If you're wondering how to change career paths at any age, you'll be happy to learn that the forecast looks bright! Indeed, a recent poll indicates an uptick in those seeking a change. According to the data, more than half of Americans are considering a job change in 2024. 

The reasons for pursuing a career change vary from the desire to increase wages, a better work-life balance, or stagnation in the current job. If you are among those dreaming of greener pastures in the workplace and see yourself leaping into a new career, you'll want to be prepared so that you land firmly where you want to be. 

Consider this seven-step guide to change your career at any age:

Step 1: Self-Assessment and Reflection

What Motivates You?

Before you begin the career change journey, you'll want to do a self-assessment that helps you determine your primary motivation for wanting a change. To help you brainstorm ideas, list ten things in a job that are most important to you. If you are just getting started, you'll benefit from using self-assessment tools that help you identify the best career options for job satisfaction.

Build a List of Your Skills and Interests

Start your career planning by listing your current skills and interests. You'll want to consider your entire work history and past jobs where you may have gained additional skills or knowledge that should be included in your self-evaluation. Add your interests to a separate column to see how your overall skills parallel your current interests. Consider every job you've had - even the part-time gigs - to maximize your career potential.

Step 2: Research and Explore New Career Options

Research the current job market. Search industries that are expected to grow by more than 20% in the next decade. If you haven't used that Bachelor of History degree you earned years ago, consider joining the digital world of education, which is predicted to grow more than 20% by 2030. Suppose you are computer savvy and dream of becoming a freelancer. In that case, you'll be happy to know that the tech market for software developers is expected to remain steady, with forecasted growth of more than 25% by 2031. 

After researching the industries or career paths you're interested in, you should start researching online job sites such as Indeed to assess the job market and availability. Don't forget to build your profile on LinkedIn if you haven't already. 

Step 3: Upskilling and Education

After you've assessed your skills and level of education in Step 1, you may realize that changing career paths requires more than you can offer. Don't let this deter you from pursuing the career you want. Research what education or training you need and explore college courses or online technical/trade schools. 

My massage therapist recently changed careers after she and her husband decided that they wanted to start a family and have more time at home. She enrolled in an online technical school, and within a year, she landed a job doing exactly what she wanted to do. 

Step 4: Networking and Building Connections

Leverage Your Existing Network

Here's another good reason to make a list. Name every one you know within your community, such as friends, colleagues, acquaintances, and neighbors. Let them know you're interested in a career change. 

Expand Your Network

Expand your network by joining online forums or local clubs and mixers within your range of interests. If you live in a metropolitan area or near a large city, you might want to check out MeetUp.com. 

Consider A Mentorship

If you are considering a significant career change, such as launching a start-up business, why not seek a mentor to help you decide and learn? 

Step 5: Updating Your Resume and Online Presence

Revamp Your Resume

Now is the right time to scrub your resume and boost it with keywords. Consider the analytical skills that you gained in your previous job. If you were a business analyst, list that under the "skills" heading on your resume. Avoid lengthy or repetitive descriptions under job headings. 

Create a Personal Brand

Think of yourself as unique—because you are—and build a personal brand around that idea. If you've spent most of your career as an educator and are looking for a career change but want to share your expertise under a different platform, consider corporate training. 

Step 6: Gaining Experience and Building Credibility

Start with Freelance or Part-Time Work

Become a freelancer and start building your portfolio with small assignments you can showcase on social media. Take a course at your local community college to get a headstart on learning more about the job you hope to do full-time. 

Seek Internships or Apprenticeships

An internship or apprenticeship is another beneficial means of gaining valuable career/job knowledge. Not only do internships often lead to permanent positions, but they also help build a resume showcasing relevant experience. According to a 2022 report in the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 68% of interns landed a full-time job with the organizations or companies where they interned. 

Step 7: Applying for Jobs and Preparing for Interviews

Tailor Your Applications

When filling out applications, be sure to tailor them to the job that you are seeking. Highlight specific skills that set you apart from the rest for relevant job responsibilities. 

Prepare for Interviews

Brush up your interviewing skills by practicing your responses to questions. Get in front of a mirror or role-play with a family member or friend. 

Highlight Transferable Skills

One of the most important things you can do when building your resume and preparing for an interview is highlighting transferable skills. Remember, these are cross-industry, cross-functional skills you have gained throughout your career.

Follow the Steps

Making a career change doesn't have to be daunting; especially if you're unsure of your next step. Use this guide as a source for planning your next career move or take this quiz if you're trying to decide what's next. Plan ahead, do your research, and seek mentors when you need them. You'll be one step in the right direction and making your career dreams a reality.