Is It Too Late to Start a New Career

Is It Too Late to Start a New CareerIs It Too Late to Start a New Career4This is a question many people are currently asking themselves, judging by recent workplace statistics. A 2013 Gallup poll found that only 13 percent of employees like their jobs, as measured by their level of engagement and emotional investment in their organizations. LiveScience reported that 56 percent of U.S. workers are actively trying to change careers.Despite the prevalence of job dissatisfaction, its not easy to embark on a revamped career direction after a certain age. Midlife career changers face a bevy of obstacles, from lack of training and education in their vocation of choice to the potential for age discrimination. Yet in many industries, it may not be too late to start over.Here are some tips to consider if you want to start a new careerChoose your job wisely.Certain positions may lend themselves mora to midlife career shifts than others. The Grindstone lists teaching (minimal additional educatio n required if you have a degree), design (ability to draw on your creative instincts), and financial services (chance to work with your own clients and schedule) as smart choices.Use existing contacts. A huge benefit of having a strong career track record behind you in any industry is your network. A decades-long career puts you far ahead of younger employees when it comes to who you know- and you can work your professional network to your advantage both in person and online to get referrals that may help you break into a new field. Forbes reports that 85 percent of hiring managers use LinkedIn and other social networking sites to seek candidates that other professionals have referred.Consider flex or freelance.If youve ever wanted to be your own boss, becoming a freelancer, small business owner, or business consultant may hold appeal for you. These types of careers allow greater flexibility in making your own schedule and building your own client base than traditional jobs. The key is that you generally need to have a nest egg in place- some career experts suggest at least 6 months of savings- to bridge the gap between schauplatz up your new business and getting your cash flow going. If thats a stretch, consider negotiating with your current employer to work from home and/or part-time while you make the transition.Making a career change late in the game may not be easy- but in many cases, it can be done. Do your homework, work your network, and be open to different ways of working and living that may help you reach your dream. In time, you may be inspiring others to follow you down a new path.Readers, are you planning to start a new career? Tell us about the career change youre making