How to Restart Your Career After 40

At first glance, with age a person accumulates more and more experience and skills, which should increase his demand in the labor market.

But in reality, rebooting after forty can be a challenging task.

Below are some reasons why this is the case, as well as some tips on what you can do about it.

Why it's hard to restart your career at an older age

Ageism

Many companies have biases against older workers, believing that they are less adaptable, less tech-savvy, and have less energy. These stereotypes can make it difficult to hire more mature candidates.

Technological evolution

Companies often look for candidates who are familiar with the latest technologies. However, most people do not develop throughout their lives, as a result of which they will simply lack the necessary knowledge and skills.

Salary Expectations

Young people have much more modest demands. This applies to both wages and overtime work. Many companies are trying to cut costs and therefore prefer to hire younger specialists with lower demands.

Changes in the labor market

The labor market is constantly changing: new professions appear, and some become irrelevant. Older people may have a hard time adapting to these changes, especially if their careers are associated with obsolete professions.

Problems with self-confidence

When a person is older, it is much harder to get rejected. This can be reflected in the behavior during the interview, when the person shows his uncertainty.

What can be done about this?

Take care of your health

Sports, proper nutrition and sleep will allow you to improve your physical fitness. Of course, no one will tell you directly at the interview that you are being rejected based on your appearance. But the employer is unlikely to be delighted when a person with flabby skin and huge bags under the eyes comes to the interview.

And you will make a completely different impression if it is obvious from the first glance that you are in good health.

Update your skills

Stay up-to-date with market trends and learn new skills relevant to your field. Online courses and seminars are great ways to refresh your knowledge.

Review and update your resume

Design your resume to highlight your most recent and relevant experience. Highlight your skills, accomplishments, and specific projects that demonstrate your expertise.

Use networking

Take advantage of your connections, as you've probably met a wide variety of people over the years. Connect with former colleagues, friends, and other professionals in your field. Building a network can open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised publicly.

Prepare for interviews

Be prepared to convincingly explain how your knowledge and experience can benefit the company. Be prepared to answer questions about career changes and demonstrate your enthusiasm for new opportunities.

Consider freelancing

If you can't find a permanent job, think about freelancing. The good thing about it is that even a person without much experience can find their first clients (although you'll have to work for pennies to do this).

But over time, you will meet many people, perhaps you will be offered a permanent job. But in any case, you will gain experience in your specialty, and then it will be easier for you to find a permanent job.

Be flexible

Be open to different types of jobs, including temporary positions, part-time work, or work in industries unrelated to your expertise. This can be a stepping stone to more permanent and relevant positions.

During the interview, show companies that you are a person who can quickly adapt to changes. But do so only if you actually have this profile.

Conclusion

Restarting your career and finding a new job after forty is entirely possible. Just take care of your health, update your knowledge and move forward to new achievements!

Earlier I talked about how to recognize that your boss doesn’t like you.

• Related news:
• career
• board
• success
• work
• 15 September 2024

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