How to Approach a Career Change at 60

Making a career change at 60 is becoming increasingly popular. It’s no longer just the young professionals who are considering a career shift. Think about the likes of Judi Dench who, although she’d been acting for a long time, finally got her most prominent role as M in the James Bond series at age 61; or Harland David Sanders who franchised KFC at the age of 62. If they could achieve career success at 60, why can’t you?

As the old adage goes, “You’re only as old as you feel.” So, if you’re not quite ready to retire, that’s perfectly fine and certainly not a far-fetched idea. In fact, age can be an advantage – you have a wealth of experience and insights to offer. Keen to explore career change ideas at 60? Let’s delve in.

Is 60 Too Old To Change Careers?

Wondering if 60 is too old to change careers? It’s natural to have doubts. But remember, ambition knows no age. The modern professional landscape offers a range of opportunities that make a career change at 60 not just possible, but also highly rewarding. Here’s why:

• Maturity and Experience: At 60, you’ve accumulated a lifetime of professional and personal experiences. This maturity can be a significant advantage in decision-making, problem-solving and interpersonal relationships in a new career.
• Financial Stability: Many people of this age have achieved a certain level of financial stability allowing for the pursuit of passion projects over higher-paying roles.
• Flexible Work Options: The desire to work differently is valid. Many companies now offer flexible work schedules, reduced hours or remote work options. This means you can continue to work, but on terms that suit your lifestyle. Whether it’s spending more time with family, pursuing hobbies or simply reducing commute stress, the modern work environment is more accommodating than ever.
• Diverse Skill Set: Over the years, you’ve likely acquired a diverse set of hard and soft skills. This versatility can be a unique selling point, especially in roles that younger individuals might not be equipped for.
• Emotional Intelligence: Age often enhances emotional intelligence, understanding and patience. These qualities are invaluable in roles that require team leadership and conflict resolution.
• Changing Workplace Dynamics: The contemporary workplace is recognising the strength of age diversity. A 2021 TIME article highlighted that more US companies, including the likes of AIS, Microsoft and Marriott are increasingly valuing the reliability and skills of older workers. In fact, 40% of AIS’s 750-person workforce is over age 50. In the UK, a government report titled The Future of Work: Jobs and Skills in 2030 states: “Over the next decade, the number of economically active people aged 65 and over is projected to increase by one-third. Workplaces will become more multi-generational, with four generations working together.”

Continuing to work after retirement age can provide a newfound sense of purpose and engagement. It’s not just about finances, it’s about contributing, staying active and being part of a community.

7 Career Change at 60 Ideas

At 60, you might find yourself at a crossroads, wondering what to do next. It’s a time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Maybe you’re still craving the hustle of the corporate world or perhaps you’re seeking a better work-life balance. Here are some popular ideas for a career change at 60:

1. Corporate Trainer

Companies are always on the lookout for experts who can train their staff in specialised areas. With your vast experience, you can help upskill employees, conduct workshops and share best practices, ensuring the workforce is well-equipped for the challenges ahead.

2. Consultancy

A career change at 60 doesn’t mean discarding your past experiences. Offer consultancy services based on your years of expertise. This approach is less demanding than a full-time role, but leverages your knowledge effectively.

3. Counsellor or Therapist

With age comes wisdom and a unique perspective on life. Guide others through various life challenges, providing emotional and professional advice. Your personal touch can make the process more comforting for clients.

4. Corporate Advisory Board Member

Many companies seek experienced professionals for their advisory boards. Your insights can guide businesses strategically without the daily commitments of full-time roles. It’s a way to influence decisions and stay connected with the corporate world while retaining your independence.

5. Gardening

If you’ve always loved plants, gardening could be a perfect fit for you for a career change after 60. Beyond just mowing lawns, landscaping allows you to design beautiful outdoor spaces, create theme-specific gardens or even contribute to community projects. Plus, physical activity keeps you active.

6. Small Business Owner

Consider starting your own small business. Your extensive experience can be invaluable in managing and growing a venture. Whether it’s a boutique store, consultancy or any other entrepreneurial endeavour, it’s an opportunity to apply your skills and passion in a new way.

7. Become a Mentor

Think of all the lessons you’ve learned over the years. Now, imagine sharing that wisdom with someone just starting out on that same career path. Mentoring gives you a chance to guide, support and see young professionals grow – and there are many more benefits of mentoring, including topping up your income and staying connected with your industry.

How to Navigate a Career Change at 60

Changing careers at 60 might seem scary but with the right approach, you can navigate your later-life career change smoothly:

• Decide on Your New Path: Begin by clarifying what you want to pursue in your new career. Assess your interests, passions and goals to determine the direction you wish to take.
• Expand and Leverage Your Network: “It’s not what you know but who you know.” Making the most of your connections is crucial at this stage. By the time you reach your 60s, you’ve likely built a vast network of contacts already. Now’s the time to reconnect with these old colleagues or friends. They can offer valuable insights, opportunities and even make useful introductions.
• Continuous Learning: Rapid changes in technology and constant innovation mean that tech skills are required in many modern-day roles. If you’re considering a career change at 60, think about updating your skill set by enrolling in online courses, attending workshops or participating in seminars.
• Transferable Skills: With your wealth of experience, you’ll likely find that many of your skills are transferable. Perhaps you’ve led a large team, organised events or handled project budgets. Recognise these transferable skills and identify roles where they’ll be valuable.
• Seek Guidance: An external perspective can be a game-changer. Career mentors can offer insights into unexplored industries and guide you to roles that match your skills and passion.
• Update Your CV: Think of it as your personal brand. Showcase your extensive experience, but tailor it to your new career aspirations. For example, if you’re transitioning from retail management to consultancy, highlight your team leadership and project management skills.
• Explore Age-Inclusive Employers: Companies are increasingly recognising the worth of workers aged 55 and above. In alignment with this trend, initiatives like returnerships are gaining traction. Returnerships offer opportunities for experienced professionals, including those over 50, to re-enter the workforce after career breaks, providing a pathway for them to contribute their wealth of knowledge and expertise. Read more about returning to work after a break.

Navigating a career change at 60 doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Rather, it’s about harnessing the knowledge and experience you’ve gathered over the years and steering it in a new direction.

Start Mentoring at 60

At 60, you’re likely starting to think about semi-retirement or full retirement and part of this might include wanting to achieve a better work-life balance, giving you more time to focus on the things you enjoy.

Mentoring could be the answer to your needs. When you become a mentor, you can:

• Work from home
• Set your own schedule
• Top up your income
• Choose who to work with

Ready to start mentoring? The Career Navig8r platform is designed for experienced professionals like you, connecting you directly with mentees who want to take the same career path you’ve already succeeded in.

Becoming a Navig8r (that’s what we call our mentors!) is easy. Here’s what to do:

1. Create Your Mentor Profile: Tell us about your experience and expertise.

2. Set Your Hourly Rate: Decide the value of your time and knowledge.

3. Meet Mentees: Engage, guide and support on your own schedule.

Become a mentor, make a difference and take on your career change at 60 or beyond full of confidence and ambition.