MORE and more of us are making career changes later in life.
The rising pension age and pressures of the current economic climate are encouraging the over-50s to embrace change and pursue new careers.
According to the experts, switching jobs is now a part of life for older workers rethinking how they approach their careers for financial reasons.
“The pressures have forced many of them to take on new training, with the realisation that being 50 could still mean having a 30-year career in front of you,” said Aberdeen economist David Gibbons Wood, of Robert Gordon University.
“Figures show the number of older people facing unemployment was at a 10-year high in August and many are responding by considering a career change.”
Simon North, of careers advisory firm Position Ignition, said increased flexibility in the workplace means there are more opportunities than ever for older workers.
“The government’s plans to scrap the default retirement age in a year, allowing individuals to work beyond the age of 65, will also throw up a new dynamic in the workforce as more and more decide they can’t afford to retire,” said Simon.
“Being able to choose when to retire gives people more control over their careers than they had. How these older workers are managed will be the key.”
Meanwhile, a recent survey by Barclay Wealth shows the desire to carry on working in Britain is higher than in other European countries, and it’s not just for financial reasons.
Plans include a preference to carry on working, start a new business or projects.
Today, people change job an average of seven times more compared to 20 years ago, and the rate is rising.
According to Aberdeen company Thorpe Molloy Recruitment (TMR), there are many reasons for this, ranging from finding work boring to changes in technology, industry downturn or lack of public-sector funding.
Amanda McCulloch, of TMR, says it’s important to take time and think carefully about a career change, remembering you might need a change of employer.
“That’s not taking the easy option; going through interviews and finding a new employer can be a stressful process, but it is sure to be less frustrating and probably less costly than a career change,” said Amanda.
“However, whether it is changing career or company, you need to take time to be really honest with yourself to know what you want, what are your likes and dislikes, what you’d change if you could and what you are happy to accept.”
She also advises on doing your homework.
“Take time to do the groundwork; take career advice from professionals and from people who know you well,” said Amanda.
“With clear objectives you will be in a stronger position to look for a new company and the right fit for you.
“You can increase the odds of having career stability by thinking very carefully before accepting a job offer.
“Consider what you want from a new job – is it a stepping stone in your career, your ultimate dream job or a way of learning new skills?
“If your heart isn’t really in it and you accept a job to pay the bills, you’re bound to move on when a better offer comes along.
“It’s important to make the most of the interview process, and not to be afraid to ask questions.
“The answers will be crucial in helping you decide if this is the right job, employer or culture for you and will help you be as prepared as you possibly can be for a new job.”
When you’ve decided what you want from your career, making the most of the opportunities that come your way can make for a very rewarding working life.”