I'm 52 yo and have never had a career, just jobs in various industries, some longer than others.

Danielle Barnes

October 11,2021 at 4:02PM UTC

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I'm 52 yo and have never had a career, just jobs in various industries, some longer than others. I can say all but one have been amazing opportunities. However, I have zero regrets. I now want to go back to doing something I haven't done in more than 20 years. I earned my degree in this field and if anything was to be a career, this was it but because of the long gap, I can't get TA managers to even look at me let alone put me in front of the Hiring Manager. I've even offered to return to the field in an unpaid returnship. I desperately want the experience and exposure, but so far no takers. Any suggestions on how to get back in there?

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Jackie MoriniereOctober 11,2021 at 4:28PM UTC
Could you look into additional certification or training in your field? What about contracting out your services? Taking on clients for mini-projects that adds more recent experience to your resume?
Danielle BarnesOctober 11,2021 at 6:57PM UTC
Thank you! I've contracted out my services and I do have a few clients, but so far it hasn't led to anything further. I've also taken a few online classes to try to update my skill set.
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterOctober 11,2021 at 5:51PM UTC
I imagine the issue is around the TA technology. Can you get a certification or internship to help you learn what's out there today?
AnonymousOctober 11,2021 at 5:53PM UTC
I would look at resumes and job descriptions tailored to the role you're aiming for. Redesign your resume to position your existing skills, experience and education to align as best you can (I would think a professional resume writer could help).
Further training, certifications and additional classes might bring your skills in better alignment.
What you end goal is ....is getting your foot in the door to start building your new career. So anything you can do to adjust prior titles you held and better describe your responsibilities to connect the dots for a hiring manager would help you land an interview.
Good luck. The hard part is figuring what you want to focus on so you are half way there.
Danielle BarnesOctober 11,2021 at 6:54PM UTC
Thank you! I've spent $$$ on a professional resume. I get hits but because I don't have current experience, the TA managers I do get to speak with aren't willing to pass me on to their hiring managers.
I've also taken a few online courses over the past year to try to bring my skills up to date.
Jackie MoriniereOctober 12,2021 at 1:29PM UTC
I'm happy to look at your resume for free. Considering you have taken online courses and have recent project experience, it is strange that you're not getting any movement. Have you gotten feedback from recruiters? If you're interested, send me a message.