Changing careers later in life can feel challenging, but it can also be one of the most empowering decisions you make. Many people in their 50s and 60s bring a wealth of experience, emotional intelligence, and reliability that employers truly value—often more than they realize. Far from being “past it,” mature professionals are increasingly sought after for their stability, strong work ethic, and ability to handle challenges with calmness. If you’re considering a new direction, this stage of life can be an ideal time to connect your career with your values, lifestyle, and strengths.
Second-Act Careers: 50+ Ways to Profit from Your Passions During Semi-Retirement by Nancy Collamer
An encouraging and practical guide for anyone over 50 who wants to shape a more fulfilling work life. Collamer offers more than 50 creative ideas for earning income—ranging from consulting and coaching to creative projects and small business ventures—making it easier to match your passions, skills, and lifestyle goals. The book helps mature job seekers recognise the value of their experience while exploring flexible, meaningful options beyond traditional employment. If you’re considering a new direction in midlife or semi-retirement, this resource provides both inspiration and clear, actionable steps. It’s an uplifting read that can spark fresh possibilities and is well worth exploring further.
Choosing a New Path
Begin by assessing what motivates you now. Your interests, priorities, and energy levels may have changed over time, so reevaluating what you enjoy—and what you want to leave behind—is important. Ask yourself: What tasks energize me? Which skills do others compliment me on? What work environment suits me best? Create a list of your transferable skills—leadership, communication, mentoring, problem-solving—and match them to roles or industries that appreciate these qualities. Speaking with a career counselor or taking a skills assessment can help you think of ideas you may not have considered.
Networking is particularly valuable at this stage. Reconnect with former colleagues, attend industry meetups, and join online professional groups. Many opportunities for mature workers come from personal contacts who already trust your skills.
Preparing Your Résumé and Interviewing Technique
A modern résumé for an experienced professional should focus on accomplishments rather than job history. Highlight achievements from the past 10–15 years and summarize earlier roles without unnecessary detail. Use a clean and modern format that emphasizes measurable results—cost savings, efficiency improvements, team successes, customer satisfaction, and so on. Tailor each résumé to the job description and make sure to include up-to-date digital skills.
In interviews, highlight the strengths that come with maturity. Employers often value candidates who are reliable, cooperative, and skilled at resolving conflicts. Have examples ready that demonstrate your adaptability—times when you learned new technology, took on different responsibilities, or helped others through transitions. Maintain a positive and forward-looking tone, showing excitement for learning and contributing in a new environment.
Thriving in a New Role
Once you get the job, give yourself time to adjust. Each workplace has its own culture, and it’s normal to feel out of place at first. Seek out colleagues who seem welcoming and friendly, ask meaningful questions, and take the initiative to learn the tools and processes of the organization. Your experience provides a solid foundation, but staying curious and flexible will help you settle in smoothly.
Finally, remember that starting fresh is a sign of strength, not uncertainty. Reinventing yourself at 50 or 60 is absolutely possible—and many people find this is the most rewarding chapter of their professional lives. Your skills, wisdom, and perspective are valuable assets. Move forward with confidence.
Learn more
The Encore Career Handbook: How to Make a Living and a Difference in the Second Half of Life by Marci Alboher
A motivating guide for anyone seeking purpose and income in midlife, this book helps you blend meaningful work with practical planning. Alboher offers tools, stories, and strategies to uncover what you truly want next, making it ideal for those ready to contribute, grow, and reinvent themselves in the second half of life.
Great Jobs for Everyone 50 +: Finding Work That Keeps You Happy and Healthy…and Pays the Bills by Kerry E. Hannon
This empowering book highlights rewarding, flexible, and health-supportive jobs tailored to people over 50. Hannon shares realistic options, expert advice, and inspiring examples to help readers find work that fits their skills and lifestyle. It’s a confidence-boosting resource for mature job seekers wanting stability and satisfaction.
Getting the Job You Want After 50 for Dummies by Kerry Hannon
Clear, friendly, and highly practical, this guide walks older job seekers through modern résumés, interviews, networking, and job-search strategies. Hannon’s advice helps readers showcase their strengths and stay competitive in today’s market. It’s an excellent confidence-builder for anyone restarting their career after 50.