How to Make a Career Change at 40: A Step-by-Step Guide

Gone are the days when people worked in the same sector for their whole working life. Today, in contrast, the median tenure is no longer than five years and there is an increasing number of those who consider a career change at 40. While you might be inspired by intrepid career shifters embarking on a new career journey, it is natural to have some doubts about doing so in your life. If you are wondering how to start a new career at 40, the key lies in breaking the process into manageable steps and setting realistic expectations. Many professionals have proven that midlife is the perfect time to align your work with your passions and values.

We are not trying to convince you to wear rose-colored glasses, put all your fears aside and pretend you can hop from job to job neglecting all life responsibilities. Changing careers at 40 is not a walk in the park easy, and we recognize the challenge. But the challenges don’t necessarily mean you should give up on the idea of taking on a new career, what they do mean is that you need an action plan. 

And the first step in your plan would be to decide whether a career pivot will truly enrich your life. 

Why a Career Change at 40 Can Be a Game-Changer

Learning how to start a new career at 40 can empower you to navigate challenges while leveraging your years of experience. It’s a chance to redefine your purpose, build new skills, and explore industries that resonate with your ambitions. People don’t normally initiate a midlife career change for no reason, all of a sudden. A nagging urge to go down a completely new career path results from dissatisfaction with a current job, burnout at work, or a shift in priorities.

Remember, if you are also not satisfied with your working life and plan a career change in your 40s, you are not alone. A report by  AARP  indicated that professionals aged 40 and above are increasingly transitioning into new industries. The trend is also reflected in  The Bureau of Labor Statistics, which notes that around 25% to 30% of workers change careers at least once in their lives, with many making significant changes in their 40s. 

What are all those career shifters striving to find going down a completely new career path?

Newfound passion

A staggering 80% of people are dissatisfied with their current job, and the main reason is a mismatch between what they think they are good at and what they are currently doing. (International Labor Organization, 2017)  Thus, taking on a new career may ignite a new passion which can become a perfect blend of your talents and work.

Better work-life balance

For many people hitting age 40 working non-stop is no longer a priority. Raising kids, taking care of the elders or just having more free time is often a driving force for starting a new career at 40 and beyond. A well-planned career switch may well help you to generate fulfillment and satisfaction that you need at this stage of life.

Diverse experiences.

Recognizing that a current field is anything but rewarding is a transformative experience that can be a catalyst for change. When your working life drains you of energy, it’s time to explore a new industry where you can reach your highest potential and feel invigorated again.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Careers at 40

Here are some key steps to assist you when considering a career change in midlife. 

Examine your skills and interests

Great news is that you are not a novice in the workforce, and you don’t have to start from scratch. On the contrary, you have years of experience that you can leverage successfully when changing careers at 40. 

• Analyze your interests. 40s bring valuable experience and self-awareness. You understand yourself and your talents more deeply and are able to make an informed decision as to what career will align with your values. But if you think you lack self-knowledge, do step 1

Step 1: Make a list of all activities that you like doing. Don’t miss even the seemingly insignificant spheres of your interests. Reflect on your childhood and write down things that you used to spend your time on. Examine the list: there must be something that will click and help you to reignite professional enthusiasm.

• Reflect on your transferable skills. Having worked for 15–20 years, you already possess professional wisdom and experience that might come in handy in establishing a new career. 

Step 2. Identify the transferable skills required for your dream job and the ones you can leverage during the transition process. If there is a significant gap between your strengths and the skills required, move to steps 6 and 7.

Explore possible career paths

Once you’ve identified your skills, the next logical step is to investigate potential directions:  because a career switch at 40 is not something that can be left to chance. Much as you might want to dive head-first into your new career, there is a lot of unknown to work through before the leap.

• Research industries. Identify industries that align with your interests and require skills you already have. Consider judiciously what career path you can switch to realistically: say, a career as a surgeon should be dismissed as off the table, however appealing it can be.

Step 3. Explore job boards. LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor may provide you with the insights into industries, demanding skills and common requirements.

• Gather information. Vet the desired career as thoroughly as you can before you pivot. By doing so, you are more likely to have a set plan in place before you give up your current job.

Step 4. Reach out to professionals in the industry of your interest. Ask them about their experience and required skills, or read everything you can get your hand on about a new career.

Step 5. Attend industry events. When an opportunity presents itself, participate in webinars and online events to get valuable information.

Upskill and reskill for a career switch

With a clear understanding of your skills, it’s time to focus on enhancing your qualifications. It is a crucial, yet the most challenging step towards a midlife career change. We are neither school-leavers nor dedicated students and therefore full-time education is a luxury we can’t afford. 

But don’t let this fact become a stumbling block to landing your dream job. Examine various training options available in your situation.

• Take online courses. We live in a digital era, so why not take advantage of the opportunities it offers? Once you know what skills you need to change careers, it will be much easier to navigate education programs.

Step 6. Research various online learning platforms, such as  LinkedIn Learning, that offer courses in your area of interest. Give preference to platforms that provide certifications. 

Step 7. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your new qualifications and boost your appeal when applying for jobs.  

• Go part-time. Obviously, 40s bring not only experience but also increased responsibilities; therefore, quitting a job for the sake of education and consequently losing a livelihood would be an ill-advised career move. 

For a smoother transition to a new career, fortysomethings should consider their personal life situations to make decisions that suit them.

Step 8. Balance your commitments. Ensure your schedule allows for a healthy balance between professional development, work, and personal life. Consider going freelance, taking on a part-time university or getting an apprenticeship. Gradually increase your involvement in a new field without leaving your current job until it is safe to resign.

Build up a network of connections

Other people may provide you with insights into a new industry, offer first-hand advice and assist you in your new journey. Start building up your contacts as soon as you've decided to start a new career - investing in networking always pays off.

Step 9.  Be open about your plans; share with your family and friends that you’re starting a new career. This step can help you to have initial connections that might be beneficial in getting your foot in the door.

Find a mentor

One will obviously excel faster in a new industry under the supervision of an experienced person. If possible, try to find an expert willing to help you with your career transition. Not only will you have outside support by doing so, but you will also be provided with specific and actionable advice, so you won’t waste time on adapting general knowledge to your situation.

Step 10. Select Miranna’s mentoring option or career coaching.  With career coaching by Miranna you won’t stumble upon identifying your strengths, developing effective interviewing strategies or navigating  the job search process. When changing careers at 40 there is no time for a long trial and error process. Reach out to one of Miranna’s mentors - they are experts who have succeeded in a sphere of your interest -  and employ their tailored tips for your professional pathway. 

Overcoming Common Challenges of Changing Careers at 40

Despite careful planning, many face challenges that can hinder a career change at 40+. Let’s take a look at the most common obstacles that prevent people from a midlife career change.

Ageism 

Some 40-year-old career shifters tend to procrastinate over applying for jobs for fear of facing age discrimination in the workplace.  While ageism is still well and alive in our society, you’d be better off changing the game and showcase your assets to prove your potential contribution to an organization.

Financial concerns

Money is cited by 62% of respondents as a barrier to advancing their careers (International Labor Organization, 2017) It is true that unwise actions and hasty decisions may result in financial implications, and it’s important to consider these factors in the planning phase.

Self-doubt

Struggling with career change, people often stumble upon the lack of self-confidence. Unfortunately, confidence doesn’t suddenly strike and there always will be challenges that make you doubt yourself. However, by consistently taking small steps and executing your plans, you can build your confidence, become more competitive and attain your career goals. 

We’ll be happy to assist you in this stage of your life. Together, we’ll develop actionable plans, break them down into manageable steps and tackle specific challenges. Miranna's coaching sessions can provide you with the tools you need to successfully manage the transition to your dream career.

Why It’s Never Too Late to Change Careers

Changing careers at 40 is a courageous step toward a more fulfilling life. If you find yourself thinking, 'It’s too late to change careers at 40,' consider this: you will inevitably be 40, 45, 50… and beyond. Isn’t it better to try creating an inspiring life than leaving things as they are?  Embrace this opportunity for growth, and remember that with the right guidance and support, you can create a future that excites you.

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