? Are there free resources to self-study? Could you volunteer or freelance in a small capacity to build that experience? We’ll talk more about gaining experience in the next step. The key here is to make a learning plan. Don’t be intimidated if the list is long – prioritize the top one or two competencies that will make the biggest difference.
Also, sometimes reframing is just as important as retraining. You might realize you have a skill but haven’t been “marketing” it because it wasn’t central to your old job. For instance, maybe you did a lot of event planning as an “extra duty” in your current role – that’s a project coordination skill highly relevant if you want to become, say, a project manager or an event coordinator. So part of identifying transferable skills is identifying transferable stories from your past that will resonate in your new industry.
This step is basically about building your bridge from Old You to New You. By the end of it, you should be able to answer: “What can I offer in my new career, based on what I’ve done before?” and “What do I still need to learn to be successful there?”
Now that you know what you need, it’s time to take action and start filling those skill gaps. This step often happens in parallel with the job search, but ideally you start earlier – even while you’re still exploring – because it can take a while to build up experience.
Here are some practical ways to gain skills and experience for your new career before you officially land that new job:
Take Courses or Certifications: Enroll in training programs relevant to your new field. There are countless online platforms (Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, etc.) and offline courses that can teach you everything from coding and UX design to project management or digital marketing. Some fields may require formal certifications (for example, getting a PMP for project management, or a CPA for accounting, or a teaching credential for education). Make a plan to obtain those credentials if needed. A career change often involves becoming a student again in some capacity – but remember, learning new things is an investment in yourself. As an example, Tony Phillips (a career changer highlighted by CompTIA) started a new IT career at age 40 by going back to school for certifications, proving it’s never too late to train for a fresh field.
Build a Portfolio or Do Personal Projects: In many careers (especially creative, tech, or analytical ones), having tangible examples of your work can significantly boost your credibility. If you want to become a web developer, build some websites or apps on your own to showcase. If you’re transitioning to content writing, start a blog or compile writing samples. Want to move into data science? Do a small data analysis project on a topic you enjoy. These projects not only sharpen your skills but also serve as proof to future employers that you’re capable and proactive. Plus, they’re great talking points in interviews – you can discuss what you did in your self-initiated project just like you would discuss a past job task.
Volunteer or Freelance: Offer your services for free or low-cost to get experience. For instance, if you’re moving into marketing, volunteer to manage social media for a local non-profit. If you’re shifting from corporate to nonprofit work, join a volunteer committee or board. Pivoting into event planning? Help organize a charity event. Freelancing is another way – take on a small gig in the new field alongside your current job. Even one or two projects can give you relevant bullets for your resume. It also helps you test out the work in a real-world setting. One caution: be mindful of any non-compete or employment agreements in your current job if you freelance.
Internships or Part-Time Roles: If feasible, some career changers take on internships, apprenticeships, or part-time junior roles in their new field to gain experience. This can be tricky as an older professional, but it’s not unheard of. Sometimes you have to swallow your pride to learn from the ground up. The benefit is hands-on experience and often a foot in the door. For example, a teacher switching to an HR career might take an HR assistant internship over the summer to get exposure. If you can afford a short-term pay cut or have flexibility, these can accelerate your transition.
Apply within your current company: Don’t overlook opportunities at your current workplace. Is there a department doing the kind of work you want to do? Sometimes a career change doesn’t require leaving your company – it could be an internal transfer or a new role that leverages your institutional knowledge. Let’s say you work in sales at a company but want to move into training & development; perhaps you can shift into a training role in the HR department. You already know the business, which can make you an attractive candidate internally, even if you lack some specific experience.
Remember, action precedes clarity. As one career expert noted, “In short, action precedes clarity, not the other way round.” Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready or have every skill perfectly polished – start doing and learning. Each course you take, each project you attempt, will not only build your resume but also confirm whether this new career feels right.
Importantly, you don’t need to have mastered the new career before you apply for jobs in it. You just need enough competence and knowledge to demonstrate potential. Employers hiring a career changer don’t expect you to be an expert on day one – they look for your passion, your aptitude, and how your existing strengths will translate. So step 4 is about getting yourself to the point where you can confidently say, “I’ve been working hard to prepare for this change. I may not have 5 years of experience in the industry, but I have done X, Y, Z to learn the ropes and I’m ready to contribute.”
We hinted at this earlier, but it’s worth its own step: don’t try to execute a career change all by yourself. Connecting with others is one of the most powerful accelerators of a career transition. Many opportunities, advice, and insights will come from talking to people, not just reading job ads. Here’s how networking and support can help:
Tap into your existing network: By the time you’ve spent a few years in the workforce, you’ve likely built a network of colleagues, friends, alumni, acquaintances, and more. Let them know (strategically) that you’re exploring a career change. You don’t have to announce it to your current boss too early, but you can discreetly mention to trusted contacts, “I’m thinking of moving into X field – do you know anyone I could talk to or any opportunities?” You’d be surprised: someone from your college or a former coworker might be in that field and can offer guidance or introductions. Leveraging personal and professional networks can help you get informational interviews or even real interviews that wouldn’t be accessible otherwise. People generally like to help, especially if you approach them politely and show genuine enthusiasm for their industry.
Meet new people in your target field: Earlier we talked about informational interviews and attending industry events. Keep doing that and deepen those connections. If you hit it off with someone in an informational chat, stay in touch – maybe update them on your progress or ask further questions down the line. These contacts can become referrals or alert you to job openings. Remember the advice from entrepreneur Ben Casnocha: “Opportunities do not float like clouds in the sky. They're attached to people. If you're looking for an opportunity, you're really looking for a person.”. This rings especially true for career changers who might not sail through automated resume filters. A personal referral or recommendation can get you considered for a role that might otherwise overlook you due to your unconventional background.
Seek mentors or advisors: Identify someone who’s a few steps ahead in the path you want and ask if they’d be willing to mentor or advise you. This could be a formal mentorship or just the occasional coffee chat for advice. For example, if you’re trying to break into entrepreneurship, maybe you have a friend-of-a-friend who started their own business who could be a sounding board. Or if you’re shifting from corporate to academia, perhaps a former professor could give you pointers. Mentors can provide invaluable perspective, encouragement, and sometimes connections.
Join career change groups or communities: You’re definitely not the only person going through this. There are online communities (forums, LinkedIn/Facebook groups) and local meetups specifically for people in career transition. Joining these can give you emotional support and practical tips. It feels motivating to share experiences with others in the same boat and celebrate each other’s progress. Some communities host job search workshops or practice interview sessions too.
Consider a career coach: If you have the resources, hiring a career coach or attending a career change workshop can be a worthwhile investment. Career coaches specialize in guiding people through transitions – they can help you clarify goals, keep you accountable, and teach you job-hunting strategies. They also provide moral support and confidence boosts (sometimes what we need most is someone to say “Yes, you can do this, and here’s how”). Many universities offer alumni career services at a low cost, and there are nonprofit career centers in some cities as well.
Most importantly, involve your friends and family if you can. Even if they don’t have professional connections for you, having their emotional support will help tremendously. Changing careers can be stressful at times – you might face rejections or feel doubt – and having a support system to cheer you on or lend an ear is invaluable.
Networking isn’t about coldly asking for jobs; it’s about building relationships. Be genuinely curious about others, be willing to give help where you can too, and over time those relationships will yield opportunities. Some of the best things in a career change happen because someone thought of you when an opportunity arose.
Real-world example: Gaining support from others was the turning point for Richard, a professional who felt stuck in an unfulfilling job. He noted that “I only really started to make progress when I deliberately put others around me.” He connected with co-workers who also wanted to escape, hired career coaches, and met new people in different industries – one of whom eventually led him to a job he loved. By doing it with others, he gained accountability, new ideas, and insider connections that helped him break out of inertia.
The bottom line: people help people. Don’t isolate yourself when attempting a career change. The more you engage with others, the faster you’ll learn and the sooner you’ll find the right door to walk through.
As you prepare to actually apply for jobs in your target field, you need to present yourself in the best possible light for that field. In practical terms, this means refreshing your resume, LinkedIn profile, and cover letters to emphasize the qualifications that matter for your new career, and downplay or translate the parts that are unrelated.
Craft a career change resume: You might choose a functional resume format that highlights skills over chronological job history, if your past roles are very different from the new role. Lead with a strong profile or summary statement that makes it clear you’re transitioning into the field and bring valuable skills. Focus your experience bullets on transferable accomplishments. You don’t need to list every duty you ever had – instead, tailor your descriptions to showcase relevant skills. For example, if you’re moving from sales to UX design, you won’t spend lots of resume space describing how you met sales quotas; instead, you might emphasize how you listened to customer needs, led client presentations (showcasing communication skills), and perhaps mention any design-related tasks you took initiative on. Use the language of your target industry in your resume and LinkedIn. If the new field values “clients” instead of “customers” or uses certain jargon, adopt those terms to sound like an insider. It shows you’ve done your homework and helps automated systems pick up relevant keywords too.
Highlight training and projects: Make sure to include your newly acquired certifications, courses, or personal project experience in your application materials. If you built a portfolio, link to it. If you completed a capstone project in a class, mention it like you would a job project (e.g. “Developed a marketing campaign for a mock product launch as part of XYZ course”). This shows employers that you haven’t just been passively daydreaming – you’ve actively been building capability for the new role.
Leverage your unique background: While you want to focus on relevant skills, don’t entirely ignore the unique perspective your previous career gives you. Sometimes being a career changer can actually be an advantage. Perhaps your years as a nurse make you uniquely empathetic as you move into a customer success role at a tech company – that’s a selling point! Or your experience in accounting means you bring a great eye for detail to your new career in project management. Find those angles and consider mentioning them in a cover letter or interview: why does your unconventional background make you a stronger candidate? If you can articulate that, you ease the concern of “this person has no direct experience.”
Update your LinkedIn and online presence: Recruiters and hiring managers will look you up online. Ensure your LinkedIn profile reflects your career change goals. Write a new headline/tagline mentioning the field you’re entering (for example, “Marketing Professional Transitioning into Data Analytics” or “Educator turned Web Developer – Seeking Opportunities in Tech”). In your LinkedIn summary, share a brief narrative about your career change: express passion for the new field, mention relevant training or projects, and highlight the transferable skills. Also update your skills section with any new skills so that you show up in searches for those terms. If you have a personal website or portfolio, now’s the time to polish it. Remove old stuff that isn’t relevant or frame it in a way that suits your new professional identity.
Prepare your “story”: One thing career changers must do in applications and interviews is convincingly answer “Why are you changing careers?” and “Why this field/job/company?”. Be ready with a concise, positive story that frames your decision as a thoughtful move toward something exciting, not just an escape. For example: “After 5 years in finance, I realized that the aspect I loved most was working with people and solving human-centered problems. That led me to take courses in HR management, where I discovered a real passion for recruiting and talent development. I’ve been leveraging my analytical skills from finance along with new HR training, and I’m excited to bring my unique background to a people-focused role.” Notice this kind of answer is honest but upbeat – it doesn’t badmouth the old career (you can acknowledge challenges but spin it to what you learned and what you want next). Practice your career change pitch so you’re comfortable explaining it in person and in writing.
Address potential concerns head-on: If you worry about specific objections (like “Why should we hire you, you haven’t worked in this industry” or “Will you stick with it or jump back?”), think through your responses. Emphasize your commitment to the change and the steps you’ve taken to prepare. You might even have a line in your cover letter about how you’ve been ramping up quickly in the new field and are fully committed to establishing yourself in it. Let them know you bring fresh enthusiasm and are not expecting special treatment – for instance, you can say you’re eager to start at an appropriate level and prove yourself (which addresses the fear some employers have that an older candidate expects a higher salary or position by default).
When you rebrand effectively, you’ll start to get responses to your applications because employers can see the connection between who you are and what they need. It’s about translating your past into the language of your future. Once your resume and profile are ready, it’s time for the big leap: job searching in the new field.
With preparation and rebranding done, you’re ready to start applying and interviewing for roles in your chosen new career. The job search process for a career changer is similar to any job hunt, but here are some strategies to maximize your success:
Target specific roles and companies: Use your research to identify the employers that interest you most. Tailor your applications to each opportunity – generic, scattershot applications won’t be as effective, especially since you’re coming from a different field. It can help to start with roles that are somewhat adjacent to your previous experience or at companies known to be open-minded in hiring. Also consider smaller companies or startups – they can be more flexible in hiring someone who doesn’t check every box if you demonstrate potential and enthusiasm.
Leverage referrals: Whenever possible, apply with a referral or at least make a personal contact before applying. As discussed, networking can get your resume in front of human eyes instead of lost in an Applicant Tracking System. If someone at the company can vouch for you or flag your application, you’ll have a leg up. Use LinkedIn to see if you know anyone (or second-degree connections) at the organization and politely reach out.
Use niche job boards and communities: While large job boards (LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, etc.) are useful, don’t rely solely on them. In fact, one of the best tips for career changers is to focus on niche job boards specific to your target industry or role. Why? Niche job boards attract a more targeted pool of jobs and candidates, meaning less noise and competition for the specific type of role you want. For example, if you’re switching into the tech startup world or SaaS (Software as a Service) industry, a site like The SaaS Jobs will list SaaS-specific roles. Employers posting there are specifically looking for people interested in that sector, which could include more openness to diverse backgrounds. Similarly, there are niche boards for green energy jobs, nonprofit jobs, finance jobs, etc. These boards often feature roles that might not be on the big sites at all. By applying through niche platforms, you stand out more easily and demonstrate that you are tuned in to the industry. A recruiter from a SaaS company scanning candidates on The SaaS Jobs knows every applicant there is serious about SaaS, unlike on a generic site. Quality beats quantity here – it’s better to apply to 5 well-suited jobs on targeted boards than 50 random jobs on a generic board.
Consider recruiters or agencies specialized in your new field: Sometimes staffing agencies or specialized recruiters can help career changers, especially if you have a strong general background. They might know which clients are open to non-traditional candidates. Do some research; for example, if you’re moving into tech, tech recruiting firms might give you advice on positioning and even present you to clients if they believe in you. Just ensure they understand you’re a career changer so they can help mitigate that in their recommendation.
Be patient and persistent: It’s worth repeating – career changes often take longer than a normal job search. You might face rejection or silence initially, especially from companies that are rigid about “required X years of experience.” Don’t be discouraged. You might start by aiming for the exact role you want and find it tough; if so, consider interim steps. Perhaps you take a slightly more junior position or a related role as a stepping stone. For instance, maybe your goal is to be a UX designer, but you land a job as a UI developer first, which gets you into the industry and closer to UX. That’s okay. Each move is progress. Keep applying, keep networking, and keep refining your approach based on feedback. If you’re not getting any responses, maybe have someone in the industry review your resume for jargon/keywords. If you’re getting interviews but not offers, practice your interview skills or get feedback on whether your career change story is convincing.
Use your time wisely: While waiting for responses, continue using your time to add experience (Step 4 never really stops). Maybe take on another freelance project or deepen your skills. Not only does this improve your qualifications, it also keeps you motivated and feeling productive, which is important for morale. Plus, it gives you more to talk about in interviews (“Actually, just last month I completed a project doing X…” shows you’re active and passionate).
Stay flexible and open-minded: As you search, you might discover roles you hadn’t originally considered that could be a good match. Be open to adjacent possibilities. For example, you set out to become a full-time graphic designer, but along the way you find an opening for a marketing coordinator with design duties – that could be a great entry point too. There’s often more than one route to a fulfilling career. The first job you land in your new field might not be your dream job, but it’s a bridge to it.
Finally, remember that your soft skills like communication, attitude, and willingness to learn can shine brightly in the job search process. Many employers hire for attitude and potential, not just past experience. So let your enthusiasm for the new field show in your interactions. Career changers who succeed often impress interviewers with their passion, research, and self-driven learning, which sometimes even outshines candidates who have been in the field but are just “meh” about the job. Use that to your advantage.
Career changing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Someone in their late 20s will approach it differently than someone in their 50s. In this section, we offer tailored advice for various career stages (excluding brand-new graduates, since this guide focuses on those with some work experience):
In your 20s, you’re still early in your professional journey. The good news is that employers generally expect young professionals to do some exploring. A career change in your 20s is often seen as a normal part of finding the right fit. You likely have only a few years of work under your belt (or maybe just internships), so pivoting now can actually be easier in some ways:
Leverage any and all experience: Even if you’ve only held entry-level jobs, think broadly about your experience. Part-time jobs, internships, volunteer work, school projects – these can all demonstrate skills. In your resume and interviews, highlight how those experiences gave you responsibility or skills relevant to your new path. For example, managing a college event could show project management and marketing skills if you’re aiming for an event coordinator role.
Be prepared to start near entry level (again): If you’ve only been in the workforce a couple of years, switching careers might mean you’ll still be in a junior role in the new field. That’s okay – you’re building a foundation. Hiring managers might slot you as a beginner unless your previous experience maps very closely. Don’t be discouraged by job titles; focus on gaining experience. You have decades ahead to climb up. Some employers will expect those changing careers in their 20s to take an entry-level position and work up, though this isn’t always the case. Show that you’re humble, eager, and ready to learn.
Showcase eagerness and adaptability: Younger candidates can make a strength out of being moldable. Emphasize how quickly you can learn and adapt – perhaps share an example of how you picked up a new skill on the fly in a past job or internship. Your age can imply energy and familiarity with new technology or trends, which many employers value. Convince them that investing in training you will pay off because you’re a fast learner who’s in it for the long run.
Highlight any specialized education or relevant coursework: If your college major or courses are relevant to the new field (even if you didn’t major in it), bring that up. For instance, maybe you majored in History but took several computer science classes and did a coding bootcamp after college – you can parlay that into a tech career narrative. Or if you realized after graduating that your true interest is in psychology, mention any classes or certifications you’re pursuing in that area. Show that you’re educating yourself to make up for not starting there initially.
Use your youthful network: Your college alumni network and even professors can be a big help in your 20s. Attend alumni events or reach out to the career center of your university for connections in your new field. Recent grads often have access to resources and willing alumni mentors. Also, friends from school might be in a variety of industries now – let them know you’re looking to change and what you’re looking for.
Don’t apologize for changing your mind: It’s perfectly fine that the first career you picked out of college isn’t the one you want to stick with. Employers won’t be shocked that a 25-year-old is transitioning, as long as you can articulate the why in a positive way. In interviews, focus on the forward-looking reason (what you’re excited about) rather than a negative rant about why your first job wasn’t great. You might say, “I learned a lot in [Job/Industry X] but discovered my passion is actually in [New Field], so I’ve been taking steps to make that switch.”
Overall, career changing in your 20s is about exploration and building initial expertise. You have the advantage of flexibility – you likely can relocate more easily or take a short-term hit in salary since you’re earlier in your financial journey (not everyone, but generally fewer obligations than someone with a mortgage and kids). Use this flexibility to take bold steps if needed, like going back to school full-time or taking a gap to do a bootcamp. Many people in their 20s hop a bit until they find a good path, so you won’t stand out as unusual by doing so.
Your 30s can be prime time for a career change. By now, you’ve accumulated significant work experience (perhaps ~10 years), and you’ve proven yourself in the working world. Maybe you’ve advanced in a line of work but realized it’s not what you want long-term. The advantage in your 30s is you still have a long career ahead (likely 30+ years to work), yet you also have a solid professional foundation to build on.
Here’s how to approach a 30-something career shift:
Clarify what you want from your next job: By your 30s, you probably have a clearer sense of your likes and dislikes at work. Use that to set criteria for your new career. As one career guide suggests, your 20s are for trying different hats and figuring out what you do and don’t like; your 30s are a great time to hone in on a career that aligns with your interests and values. So if your current job lacks creativity and you crave that, you might target a more creative field. If work-life balance is an issue, you might seek a career known for more flexibility. Knowing your priorities helps ensure your second career choice is more satisfying than the first.
Emphasize your professional track record: By this point you likely have demonstrated reliability, work ethic, and an ability to deliver results. That counts for a lot. Make sure prospective employers know that you’re not a typical newbie – you’re a seasoned professional who happens to be pivoting fields. You can say things like “In my 10-year career in finance, I consistently [achieved X] and honed strong analytical and client relationship skills, which I’m now excited to apply in [new field].” Your maturity and work discipline can set you apart from younger candidates. Highlight achievements (even if in another domain) to show you’re an achiever in general.
Leverage transferable leadership or management skills: If you’ve reached a level of leading projects or teams in your current field, that is a huge plus. Companies hiring career changers in their 30s may consider you for slightly more senior entry roles because you have management potential. For example, maybe you were a team lead of engineers and now you’re switching to a product management career – your leadership experience is directly relevant. Even if the industry is new, don’t be shy about selling your ability to mentor, manage budgets, coordinate teams, or handle clients, if those apply.
Balance ambition with realism: By your 30s, you might be used to a certain salary or status. A tough truth of career changing is that you might not step into a role at the exact same level right away. You may need to take a lateral move or even a step down initially. It’s important to be realistic and patient. As noted earlier, some employers might worry that a mid-career changer has “high expectations” – so communicate that you understand you’re switching gears and are prepared to earn your place. You can explicitly state in interviews that you’re willing to start at a lower level and work up, and even take a pay cut if necessary for the career you’re passionate about. Doing so preemptively addresses their concerns. The upside: once you prove yourself, you might rise faster thanks to your prior experience.
Consider financial planning: In your 30s, financial responsibilities can start adding up – maybe a mortgage or a young family. If your career change could affect your income, plan for that. Start saving extra money as soon as you even think you might want to change careers. A larger emergency fund gives you flexibility to maybe go back to school or handle a lower salary for a while. One piece of advice for 30-somethings (and 40-somethings) is to have a “rainy-day fund” that can cover 6+ months of expenses in case the transition period has gaps. This safety net lowers stress and lets you focus on the steps to change rather than panicking about bills.
Time management: Often in your 30s you’re juggling more – maybe family life or increased job responsibilities. Finding time to learn new skills or job search can be challenging. You may need to literally schedule “career change time” into your week. Perhaps two evenings a week you dedicate to taking an online course or sending networking emails after the kids are asleep. It might mean sacrificing some leisure, but it’s a temporary hustle for a long-term benefit. If you have a supportive partner or family, discuss your plans with them – they might help pick up slack in other areas while you work on career change tasks.
Mindset: it’s a marathon, not a sprint: A mid-career change can take months or even a couple of years to fully realize (from initial idea to being settled in a new field). Accept that timeline so you don’t get discouraged early. You might set mini-goals: e.g. In 3 months, finish X certification; in 6 months, attend one professional conference in the new field; in 9 months, start applying for jobs. That way you see progress. “Changing careers will probably feel more like a marathon than a sprint,” one career guide wisely notes. But you will reach the finish if you keep moving.
Many people actually find their stride career-wise in their 30s after a change. The experience you gained in your first career combined with a newfound passion can make you a formidable professional in your new arena.
Making a career change in your 40s is absolutely doable – and quite common. By this time, you may have 20 or more years of work behind you. Perhaps you achieved a lot in one career and now yearn for something new, or circumstances (like industry changes or layoffs) are prompting a switch. The key considerations in your 40s often revolve around balancing the change with personal responsibilities and leveraging your extensive network and experience.
Here are tips specific to career shifting in your 40s:
Acknowledge your priorities and responsibilities: It’s likely you have significant responsibilities now – mortgage, kids approaching college, retirement planning on the horizon. These don’t mean you can’t change careers; they just mean you need to plan around them. For instance, you might opt for a more gradual transition (staying employed while retraining on the side) rather than quitting abruptly. You might also aim for careers that don’t require starting from the bottom rung, if possible, to minimize financial disruption. As one article notes, you may feel you had more “wiggle room” for risk in your 20s, but with planning, a 40s career change can be achieved without overwhelming yourself. It’s about achieving balance – maybe you can’t drop everything to attend a 2-year full-time program because of family needs, but perhaps an evening course or online program over a longer period is workable. Talk to your family about your goals – get them on board with the idea that you might make less money for a little while or be busier juggling work and retraining. Their support (or at least understanding) is important.
Financial readiness: In your 40s, doubling down on financial prep is wise. Grow your rainy-day fund if you can before transitioning. If you have investments or savings, consider how they can buffer you if needed. Also look into whether your current employer offers any educational assistance or sabbatical options; sometimes companies support employees in retraining (especially if it’s an internal move). Plan for worst-case scenarios (e.g. what if it takes a year to get fully re-employed in the new field?). Having a solid financial plan removes a huge layer of stress.
Use your network (even more): By 40s, your personal and professional network is likely the largest it’s ever been – use it! You probably know people across various industries at this point. Don’t be shy to “shake the trees” of your network. Let former colleagues, friends, LinkedIn connections know what you’re aiming for. A friend of a friend might know someone in the new industry who can open a door. At this stage, many jobs (especially higher-level ones) come through referrals. Also, consider joining industry groups if you haven’t already, like local business associations or networking groups – they often have a lot of 40-something professionals who’ve made transitions and can help.
Don’t downplay your experience – reframe it: Age discrimination can be real, but your best defense is to emphasize the value of your experience rather than hide it. For example, showcase the depth of responsibility you’ve handled: budgets, teams, projects, crises – this demonstrates you can handle the new role with maturity and good judgment. A CompTIA guide advises workers in their 50s not to downplay their decades of experience, and the same applies in your 40s. Your experience is an asset, even if it’s not a one-to-one match with the new field. You can say, “I’ve excelled in high-pressure environments and learned how to quickly master new domains – in my last career I progressed from entry level to senior manager, and I plan to bring that drive to this new field.” That reassures employers that you’re not a risky hire; you’re seasoned talent pivoting focus.
Address the “reporting to younger boss” scenario: It’s increasingly common that you might end up working for someone younger after a career change (or even without changing careers!). Hierarchies are fluid. Show that you have no ego about age. In fact, explicitly acknowledging this can be good. You could mention, if appropriate, “I’m excited to collaborate with professionals of all ages and I’m a big believer in learning from everyone – age isn’t a factor for me when it comes to teamwork.” Demonstrating humility and respect goes a long way. In your 50s you should accept that you might report to someone younger and it’s no big deal – get into that mindset in your 40s as well.
Consider “bridge” roles or consulting: In your 40s, another strategy is to leverage consulting or interim work as a transition. Your extensive experience might allow you to consult in your current industry part-time while also starting in a new field. For example, perhaps you consult 20 hours a week in your old field (for income) and spend the rest of the time building a business or working a lower-paying job in your new field. It’s a way to not completely throw away the capital you built in your previous career. Alternatively, some people start a side business in their 40s doing something they love, which eventually grows enough to become their next career (common in cases like turning a side-hustle into a full-time gig).
Show high commitment and passion: Employers might subtly wonder, “Is this person having a mid-life crisis or are they genuinely motivated?” You want to show this career change isn’t a whim – it’s a well-considered move you’re dedicating yourself to. Demonstrating all the work you’ve done (courses, networking, maybe volunteering in the field) signals that you’re serious. Also convey excitement for this next chapter of your career. Enthusiasm can be somewhat rare in mid-career professionals who might be a bit jaded – if you come in with a fresh spirit and a veteran’s resume, that’s a killer combination.
Changing careers in your 40s can actually reinvigorate your work life for the next 20+ years. Many people who switch at this stage say it’s like starting their “second act,” often with more fulfillment. Yes, you have to be mindful of practicalities, but you also have the benefit of wisdom gained over time. You likely know yourself much better at 45 than you did at 25, so you can make a very informed, savvy career choice now.
Career change in your 50s is increasingly common – whether by choice or by necessity (with industries evolving, many find themselves looking for new options later in life). The notion that it’s “too late” is outdated; plenty of people start entirely new careers in their 50s and thrive. That said, transitions at this stage do come with unique challenges like combating age stereotypes and possibly adapting to new technology. Here’s how to navigate a career change in your 50s or early 60s:
Believe that it’s not too late: First, get in the right mindset – you are not too old to reinvent yourself. As we mentioned, lots of folks make successful changes even in their mid-50s or 60s. You may have colleagues or stories in your community of someone who retired from one career and launched another. Draw inspiration from those examples. Having decades of experience can actually make you very attractive in certain roles (for instance, if you become a consultant, clients often prefer someone with long experience). So treat your age as a positive, not something to hide.
Update your tech and online presence: One stereotype about older workers is that they aren’t tech-savvy or visible online. Prove it wrong. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and up-to-date. If you haven’t been active on LinkedIn, now’s the time to build that out – it’s almost expected in modern job searches. Also, familiarize yourself with whatever technologies are common in the field you’re entering. You don’t want a hiring manager to wonder if you’ll struggle with their software or remote work tools. Show proactive learning: maybe take a course on a new digital skill, or simply ensure you’re comfortable with things like video conferencing, collaborative apps, social media (if relevant), etc. This will boost your confidence too.
Emphasize your extensive experience as a strength: As with 40s, don’t shy away from your long career history. Instead, curate it to showcase the most relevant accomplishments. In your resume for a new field, you don’t need to list every job you’ve had since 1985 – you can summarize earlier roles or focus on the last 15-20 years in detail. But where your experience shines (e.g. leadership roles, major projects, crisis management, etc.), make that known. The message should be: “I have seen and done a lot, and that wisdom will be valuable in this new role.” For example, you might say in an interview, “Having led teams through industry ups and downs, I bring a perspective and resilience that will help your organization navigate challenges.” That’s something a 25-year-old simply cannot offer.
Show openness to learning and change: One concern employers might have is that an older candidate is “set in their ways.” You can counteract this by demonstrating a learner’s attitude. Talk about recent things you’ve learned, new skills you’ve picked up, and your excitement for mastering the new field’s knowledge. If you took a class or earned a certification recently, mention how it was engaging to dive into learning again. This signals you’re adaptable and coachable. Also, you might highlight any instances where you successfully worked under younger colleagues or adapted to new trends late in your previous career, to show you’re not stuck in the past.
Consider flexible or alternative roles: In your 50s, you might also consider alternatives to traditional employment if that suits you. Some career changers at this stage choose to start their own small business or become freelancers/consultants in a brand new arena. This can sometimes bypass age bias because you’re marketing directly to clients. For instance, someone who left a corporate job at 55 might start a consultancy or become a real estate agent, using life experience as a selling point. If entrepreneurship appeals to you, evaluate if you can leverage your background in a new way. On the other hand, if you prefer employment, you might look at fields facing talent shortages (healthcare, cybersecurity, skilled trades, etc.), which may be very welcoming to career changers of any age due to high demand.
Network through different channels: By 50s, some of your professional contacts may have retired or moved on, but you also have community networks – neighbors, family friends, association memberships, etc. Let people know you’re looking for a new career chapter. Sometimes local community connections (church, volunteer groups, etc.) can lead to job opportunities in surprising ways. Also, don’t underestimate younger contacts. If you have mentees or younger colleagues who respect you, they might now be in positions to recommend you for roles in their companies.
Mentally prepare for younger colleagues and bosses: As mentioned for 40s, by 50s it’s almost a given some coworkers or superiors will be younger. Go in with a collaborative mindset. Show enthusiasm for teaming up with people of all ages. If you get an interview where everyone is 20 years your junior, don’t let it faze you – focus on connecting as professionals. Many younger managers actually appreciate older team members who bring calm and experience, as long as the dynamic is respectful both ways.
Follow your passion (finally): One great thing about a career change at 50+ is you may feel liberated to pursue something you truly love. Perhaps you’ve achieved plenty and now it’s about personal fulfillment. Lean into that. Let’s say you always wanted to work in a field that “gives back” – now’s a great time to transition into nonprofit or community work. Or if you’ve been in heavy industries and want something lighter, maybe you shift to a consulting role or a creative field. As CompTIA put it, “Your 50s is the perfect time to finally follow your passions and discover your true calling... You only have a few more decades before retirement, so why not go after your dreams with all the gusto you can?”. That sentiment can be very motivating. Many in their 50s describe their career change as rekindling a sense of purpose and excitement they hadn’t felt in years.
In summary, a career change in your 50s is about leveraging wisdom, staying current, and pursuing meaningful work. Yes, there may be challenges, but by approaching it with energy and strategic planning, you can land a new role that makes your final decade(s) of work truly enjoyable and rewarding.
Making a career change is a bold move – and it’s one that can transform not just your work, but your overall happiness in life. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as you contemplate such a shift. The key is to channel that energy into actionable steps and persistent effort. By reading this guide, you’ve armed yourself with knowledge and a roadmap. Now, as the saying goes, “to know and not to do is not yet to know.” In other words, don’t just read about it – start doing it.
Begin with small steps if you need to: browse The SaaS Jobs (or other boards relevant to what you want to pursue), apply to that job, sign up for the class, update your LinkedIn summary. Each step will build momentum. Some days it will feel hard – you might face skepticism or self-doubt. In those moments, remember why you’re pursuing this change. Think about the possibility of waking up in the morning feeling excited to work, feeling proud of what you do, and the example you’ll set for those around you by choosing a path that fits you. This isn’t just about your resume or paycheck; it’s about your life and how you feel each day. As career-change expert Richard Alderson emphasizes, “It’s about how you feel every morning… and, ultimately, it’s about the impact that you can make on the world through being alive in what you do.”.
No matter what stage of career you’re in, you have the capacity to learn, adapt, and contribute in new ways. Companies and industries need people like you – people with diverse backgrounds and the courage to pursue meaningful work. And as you’ve seen from the real examples throughout this report, many others have stood where you stand and successfully made the leap. You can do it too.
So, take a deep breath, envision the career you aspire to, and then start plotting your course toward it. Activate your network, acquire new skills, and put yourself out there. The journey may have its twists, but stay persistent and keep moving forward. In the end, you might find not only a new career, but a renewed sense of purpose and joy in your professional life. Good luck – your new adventure awaits!