Should you change jobs at 60? I faced the same question a few years ago. It was early fall in 2019, and the pandemic hadn’t yet set in. I had a comfortable job working for a corporation, but it was far from fulfilling. Sure, I could ride out a few more years to full retirement age, but I wanted (and needed) a change. So, I pursued a new career path that allowed me to reach my financial goals at a more fulfilling job. I’ve never regretted it.
It’s not too much of a stretch to say over the years, I’ve become somewhat of a career change expert. I’d reinvented my career before. In my 20s and 30s, I was a skilled drafting technician and machinist. Then, in my late 30s, I became a full-time speaker and consultant for nonprofits and small businesses. I did that for more than a decade till an illness in our family caused us to move, and I took a corporate job in my 50s.
Then, at 60 plus, I took my experience, knowledge, and skills and began a new career as a content creator for a SaaS company. And I love it. You can read more about my story here.
Now Might Be The Best Time to Change Careers
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the number of Americans quitting their jobs in October was 4.2 million, which is lower than the previous month but still higher than usual. The U.S. job market has a record number of job openings and a historically low unemployment rate. That may be good news for workers who are looking for new opportunities in the labor force.
But, it poses challenges for employers trying to fill open positions. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that 60% of employed adults ages 60 and older would consider changing jobs if they had the opportunity. That’s compared with just 42% of younger workers ages 18 to 29. The good news is that older workers may have more options than others in this tight labor market. So, if you’re in your 60s, now might be the best time to change careers.
Why Older Workers Have An Advantage
As an older adult, you have the edge. By the time you reach your 60s, you likely have a wealth of experience that can apply to a new career. You’ve also developed valuable skills that you’ve acquired on the job. And, you have talents that your current employer either can’t use or has overlooked. Plus, you’ve acquired tons of knowledge that will make you an asset in a new field. Employers are often willing to overlook ageism when they see someone with lots of relevant experience.
What it Takes to Change Jobs at 60
There are a few things to consider when doing a job search after you turn 60 years old. Your experience, your skill set, and your ability to adapt to new technologies and change are all factors in getting hired at this stage in your life.
Leaving Your Comfort Zone Behind
If you’re ready to change careers, then you’ll need to get out of your comfort zone. When changing jobs at 60, it’s essential to have a plan and organize your job search. This means you’ll need to explore new career options.
So, it might be a good idea to talk to a career counselor or schedule an informational interview. Informational interviews are an excellent way to learn about a new industry and the challenges you may face. And, informational interviewing can help you learn additional job search tips and allow you to make connections with people who might help you in your job search. With a little effort, you should be able to find a job that’s right for you.
How to Change Jobs at 60
It’s never too late to plot a new career path, and there are several ways you can get started even at 60.
First, you’ll need to take some time to assess what you want out of a new career. Now, ask yourself, what are your interests and technology skills?
Next, focus on what kind of work you want to be doing. You can use this information to help narrow down your career options and job search.
Then, you’ll want to do some research on careers that interest you. It’s a good idea to talk to people who are already working in these fields or look up information online. This will give you a better idea of what the day-to-day requirements of that new job might look like.
4 Reasons To Change Jobs at 60
1. Pursue Your Passions
The idea of doing a job search can be daunting, especially when you’re older. But it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to pursue your passions. If you’re feeling stuck in a career rut, don’t be afraid to move into a new role–even if that means starting over from scratch.
2. Find More Fulfillment
A career change, even later in life, can be a way to find more fulfillment. The beauty of change is that it often brings with it new challenges. So, if you’re not feeling challenged or engaged in your current job, consider a new direction. Look for opportunities that will allow you to use your skills and talents in a way that’s more fulfilling and satisfying. Think about what kind of work makes you feel energized and motivated–this can help guide you toward a career that is right for you.
3. Create Financial Stability
Making a change later in your career can also help to create financial stability and boost your retirement savings. If you’re not happy with your current job, consider switching jobs to something that pays better or offers you more job security.
4. Increase Your Salary
A new career can provide opportunities for increased income and salary potential. It’s important to do your research before deciding, but don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from exploring new options and broadening your horizons. Making a career change at 60+ can also be a way to increase your earnings. So, if you’re unhappy with your current job, consider switching to something that pays better or offers more job security.
7 Tips to Change Jobs at 60+
At age 60, you can rebalance your career goals with the reality of what is possible at this stage in life. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments and consider new opportunities using the skills, experience, and knowledge you have gained over the years.
- Identify your passion
The first step to changing your career at 60 is to figure out what you’re passionate about. What are you interested in? What gets you excited? Once you know what drives you, it’s easier to find a career that matches your interests. - Do your research
Once you’ve defined your passion, it’s time to begin the job search. Do some research and figure out which careers might be a good fit for you. Use job search engines and other online resources to learn about different job options and get an idea of what each one entails. - Be Flexible
If you’re set on a particular career change, it’s important to be positive and flexible when transitioning. You need to be willing to start at the bottom (if necessary) and work your way up or take a pay cut to get your foot in the door. You might even consider volunteering for a day or two to see if the job fits you. Keep in mind, that it may take some time before you land your dream job, so don’t get discouraged if things don’t happen overnight. - Network
One of the best ways to find a new job, especially at 60, is through networking. Expand your network of contacts who might help you land a job. Get connected with people in your field, attend industry events, or join professional organizations. This will help you stay up to date on trends and developments in your chosen career. - Keep Skills Up to Date
Keep your skills and experience up to date by continuing to learn and keep abreast of recent developments in your field. This will make you more attractive to potential employers and can help you land a job even if you’re not actively looking for one. - Update Your Resume
Be sure to update your resume and your LinkedIn profile to include your most recent experiences, qualifications, and any new skills you’ve gained since your last job search. This will make it easier for potential employers to see what you offer and help them determine if you’re a good fit for the position. - Explore Alternatives to the 5-Day Week
At this season of your life, you might look beyond full-time employment. Consider freelance work, contract positions, part-time jobs, or start your own business. These types of arrangements can offer more flexibility and may be a better fit for your lifestyle.
The Bottom Line to Change Jobs at 60
There are plenty of job search resources available to help older adults transition into new careers. Don’t be afraid to start over. Too many people feel like they need to have everything figured out before making a change.
But nobody has all the answers–and that’s okay! If it seems too overwhelming, why not schedule a call with a career coach? The important thing is taking the first step and starting somewhere. Even if you’re not exactly sure where you’ll end up, making a career change at 60 can be one of the most rewarding things you can do.
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