Lots of seasoned professionals decide to pursue a career change at 40. With two decades of work experience behind you, and another two decades ahead of you, this is the ideal time to reflect and refocus on your career. Do you feel dissatisfied in your current role at work? Perhaps a different career will increase your sense of purpose and productivity. Read on for key tips and strategies for career changers so that you can feel prepared during this transition.

Should you change careers at 40?

Career changes at 40 can seem intimidating. You likely have more financial responsibilities than you did when you were in your 30s and changing careers means stepping outside of your comfort zone. 

Yes, there are likely more financial considerations, such as a mortgage and kids, but remember, you are a seasoned professional with rich employment history and transferable job skills. You have a lot to offer a new industry! 

Instead of worrying about whether or not changing careers is a good idea, start reflecting thoughtfully on ideal careers to start at 40.

Benefits of starting a new career at 40

There are many benefits to starting a new career at 40. Now that you have more experience, you have a much better idea of your likes, dislikes, and talents than you did when you first entered the workforce. You also have a better understanding of your ideal schedule and lifestyle. In short, you know what you want, need, and expect from a job. 

Here are some benefits of starting a new career at 40:

  • Increased work satisfaction
  • A renewed sense of purpose and passion
  • A healthier lifestyle
  • Increased opportunities for personal and professional growth

Your age and work experience will also grant you several advantages. For one, you will have lots of transferable skills and higher levels of confidence. You will also have a mature professional network. 

Never underestimate the potential of networking! Now that you are in your 40s, your colleagues and peers are likely in leadership and decision-making roles. Perhaps they are hiring managers. Use this to your advantage!

Challenges of starting a career at 40

Changes are never easier, especially when it comes to your career. While there are certainly advantages to starting a new career at 40, there are also challenges.

Here are some potential challenges to keep in mind as you consider a midlife career change: 

  • Increased financial responsibilities, such as a mortgage and kids
  • Not having the time or resources to go back to school
  • Having to take time off from work during this transition
  • Having to work full-time or part-time while navigating a career change
  • Self-doubt

What should you know before changing careers at 40

Reflect critically on your current situation. What do you hope to gain from a new career? Could you reach your goals by staying in your current career and making a smaller change, such as seeking an alternative employer? Consider tips on how to stay motivated at work and signs of a toxic work environment as you make your decision. 

The best midlife career changes take lots of factors into account, including transferable job skills, employment history, finances, scheduling, and more. There are plenty of options for new careers at 40. Make sure, however, that you are up for the challenge. Changing careers is challenging but rewarding work. In this article, we will review key strategies and tips for how to change careers in your 40s. 

01

Identify your goals

There are plenty of reasons to want to change careers. Reflect thoughtfully on your reasons. What are your career goals? No career is perfect. Are there ways you can reach your goals without changing careers? Ultimately, what factors are at the root of your decision? Make a detailed list of pros and cons as you focus on finding a new career.

02

Identify transferable skills

If you are starting a new career at 40, you may not necessarily have the time or financial resources to go back to school. This is why it is important to identify transferable job skills. Your transferable skills and work experience may also set you apart so you can focus on applying for more meaningful positions and avoid having to apply to entry-level positions.

Some examples of skill sets include leadership, negotiation, project management, networking, organizational, and communication skills. Other important soft skills include teamwork, patience, and time management.

As a job seeker, when you apply for a new job, tailor your resume and cover letter. Be sure to update your LinkedIn profile and include lots of keywords from each job description. This will help ensure that your resume is optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Also, be sure to stress your existing skillset during job interviews.

03

Get ready for a potential pay cut

Even with years of work experience, you will likely receive a pay cut, at least initially. Be mentally and physically prepared for this. Make sure your finances are in order before a career pivot. This might mean staying in your current position a bit longer as you reflect on your best plan for moving forward.

A potential pay cut is an important factor to reflect on. Be sure to include this on your list of pros and cons as you consider a new career path. Comparing career options can be exciting and liberating, but remember, you have to be realistic. Do your best to make a responsible, grounded decision that takes multiple factors into consideration such as healthcare, mortgage payments, work-life balance, and personal satisfaction.

04

Reflect on your finances

Again, finances are a crucial factor during any job search. Can you afford to change careers right now? Will there be additional expenses? For instance, will you have to go back to school or earn a certification? Does your new career require you to learn new skills?

If you don’t have the money to go back to school, this doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t pursue a new career, especially if you feel like you are currently in the wrong career. Rather, make a plan for yourself. Make a detailed budget, consider additional revenue streams, and come up with a realistic schedule and timeline. Although not ideal, the reality is that you may need to continue working full-time or part-time as you transition from your current job to your dream job. 

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05

Cultivate confidence

Once you make your decision to pursue a new career, it’s important to cultivate confidence! Take this time to expand your professional network and surround yourself with positive, ambitious, innovative people. Use their stories and momentum as inspiration!

For example, if you want to start your own business, seek out other entrepreneurs who’ve started a successful business during their 40s. Ask them for career advice. Networking opportunities are key when building a successful career.

How to change careers at 40: 5-step guide to starting a new career at 40

01

Make the decision

Reflect thoughtfully on your current career and job position. What do you like and dislike about your career? What do you wish was different? Making a career change at 40 is a serious commitment. You need to be certain of your decision. You cannot afford to be indecisive. Take your time making your initial decision, but once you do indeed make your decision, commit fully.

02

Identify possibilities

What jobs interest you? Research your options and reach out to professionals in your prospective field. Schedule informational interviews. An informational interview is when you sit down with a professional and ask them to reflect candidly on their career and offer career advice. You may also consider arranging a job shadow. After all, if you need to commit fully to a new career, you want to be as prepared as possible.

03

Update your resume

Update your resume. Review professional resume templates and resume formats. You may even consider using a professional resume maker. Make sure you use lots of keywords and ensure that your resume is optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Also, be sure to update your LinkedIn profile. Do not underestimate the potential of your online presence. Lots of job recruiters use LinkedIn.

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04

Expand your network

A robust professional network is a powerful tool. Use every available opportunity to network and forge meaningful contacts and connections. This will help you find job opportunities that otherwise may not be available to you. Attend job fairs, conferences, and professional conventions.

05

Practice mock interviews

It’s important to have strong interviewing skills. You need to be able to talk about your career, passions, skill set, and past successes with confidence. Win over potential employers. You likely have a lot to offer a new company and it is crucial to be able to communicate this in a job interview setting. Therefore, take this time to review key job interview questions, strategies, and tips.

25 best careers to start at 40

What is the best career to start at 40? It depends on your interests, passions, and existing job skills. That said, there are lots of popular ideas for new careers at 45 or best second careers after 40.

Below we have listed some of the most popular, best career change jobs at 40 for you to peruse. Take a look and start brainstorming!

  • Real estate agent
  • Proofreader
  • Freelance writer
  • Translator
  • Consultant
  • Job Recruiter
  • Social media manager
  • Project or program manager
  • Administrative assistant
  • Human resources manager
  • Retail or restaurant manager
  • Event planner
  • Entrepreneur
  • Patient care technician
  • Dental assistant
  • Massage therapist
  • Life coach
  • Therapist
  • Personal trainer
  • Online teacher or tutor
  • Hairstylist
  • Esthetician
  • Dietician
  • Yoga teacher
  • Graphic designer

Do any of these job titles catch your eye? Lots of professionals in their 40s have found fulfilling new careers from this list. 

Reflect thoughtfully on your past jobs. What did you like and dislike about each of them? What are some of your talents? 

Now, do any of your answers overlap with these 25 potential careers? If so, start a deep dive and explore each of the careers that piques your interest. 

Final points on making a career change at 40

A career transition is often an exciting time full of change and potential. There are lots of steps and factors to consider. Take every available opportunity to expand your professional network and forge meaningful connections. You may even consider hiring a career coach as you move forward.

FAQs

Still have questions? Below are some frequently asked questions and answers. Review each question and answer below for key takeaways and insights. 

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Senior year of high school is an exciting time full of possibilities! There is a lot to think about in terms of classes, careers, and colleges. It’s an important time to make memories, have fun, and reflect on your plans for your future.

In this article, we will discuss 10 pieces of advice for high school seniors (12th graders). Start your senior year feeling prepared! Know what to expect as you move forward during this pivotal year.

1. Spend time with family and friends

Senior year is an important time to make memories and spend time with the people (and pets!) you love. Regardless of whether or not you decide to go to college, or move away from your hometown, senior year is a big transition. Rely on your loved ones for support as you navigate your senior year. Family members will likely have valuable senior year advice for you as well. Focus on spending quality time with your loved ones, strengthening your relationships, and sharing memories.

2. Start college applications early

College applications can be stressful. They require a lot of research and reflection – on top of preparing the actual application materials. Some helpful senior year advice: Start your college applications early! Especially your college essay. Brainstorm topics, write several drafts, and seek out feedback from peers, parents, and teachers. This will allow you to take your time to edit your applications materials, prioritize, and limit stress. Be sure to ask for your letters of recommendation early as well. This is an important senior year tip! Teachers can get overwhelmed by the number of requests they receive, so make sure you give them plenty of time to plan ahead.

3. AP classes look good on college applications and can help you save money

AP classes look impressive on your college application. They show that you are capable of completing advanced coursework and are ready for college-level material. If you are applying to highly-selective schools, AP classes give your application a competitive edge. Additionally, if you score well on your AP exams, you will likely receive college credit (check with your individual college for specifics). College credits are expensive, so this will help you save a lot of money in the long-run!

4. Take interesting classes

Take interesting electives. High school is a time to explore, so take this time to try something new! Take a pottery class. Or a robotics class. Chinese. Dance. Painting. You might discover something you really enjoy. You might also choose to take more classes with teachers you already know and love.

5. Learn to balance your social life and academics

While you should enjoy your senior year, spend time with friends, meet new people, and attend events, it’s also important not to slack off. “Senioritis” can feel very real. One of the most important tips for high school seniors is to avoid procrastination and maintain their academic standards. Senior year should be fun, but it’s also an important transition point. Whether you are attending college or entering the workforce, it’s important to feel motivated and prepared for your next step. Learning to balance your social life and academics is key to success, both in and outside of high school.

6. A college rejection letter isn’t the end of the world

Receiving a college acceptance letter is exciting and validating! You should celebrate each and every one. You worked hard and it’s nice to see that hard work recognized. A college rejection letter, however, shouldn’t feel like the end of the world. Colleges can be highly-selective, and not getting accepted into a program doesn’t necessarily mean you aren’t qualified; it just means that there is a very large applicant pool. There is a lot of pressure put on you during your senior year and there are lots of tips for high school seniors. Mostly though, it’s important to remember that graduating high school and applying for college is hard work! So try to be gentle with yourself.

7. Talk to your guidance counselor, teachers, and coaches

Ask adults you trust and admire about advice for seniors in high school. What worked for them? Do they wish they had done anything differently? Are they happy with their career? Did they go to college? Senior year is an exciting time with endless possibilities. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Take time to reflect on what’s important to you and what you think you might want to do in the long run. It’s okay if you don’t know! Take a year off to work, travel, or volunteer, and keep in mind that many college students change their majors. You don’t need to know all the answers. It’s good and healthy to periodically change your mind. In the meantime, don’t be afraid to ask your guidance counselor, teachers, or coaches about advice for senior year of high school.

8. Tour colleges

If you have the opportunity to tour a college, take it! You can learn a lot about a college by researching it online, but sometimes seeing it in person can help you make the final call of where you can see yourself being the happiest and most comfortable during college. Tour as many colleges as you can, so you can make your final decision feeling as confident as possible. 

9. Sit in on college classes and job shadow

Not everyone knows what they want to do after college, and many students who think they do, end up changing their minds. Some good advice for seniors in high school is to consider sitting in on some college classes and seeking out job shadowing opportunities. There are countless career paths available, so take some time to research and explore your options. Attend a job fair. Take a career test. Talk to professionals and get a glimpse of what a typical day might look like for you in your prospective field.

10. Try new things

Step out of your comfort zone! Graduate high school without any regrets. Is there a club you’ve always wanted to join? Someone you always wanted to be friends with? A class you’ve been interested in taking? Take a moment to think about whether there is anything you’ve wanted to try, but haven’t had the time, or the nerve, for. High school is a great time to try new things, so challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone!

Key Takeaways

Work hard your senior year and have fun! Take time to reflect on possibilities for your future and seek out additional resources to make smart, post-high school decisions. Ask your peers and trusted adults in your life about your goals and anxieties. If you feel like you could benefit from professional, individualized attention, reach out to learn about our college counseling and guidance services.