6 Steps to a Successful Career Change After 50

Changing careers in your 50s can be scary. Maybe you’ve been in your current organization for a long time or doing the same type of work all your life. However, as you get older it is not uncommon to seek change. You may want a more fulfilling job, need a new challenge, or feel burned out in your current role. Whatever the reason, a career change can be overwhelming to navigate. However, understanding and leveraging your unique strengths can make the transition smoother and lead to a more fulfilling career, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

What is CliftonStrengths?

CliftonStrengths is an assessment that helps people identify their natural gifts and strengths. The assessment consists of 34 items and includes a report that ranks your 34 strengths in order of intensity. By understanding your unique strengths, you can take the time to focus on what you do best at work instead of what you’re not so great at.

Step 1: Identify your strengths

The first step to using your CliftonStrengths to change careers after 50 is this identify they By understanding your natural talents and skills, you can identify the types of roles and responsibilities that would be a career fit for you. Take the CliftonStrengths assessment to discover your core strengths.

Step 2: Explore career options

Once you’ve identified your strengths, start exploring career options that match them, or consider how your strengths match up with a career that interests you.

For example, if one of your main strengths is Empathy, you might consider a career in counseling or social work. If Analytical is in your top five or 10, you might consider a career in data analysis or financial planning.

Examine each job description from the perspective of your strengths and ask yourself, “Would I be able to use my strengths in this role?” If you cannot answer a yes, that role may not be the best fit for you. Ultimately, you’ll be more energized, engaged, and motivated if you apply what comes naturally to your next task.

Step 3: Assess your skills and experience

After identifying career opportunities, assess your current skills and experience to determine if there are any gaps you can address. Consider taking classes, participating in workshops, or volunteering in your desired field to gain relevant experience and skills.

Step 4: Network and make connections

Networking is a crucial aspect of any career change, and it can be especially important for people over 50. Attend networking events, connect with professionals in your field on LinkedIn, and reach out to friends and family you can connect with whenever you want. zone.

And consider reaching out to those closest to you and asking, “What roles could I see you excel in? Where do you think I could best use my strengths?” Your closest connections know you better than anyone and can give you great advice on your next career choice.

Step 5: Update your resume and cover letter

Highlight your relevant skills and experience, emphasize how your strengths can contribute to your desired field, and be truly confident to know and understand your strengths before submitting your resume and going into an interview. Taking the CliftonStrengths assessment is only the first step — you need to talk specifically about what makes your strengths unique to you.

Consider adding your strengths to your resume. Doing so will give you an opportunity to explain how your strengths manifest day-to-day and why they make you a great fit for the position. Think about how your strengths help you and how you plan to apply them in your new role.

Step 6: Stay positive and persistent

Changing careers can be a difficult and long process, but it is important to be positive and persistent. Keep a positive attitude, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice along the way. Don’t give up — securing a career that allows you to do what you do best every day is worth it for your long-term health and well-being.

Using the CliftonStrengths assessment to identify your natural gifts and strengths helps you find a career that aligns with your interests and values ​​and gives you a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Remember to stay positive, stay committed and build on your strengths to help you achieve your goals.