25 Jun 2024

Starting a new career at 50

They say life begins at 40, but these days, many of us are living longer and changing career at 50. So when we reach our half-century, what factors should we consider before we make our next move?

Senior woman working in garden shop

The average person in the UK reportedly has 12 jobs during their lifetime. So in short, starting a new career at 50 is very common.

In fact, many of us can expect to work later in life than previous generations. The default retirement age of 65 no longer exists, and the State Pension rise from age 66 to 67 will take place between 2026- 2028. There will be another review within two years of next Parliament to reconsider the rise to 68. Find out more at GOV.UK

And of course, we all have to think about care costs in later life, so retraining in your 50s could be a smart way to acquire new skills and give yourself and your loved ones a sound financial footing.
 

Changing careers at 50: what to consider

Everyone's life journey is different, but if you're thinking about starting a new career at 50, there are certain factors where you can take a calculated risk, why not turn a hobby into a viable career change at 50?

What's your biggest passion?

Life’s too short to spend your entire working life doing something you don’t enjoy. If you’re in a financial position where you can take a calculated risk, why not turn a hobby into a viable career change at 50?

Do you have dependants?

Your freedom to start a new career may depend on your responsibilities, whether that’s raising children or caring for an older relative, for example. But if your children have flown the nest or your schedule is lighter than usual, it might be the right moment to start a new career at 50.

Do you have the right skills?

In a world of rapid technological change, getting new skills at 50 can boost your employability prospects as industries evolve. Retraining in your 50s is also a chance to get new qualifications and credentials to stand out from the crowd.

How to start a career change at 50

If you’re wondering how to take the plunge, here are some steps you can take to forge a new career path at 50.

  1. Update your CV. If your CV or portfolio is gathering digital dust, is it time for a revamp?
  2. Start networking. If you have the ability to commit the time, networking can be a great way to boost your connections and make new career choices in your 50s.
  3. Use your contact book. Job candidates who’ve been referred by a contact are often more likely to get hired. Do you know anyone from your past who could vouch for you?

Ideas for changing careers at 50

No two individuals are the same, so there's no one size-fits-all careers advice for over 50s. But for some inspiration, we've compiled some ideas below based on different circumstances.

Changing career in your 50s

"I want a slower pace"

If you’ve been working in a fast and frenetic role with daily deadlines, it’s understandable if you’d rather change career to a slower-paced job in your 50s. This may particularly be the case if you have challenges with your health, such as mobility issues. Below are some ideas for slower-paced jobs, with the caveat that not every workplace is the same.

  • Librarian
  • Admin assistant
  • Receptionist

"I want a shorter commute"

In a world where working from home has become a reality for many, it’s possible to carry out some jobs without leaving the front door. Here are some examples:

  • Virtual receptionist
  • Software developer
  • Bookkeeper

"I want a stable job"

No job is entirely future proof, especially with economic shocks and emerging trends like artificial intelligence. But if you’re looking to retrain in your 50s to a more ‘reliable’ role, here are some examples of jobs that might offer more job security:

  • Nurse
  • Hairdresser
  • Teacher

"I want to be self employed"

If you’ve worked in a nine-to-five role throughout your working life, self-employment might offer an attractive change of careers in your 50s. Here are some ideas for going it alone:

  • Tradesperson (like electricians, plumbers or painters)
  • Tutors
  • Freelance writers and editors

Resources for changing career at 50

Everyone has a different career journey, and for support and guidance on changing careers at 50, the following resources may help.

  • Job Help is a UK government website with resources to help you find work.
  • Age UK offers online advice on finding a job in later life.
  • Find your nearest Jobcentre Plus for support on securing - and staying in - your next job.

Find out more about Over 50 Life Insurance

Meet our expert
Jen Evans

Jennifer Evans

Insurance Content Specialist, Legal & General Retail, Insurance

Jennifer has over 16 years of experience across a variety of roles in our Retail Protection Marketing team at Legal & General. As an Insurance Content Specialist, she develops great content that both educates visitors about protection in general and our own products. She also supports in the development and review of useful articles and guides spanning across lifestyle topics to funeral planning and wills. She reviews the journeys to and through-out our website, making it as easy as possible for customers to reach the information they need.

More about Jennifer

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