How to Start a New Career in your 30s

Making a career change in your 30s can be a daunting prospect. But for many, it's a decision that offers greater fulfillment, personal growth, and possibly higher financial rewards. While some people may have found their dream job early on, others may have realized that their current job doesn't align with their passions, values, or long-term objectives.

As we grow older we tend to aspire to new and different goals to give our lives new meaning and greater purpose. Whether we’re looking for customer service jobs in Edmonton or switching from working in an office to becoming a park ranger, changing careers in our 30s is an important decision that requires careful consideration.

In this article, we teamed up with experts from job aggregator Jooble to explore ways to navigate the challenges of starting a new career in your 30s.

5 tips on how to transition to a new career in your 30s

While switching careers in midstream can offer personal growth and greater job satisfaction, there are many challenges to consider before taking such an important life-changing step. Let’s look at some guidelines on how to transition to a new career in your 30s:

1. Be certain that this is what you really want

It’s easy to become dissatisfied with your existing job and believe that a major career change will solve all your problems. We’ve all been there. However, if you're not a hundred percent committed to the change, things may not go as smoothly as envisaged. Switching careers midstream without some serious thought and planning can lead to disaster.

The first step is to take a long, hard look at the reasons why you are dissatisfied in your present career. What don't you like about your current job? Do you feel bored, underutilized, overworked, unfulfilled, or constantly stressed out? Figuring out what’s making you unhappy in your present role will provide you with some valuable insights into whether changing careers is the right option.

2. Make a list of your wants

So, you’re sure that you want to change things up but you’re unsure of what career would be ideal. Begin by understanding what drives and interests you. Make a list of the things that you like, that make you happy, and that excite and satisfy you. Which would you choose: job satisfaction or money? What kind of environment would you like to work in — in an office, outdoors, alone, or as part of a large group? Do you feel you have a calling to help people, or a burning desire to start your own business? Is there an end goal and is it important?

The answers to these questions will give you a clearer understanding of the direction you need to take in your future career.

3. Prepare your finances

Now that you have a general idea of where you’re headed, there’s another factor you need to take into account before you take such a big step: your financial situation. How much money is it going to take to make the switch? Will you be taking a salary cut, and will you need additional (expensive) training for the new career? If you’ve decided to start your own business, do you have enough funds to see you through before it turns a profit?

It may be a better strategy to stay in your present job for as long as it takes to ensure that you have enough funds to see you through the transition.

4. Look before you make the leap

Changing your career may be an exciting (if somewhat scary) prospect, but before wasting time, effort, and money, as well as possibly causing yourself stress, be sure that this is what you truly want. Quitting your job is a risky move and not something you want to rush into lightly, only to find later on that you’ve made a terrible mistake. Weigh up all the pros and cons of swapping your present job before making the drastic leap to a new one.

5. Find the role that’s right for you

Now that you’re satisfied that you want to change careers and have the necessary funds to see you through the transition, what comes next? Search for job postings online and underline the ones that speak to you. Once you’ve found the jobs that interest you, it’s time to dust off your resume and go for it!

Final thoughts

Changing your career in your 30s can certainly be daunting and may throw up many challenges in your path, but if the potential rewards outweigh the risk, then it’s definitely worth it. Stay focused on your goals and believe in yourself.  With hard work and total commitment, you can overcome all obstacles and build a successful and satisfying new career for yourself.