While changing careers can be intimidating, it’s completely normal. Studies show that the average American will hold about 12 jobs during their lifetime, with an average tenure of four years working for each employer. Changing jobs is more frequent during our younger years, as we begin to navigate the workforce and discover our interests and talents. However, it’s entirely possible to change careers at any time in your life—even 30 or 40 years old!

And if you decide to change careers late in the game, you are not alone. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that, between the ages of 25 and 34 years old, Americans will change jobs an average of 2.4 times. Between ages 35 and 44, the BLS estimates about 2.9 career changes. It’s never too late to switch gears, learn new skills, and travel down a different road, especially if that means reaching a career that brings you fulfillment and joy. Changing careers at 30, or even 40 years old, just requires a bit of persistence and planning ahead.

How to change careers as an adult

1. Identify your talents and skill sets.

As you think about changing careers, it’s important to pinpoint your strengths and your most transferable skills. For example, are you a strong communicator? Do you excel in project management and organization? Do you tend to think outside the box with good problem-solving skills? Take time to identify both your soft skills and your technical capabilities, and consider updating your (now possibly outdated) resume to reflect these strengths. Even if you do not have super relevant job experience, employers will love to see skills like critical thinking, communication, and project management on your application. In fact, research shows that an incredible 97 percent of employers today place high value on soft skills, deeming they are equally or more important than hard skills for a job.

2. Consider your interests and what you want out of a job.

On top of identifying your skill sets, it’s also essential to pin down your passions and interests. If you are changing careers at 30, 35, or 40 years old, it’s likely you have a good idea of what career you want to pursue next. However, if you do not know exactly where you want to go, try making a list of the things or topics that interest you most. Are you an avid lover of science, number-crunching, or creative writing? Do you enjoy helping people and making an impact in their lives? Or, do you prefer behind-the-scenes, operational work?

As you think about your interests, be sure to consider what type of job will bring you fulfillment and purpose. Oftentimes, many people leave their jobs because they crave more meaning in their careers. On top of aligning your career switch with your passion areas, also think about:

• What type of workplace culture are you seeking?
• Do you want to work on a team?
• Are you interested in a people-facing or operational role?
• Do you want a career that allows you to be a decision- and change-maker?
• Are you seeking a career that welcomes creativity?
• Do you desire a career where you feel challenged and pushed, or where you can grow?
• Is there a certain salary threshold you are hoping to achieve?

These are just some of the many questions you should ask as you consider what’s next in your career trajectory. Once you have a grasp on what’s important to you, you can then begin the process of working towards that job.

3. Research potential career paths and their requirements.

Whether you are exploring your career options, or have your sights set on a specific job already, take time to research the standard requirements for the position or industry. The pathway to some careers are relatively straightforward, with some on-the-job training or professional certification required. Others might necessitate going back to school, either to finish your degree or to start a new program where you can gain career-specific skills.

For example, many of the best jobs for adults switching careers (according to Indeed) are in the healthcare field. Most healthcare careers require some technical training and know-how, before being able to get licensed and/or practice in patient care. The great news is, many of these pathways are fast-paced and flexible!

Nursing, for instance, requires an associate degree that only takes about two years to complete. There are even faster nursing programs for those who already have a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, careers in medical coding and medical assisting require a postsecondary certificate from an accredited program, taking even less time to launch an impactful career.

Every job and every employer will have their own set requirements. As you begin the process of making a career change, no matter your age, you should always begin with a knowledge of the required steps to get there. This will help streamline your career change and save you time and money in the long-run.

Interested in learning more about the process of changing careers? Read our article, here.

4. Find an educational training program that meets your needs.

Once you get familiar with the requirements of your dream job, it’s time to check off the boxes. To do so, you must research local schools in your area, or possibly online programs, that offer your pathway of choice. Be sure to look for an institution that is reputable, accredited, and that supports your new career trajectory from start to finish. For example, if you are hoping to change careers to nursing, you should find a nursing school that offers the level of degree and training required by your state.

On top of finding a school or program that supports your career goals, you must also find an academic offering that supports you as an adult student. It’s scary enough to think about going back to school as an adult learner. However, many schools offer flexible programs that are designed for busy individuals like you! And, the right institution will be ready to offer you support services along the way. For example, at Goodwin University, you will find:

• Accelerated degrees and certificates, to get you into a career you love fast
• Comprehensive student services, including resume workshops, counseling, job search support, veteran services, and more
• Customizable schedules, tailored to your individual needs as an adult student
• Degree completion programs for adults needing to complete their bachelor’s
• Online and hybrid programs, to support distance learners
• Part-time program offerings, so you can continue to work while going to school

Going back to school is often an essential part of the process of changing careers. And right now you might be thinking, “Can you really teach an old dog new tricks?” The answer is yes! In fact, the vast majority (almost 75 percent!) of students at Goodwin University are over the age of 25. Many have transferred from other schools or institutions, and many are in the process of changing careers.

Rather than shying away from it, try your best to embrace and welcome the change. Going back to school at 30 or 40 years old is a great way to obtain new skills and gain relevant experience related to your future role. When choosing an educational program, it’s best to choose one that is highly focused on your specific career and building skill sets within that profession. Career-focused colleges and universities are designed to help students develop their skills, and become eligible for the workforce, as fast and thoroughly as possible.

5. Update your resume and begin your job search.

Once you gain relevant skills and the experience or training needed to launch a new career, it’s time to make the big moves: beginning your job search. Before you do this, however, be sure to dust off your resume and update it with any new skills you’ve gained, education you’ve acquired, and training or certifications you’ve completed as an adult. Don’t forget to add your most recent job experience to your resume, too, and remove anything that is especially outdated or no longer relevant.

At Goodwin, we offer our students and alumni support in recreating their resumes, writing cover letters, and preparing for job interviews. We also can help you begin your job search, if and when you are ready. As a career-focused institution, Goodwin has connections with employers throughout Connecticut and beyond.

What are the best career changes at 30 or 40 years old?

As an adult with experience in the workforce, you likely know what you like and what you don’t like in a professional setting. You likely have an idea of what you’re interested in doing for work, and where your talents lie. However, you may still be unsure how those all translate to a career, and which careers will be most fruitful—and feasible—for you at 30 or 40 years old.

While there is no “right” or “wrong” career choice, there are some that are especially popular for adults switching professions. Below are some of the most cited careers to consider at 30, 35, or 40 years old. Hint: These careers offer a comfortable pay, and can be achieved quickly, without a large investment in school.

1. Dental hygienist (requires an associate degree)
2. Entrepreneur or starting your own product/company (business experience recommended, but not required)
3. Event planner (business or on-the-job experience preferred)
4. HR specialist or recruiter (some business administration experience required)
5. Medical assistant (can be achieved with a certificate or associate degree)
6. Patient care technician (typically requires a postsecondary certificate)
7. Personal trainer (certification is typically required)
8. Project manager (a bachelor’s degree may be preferred)
9. Real estate agent (training and professional license required)
10. Registered nurse (requires an associate degree in Nursing)
11. Web designer or developer (some training and experience required)
12. Yoga instructor (certification required)

Should You Change Careers?

Deciding whether or not to change careers is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. After all, you have a life to protect. But you also have a life that’s worth living out to the best of your ability, and this may mean finding a job that better suits your interests and needs. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help determine if a career change is the right choice for you:

• Do you lack fulfillment in your current career?
• Are you limited in terms of your growth?
• Do you feel like your position is insecure or on the line?
• Do you strive for more work-life balance?
• Are you seeking a higher salary or more reward in your profession?
• Are you experiencing personal life changes that warrant a career change?

If you are unsure whether or not it’s the right time to change careers, you may consider consulting someone who has experience in this exact topic. As mentioned, Goodwin University’s student body is filled with adult students who are making changes in their professional lives. We are happy to speak with you, learn more about your situation, and answer any questions you might have about making a career change as an adult. Ready to get started?

Contact us at 800-889-3282 today. You may also request more information online here.