Just before the economic downturn of ‘08/’09, I had thoughts of leaving financial services sales and relationship management for a return to a field I’d only previously dabbled in - human resources. I connected with HR professionals in my network and even talked with my manager. Closed mouths don’t get fed and I had a great relationship with him, so I spoke up for what I wanted my career to look like. I was crystal clear and, with time, I became super confident. 

When I partner with clients who desire a career change, I lean on that experience and the experiences of countless others who I’ve supported as they transitioned from one career to another. With that in mind, if you’re considering a career change in your 30s or 40s, please know you’re not alone. Many women reach a point in their careers where they realize it’s time for something new—whether it’s the result of burnout, a desire for more fulfillment, or simply the need for a change. 

Let’s chat about it for a moment…..

1. Get to Know Yourself

Before making any big moves, take some time to really understand who you are now. A lot changes as we get older—our priorities, our strengths, and sometimes even our passions. This is the perfect time to do a strengths assessment like the one I have my clients complete or a personality test to get clear on what you bring to the table. Are you a natural leader? A creative problem-solver? Knowing your strengths will help you find a role that aligns with who you are today, not who you were ten years ago. It also increases your confidence as you move forward in this transition with new language to articulate your value. 

2. Research Your Desired Career

You might have a new career path in mind, but how much do you really know about it? Take the time to dig deep and learn as much as possible about the industry, the typical roles, and what’s required to succeed. This isn’t just about Googling job descriptions—talk to professionals in that space, attend industry events, and follow thought leaders on LinkedIn. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to make the switch.

3. Network, Network, Network

Now please fix your face! So many think of networking as an awful word and please trust me…it’s not! Networking is key when transitioning careers, especially in your 30s and 40s. Use your existing connections to learn about opportunities in your desired field. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people for informational interviews or coffee chats—you never know where a conversation might lead. And remember, LinkedIn isn’t just a job board; it’s a powerful networking tool. Start connecting with people in your desired industry and engage with their content to stay on their radar. 

Now that I’ve said that, did you know one thing that was missing? I’m not suggesting you go to networking events at all. I’m talking about a strategic approach that involves nurturing genuine connections. My clients are often surprised by the results once they start implementing our networking strategy. 

If you’ve read this far and you’re thinking it might be time to have a conversation with someone about your next steps, click here to put some time on my calendar. I’m more than happy to listen and make suggestions as needed. 

4. Acknowledge Life’s Changes

Let’s be real—a lot changes in our 30s and 40s, and it’s not just about our careers. You might be dealing with family responsibilities, financial pressures, or even the onset of perimenopause. IYKYK! 

All of these factors can impact your career decisions. It’s important to acknowledge where you are in life and factor that into your career change plan. What do you need from a job right now? Flexibility? Stability? A bigger paycheck? Be honest with yourself about what you can handle and what you need. Knowing your non-negotiables is extremely important in this journey. 

5. Find a Mentor or Career Coach

Making a career change on your own can feel overwhelming. I didn’t go about my career change without guidance from professionals in and out of my industry. Not sure it would have been as smooth as it was had I not reached out for support.

That’s where a mentor or career coach can make all the difference. A mentor in your desired field can offer insider advice and help you navigate the transition. A career coach can provide personalized guidance, help you clarify your goals, and create a step-by-step plan to get there. Don’t be afraid to seek out the support you need—this is a big change, and you don’t have to do it alone.

6. Be Clear on the Roles You Want

When changing careers, it’s so important to be clear on the types of roles you’re targeting. Don’t just apply to any job that seems like a fit—be intentional. What kind of work will make you excited to get out of bed in the morning? What roles align with your strengths and values? Once you’re clear on what you want, you’ll be better equipped to communicate your transferable skills and why you’re the perfect fit for the role. This will come in handy as you update your resume, interview for roles, and negotiate your offer. 

7. Communicate Your Transferable Skills with Confidence

Speaking of transferable skills, this is an area where a lot of career changers struggle. When you’re transitioning to a new career, employers will want to know how your past experience applies to the new role. Be ready to clearly articulate how your skills, experience, and achievements are relevant to the role and the organization’s goals. Confidence is key here—if you believe in your ability to succeed in a new field, others will too. :)

8. Take Action with a Plan

A career change is a big deal, and it requires a solid strategy. Once you’ve done your research, networked, and identified your target roles, create a step-by-step action plan. What courses do you need to take? Who should you connect with? What’s your timeline for making the switch? Breaking down the process into manageable steps will make it feel less overwhelming and more achievable.

So now what?

Ready to make your career change a reality? Be sure to download my free checklist to help you stay on track. It includes all the key steps we’ve talked about and more to ensure your transition is smooth and successful. Click here to download your free Career Change Checklist and join my email community, where I share job search tips, resume writing advice, interview strategies, and so much more.