Changing careers in your thirties may seem like a foolhardy dFinancial Moves to Make as a Parent in Your Thirtiesecision. After all, if you already spent your 20s investing time and resources in building a career, why change now?
The fact is that between the ages of 35 and 44, people will still change jobs 2.9 times, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics survey. It’s never too late to take your dream job. So, what do you need to do to change careers in your thirties?
Read Also: Tips to Successfully Advance Your Career in Your 30s
Reflect on Where You Are
As dramatic as quitting your job and walking out might be, this is usually a mistake. Changing your career begins with a period of self-reflection. Where are you currently in your career? What are your career values? What do you want to achieve?
You need to make a plan to determine whether changing your career is really the best move for you. Don’t fall for the grass is greener on the other side syndrome.
Examine Your Financial Situation
Perhaps the biggest barrier to changing careers in your thirties is the financial implications. If you already have a family or you have no savings, give serious thought to whether you can survive a period without a regular salary.
Quitting and hoping for the best isn’t good enough. Take an honest look at your finances and how giving up your current career could impact your lifestyle.
Read Also: Financial Moves to Make as a Parent in Your Thirties
Be Willing to Return to Education
While you might have transferable skills, a complete career 360 may require additional qualifications and credentials. You may need to go back to school. With community colleges offering night courses, it may be worth remaining in your current career until you can get the qualifications you need.
Maybe you need to go to law school. Perhaps you need a doctorate in educational psychology. Look up the role you want to be in and examine the required qualifications.
Read Also: Things to Consider When Going Back to School in Your Thirties
Make a Lateral Move
Modern CEOs understand that younger people might want to change careers. Many of them are willing to support these moves for the most talented workers.
Enquire into whether your company would be willing to help you make a lateral move. Switching to a new department could remove much of the disruption involved in quitting your current role and finding a new job.
Some business owners may even be willing to cover the costs of further study.
Volunteer
The issue with changing to a new career is obtaining the experience necessary to qualify for an entry-level position. If you have the time and financial resources, consider volunteering. Approximately 64 million Americans volunteer their time and their talents.
Volunteering work allows you to give back to your community, make a difference, and learn new skills. It could be the launchpad that gets you your dream job.
Conclusion
Age is just a number and millions of Americans change careers in their thirties. There’s nothing wrong with that and businesses are increasingly accepting older workers who have made a career shift.
Changing careers requires sacrifice and a willingness to learn. Take the time to figure out what you need to do and then do it.
