Downgrade my career?

44 Comments

1. Rena HolcombApril 14,2023 at 3:15PM UTC

   Personally, I would go with my gut instinct and step back. Depending on the field, your age, should you decide to return, may or may not matter, but the opportunity to reevaluate you working may be the best thing--also depending on the nature of your health issues--if you had heart issues due to stress of the job--step back quickly. I am also almost 62--no regrets ahead, only living my best life and I bet you will find the same! Good luck!

2. AnonymousApril 14,2023 at 3:40PM UTC

   Thanks so much! I’m coming back from cancer. I’ve been working now about 8 months after my last chemo treatment and everyone at work is like full steam ahead, forget that happened. And I get that. But I find it hard to forget. My ego knows taking a stepped down role might be tough at first, but I think I need to realize my life is just not the same pre-diagnosis. Thanks!

3. AnonymousApril 15,2023 at 2:15PM UTC

   I've had BC twice while working. The last time I was 58 and joined a BC support group. It was very helpful as far as immersing myself mentally back into "real" world vs cancer world. I had a management position and worked from home and rode that out until retired at 63. My workload was manageable.
   If your current job has long hours and stressful, I would make a change.

4. AnonymousApril 14,2023 at 3:24PM UTC

   Of course you can. You can consult part time as well.

5. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:23PM UTC

   This is my thought too. If you consult or even pick up hourly contract jobs that are on short time lines, its easier to walk away at the end of a day. You aren’t treated better so that’s not always easy but you can also care a bit less.

6. AnonymousApril 14,2023 at 3:46PM UTC

   Being in good health is the most important thing, because without it you can't perform your job or anything else. If there are no financial reasons why you can't, I would recommend you request a leave of absence and have your physician place you out of work. If you have disability insurance that will help financially and FMLA or accommodation request for a leave under ADA can protect your job for at least 90 days if not more. Jobs come and go, so you can get back out there when you're well. Wishing you the best!

7. AnonymousApril 14,2023 at 6:26PM UTC

   You may regret it. And the admin role may not actually be easier because you would have less control.

8. AnonymousApril 15,2023 at 10:06PM UTC

   Tell me about it. Like a previous person suggested (time you cannot get back); I agree find the right fit and go for it. I on the other hand want to transition from an admin role to HR management...ms in Organizational Leadership...wow, wish we could just switch...lol. Good luck, and don't give up on your pursuit.

9. AnonymousApril 15,2023 at 4:13PM UTC

   I ‘stepped back’ at 56 to spend more time with my husband, who is not healthy. It was hard at first because I worked for a gaslighting you know what. She felt threatened by my experience and education, of which she had neither. I eventually found an opportunity in the county I live in and basically run a small office with a big budget and 25 employees. I enjoy it immensely. The leadership mode never really goes away, but fortunately I still give my input and it is appreciated. I’m home every day at 5. No phone calls, no late nights. Time is something you never get back.

   find the right fit and go for it. It requires much self talk, but I know I am happier and relaxed. Good luck to you.

10. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:44PM UTC

    Your response here resonates with me… I’m your age, have a husband with a serious chronic illness, and I took a higher paying position at a large prestigious company and the stress that accompanies the role! I’ve been thinking I need to switch to a smaller org for the same reasons.

11. Nibor EroomApril 16,2023 at 8:38PM UTC

    Never again will I be married to my job. I’m married to a wonderful man and we just live within our means and I count every evening with him a blessing. It was a step down, sometimes hard to explain, but I just tell anyone who asks, ‘What’s more important? Another $1500 a month or hours with your husband, kids and grandkids?’

12. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 1:16AM UTC

    Yes!!! agree 100%! Originally I thought this job would be perfect, well - long story short- the great salary comes at a price - not necessarily tons of extra hours but the stress and pressure has taken its toll. It’s time for me to do something else! ?

13. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 12:11PM UTC

    I think 12:13 provides a good possible path bc admin positions are not really easy or non—stressful. If anything, after a mngmt role and if you are a leader personality, the lack of autonomy along with the massive workload and being at the whim of xyz leads/bosses could be far more stressful. Leading in a smaller lower stakes environment might be a lot better and actually enjoyable and fulfilling.

14. Reb562April 16,2023 at 12:18PM UTC

    My husband left his 6 figure corporate manager role to work for practically minimum wage as a guy who cleans swimming pools (seriously) He was 50 at the time and was tired of everything. The people, the rat race and just felt like he needed to step away. I told him him he would regret it. It's been 8 years and he has never been happier. He has more free time to spend with our son and he values that more than a job he couldn't take anymore.

15. Heather AllynnApril 16,2023 at 1:00PM UTC

    Taking your care of yourself should outweigh other concerns in my humble opinion. Look up "Squiggly Careers" on Ted talks. This concept may help you make a decision.

16. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 1:00PM UTC

    I am glad to hear that you're on the road to recovery and I want to thank you for posting this question. Your question has been crossing my mind as well lately. I have been in the workforce for about 30 years, and for a long time I had convinced myself that I should be at least in a director level position at this stage of my career. I didn't start pursuing manager positions until 10 years ago. The manager positions were a result of me seeking opportunities outside of my organizations as opposed to promotions. Recently I was diagnosed with ADHD, which I believe is why I experienced so much frustration with my career stagnation when I was killing myself working crazy hours and sacrificing time with people I care about all while seeing other colleagues with less time on the job and less overall experience advance in their careers. Now that I know about my condition combined with other matters in my personal life, I am thinking about seeking a non-managerial role. I am aware that there are many people with ADHD who are leading successful careers in demanding and high-powered positions, however when I think about my past jobs where I enjoyed the greatest work/life balance, they were non-managerial positions. Once you reach a certain age, priorities change and the pandemic taught us that life is fleeting. Many of my health conditions have emanated from work and started once I took on managerial roles. If your finances can handle you downgrading your career, and offers you a better quality of life, I say go for it - I know if I can find a new job that pays me close to or the same as what I'm earning now, without the demands and expectations that come with being in management, I'm going to take it. Good luck.

17. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 1:52PM UTC

    So I'm in my 50s, and I am currently in an admin position. In my past life, I was in a managerial position. There is something to be said about not having to deal with the responsibility. However, you need to be prepared for a distinct difference in how people treat you, especially by men in your age group. If you think it was hard getting respect as a woman in a managerial position, just wait until you see how you're treated as an admin. To many of these guys admin= servant, and you'll be amazed at the menial stuff they ask you to do and expect you to do -- the stuff that you did as a manager for yourself. For instance, they'll pick up their phone and dial you so you can connect them to someone. It's hilarious because it doesn't dawn on them it would be so much faster not to involve me in dialing the phone for them, and they could have done it themselves. And it doesn't matter how many times you tell them about what you used to do, they will never take you seriously or give you credit. Now maybe this has just been my experience, but I am not exaggerating and I have a litany of stories I could share with you about making a move from manager to admin. However, don't let me discourage you; rather, just be prepared. You will enjoy walking out of the office at night and on weekends without a care in the world. It's a trade off. But being patronized and condescended specifically by men in my age group and older is something I still can't get used to.

18. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:15PM UTC

    Good to know. That may be a hard pill to swallow. Thanks for the advice. Best wishes to you!

19. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 8:33PM UTC

    I hand them the company phone list. Even put up a board with the list enlarged and color coded. No longer do I connect him with anyone.

20. Lorraine HerreraApril 16,2023 at 2:13PM UTC

    Is there a possibility you can perform your current tasks with reasonable accommodations? askjan.org has good information about what accommodations you can ask for. Is not legal to demote you because of illness if you can perform your tasks with accommodations. And if you like what you do, having to leave it is a really hard emotional process, that being chronically ill already takes a toll in the mental health.

21. Cathy PalmerApril 16,2023 at 2:14PM UTC

    I was laid off during Covid from a company I worked for 20 years. Worked my way up to management. When I found a new job it was a step down. But the possibility was there. Since then due to structure changes I have been able to apply for several management positions. Didn’t get any of them. They last one I really thought about, I was happy where I was. Work late, get paid for it. Go on vacation and come back to hundreds of emails no longer. I am much happier and less stressed on the non management job. And guess what, just got my review and was told I was the only person to ever get the “walks on water” ranking in a customer facing position. Makes me feel great!

22. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:19PM UTC

    I agree mostly with what these comments already say. I’d like to add you need to be aware that an admin position can be just as stressful with an unmanageable workload and less pay. I worked in legal for a long time and I saw a few instances of this.

    Once we had a lawyer from the UK who could not get her credentials in Canada for a while and thought for the time being she would be a legal assistant. She had no idea what was involved with the job and she left very soon after she started.

    I’ve also seen people in management roles take admin jobs and not realize the challenges involved in that position. It’s a lot of organization and multi tasking that many who have never done it wouldn’t understand. It’s true a good admin is worth their weight in gold.

    I’m not sure what type of job you’re coming from, but be careful of what you choose for an admin position and ensure it’s the right fit. Admin jobs come in all shapes and sizes and require certain skills and levels of thick skin depending on the position. Good luck!

23. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 8:30PM UTC

    I so agree! At my current position, I lead no one, yet everyone. Coming from management, I have a new respect for those admins who hold the place together!

24. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:26PM UTC

    Rather than specifically becoming an admin, would you consider being an individual contributor in a different role for your field? You may find more control in that kind of job without the responsibility of people management. I chose to “downgrade” my career from manager to individual contributor when I returned to work after an extended absence as a SAHM, and it’s been the best decision I could’ve made.

25. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:33PM UTC

    Right before Covid I was laid off from a job that I had been at for 23 years & worked my way up. Wasn't able to find much during Covid so I took a very big step back to a job that is close to minimum wage but pays the bills & thought it might be good to slow down at 56 but once they have figured out my experience they are putting more on my plate. I'm starting to think about looking for a new job that I would at least get paid for the work/headaches I'm dealing with. So far the step back hasn't worked for me.

    I wish you the best of luck with your health issues and the job search.

26. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 3:03PM UTC

    same here. I’m the Volkswagen commenter above. I’m currently doing the work of 5 separate people and getting paid the least in the company. (I’m in charge of the money.) The only other person in my age bracket is a man and he makes six figures and barely does his own job. Can’t wait to get out but I know as this is the second time this has happened, as soon as they know you have more skills and experience (and they do if its on your resume but who wants to dumb down that?) they will just use you for everything you can give them and not compensate you properly.

27. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 2:53PM UTC

    I’m in my mid 50s, did that and regret it as am struggling now to get back to being more than admin. It’s not the work - it’s the way people behave toward me. When I did temp admin work years ago out of grad school I hated it then. It’s worse now as it’s compounded by gendered ageism. They will pay for the Volkswagen but you will be the Lamborghini.

28. AnonymousApril 18,2023 at 8:08PM UTC

    Good one..., and you are correct. I hated being an admin, helping college grads who couldnt write.

29. Lori CasoApril 16,2023 at 3:18PM UTC

    Any chance you can consult?

    I’m nearing retirement age and I’m considering consulting as a step before leaving the workforce.

    Just throwing it out there as an option, however we haven’t brought up health benefits and that is a consideration when making any decisions. I wish you better health - Lori

30. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 3:25PM UTC

    I just turned 60 and after having left my exec role due to unfair treatment. Considered stepping back as well. Then realized I am getting responses to applications for exec roles. As someone else said, working as an admin is a stressful role and often not treated with the utmost respect. I am going to continue seeking roles at my level as I would like to work for another 5-7 years. I am also keeping my options open to contract and consulting roles. I hope this is helpful.

31. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 3:29PM UTC

    I think it depends on what the new job entails. When I was a hiring manager and people in management applied for an individual contributor position, I wondered why but didn't ask and didn't hold it against them; though I did inquire if they would be happy as an individual contributor after being in management.

    Fast foward, I'm in my early 50s and after several management changes where I worked for over a decade, they made my life miserable and ultimately fired me. I took the opportunity to change to an area within my field I always wanted to work in - as an individual contributor- and was asked the same question during my interview that I used to ask.

    Honestly, after the last several years being miserable as a manager and trying to make a bad situation good, now in my mid-50s I'm perfectly happy to be able to learn something new and NOT be in management. Down the line I might change my mind and try to move into management if it feels right... but seriously no desire for it anytime soon.

    To sum up, stepping back doesn't necessarily mean sitting back. Changing from management to individual contributor in any type of job can actually be a great opportunity. Wishing you all the best!!

32. Julie Chatman, MBA, CISMApril 16,2023 at 4:03PM UTC

    Consulting can be a great option

33. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 6:27PM UTC

    I am honestly not sure how to get that started and how to replace the salary I was making as an executive. Any ideas or suggestions?

34. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 6:10PM UTC

    Have you thought about going the Administrative Consultant route? You can google specifics.

35. Bradford McCormickApril 16,2023 at 8:02PM UTC

    I don't know ehat they call it in business, but in the military thre are line and staff positions. You have been a line officer (yes?). Can you find a staff position that is not just an "admin position" (I presume "admin position" means something like secretary or clerical?)? Wouldn't you be happy using your talents and skills but with less pressureed responsibiity? Maybe a corporate recruiter in HR? Something responsible in PR?

36. AnonymousApril 16,2023 at 10:23PM UTC

    My story is a bit different. When I was 30 I moved to a small town. I had an executive position prior. Every job, regardless of what I applied for, I was turned down as over qualified. So I applied for a role in pharmacy. I got that position. I stayed in pharmacy for 27 years. Okay. Now I am DONE with pharmacy! Lol! So another switch. Now I am 57. I left Pharmacy in early winter. Decided to teach ski school again. Then early spring rolls around, I take a position with a landscape nursery. I have done that ever since. Now, I am 63, have moved to another state, an even smaller town. It has been difficult, however, I took a greenhouse point person position for at least the time being. I am already drawing my social security retirement to guarantee money for rent. And my position is seasonal part time. I had surgery July 2022, and I am finding this slowing down bit to be extremely helpful. I am getting paid for my "hobbys", which is like being on vacation! Just letting you know that stepping WAY down is doable if you want to take the leap! Good luck and best wishes with whatever you end up doing!

37. Nicola BanksApril 16,2023 at 10:45PM UTC

    If you're currently employed in a management position, have a chat with your current employer, maybe there is a way you can be accommodated within the business - ie: mentoring, coaching, business improvement.

    It might give you an opportunity you don't see.

    If you decide to take a step back - write why in your covering letter.

38. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 1:05AM UTC

    EA/Admin roles are complex and take more work than you may know. Many of us have Master's degrees and work on complex projects and support C-Suite executives. We are required to be present more than upper level so if you think it will allow you more time away from the job it will be the opppsite. We work extremely hard and at times long hours.

39. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 10:49AM UTC

    Could you just retire now? Your health is way more important. He should encourage you to do that and to go part time if not just retire.

40. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 1:02PM UTC

    Have you ever talked to an Admin about what they do? It's not an easy job and you definitely don't sit back in many of cases. You're supporting one or more people that can be very dependent upon you.

41. AnonymousApril 17,2023 at 6:56PM UTC

    Yes that is true it is not as easy to step back from the Admin role and it is the one that is most needed in the office on a regular basis and the admin has to be ready to change what they are doing at a moment's notice and being able to multi-task is key. It may not be the best option for the person who posted this question.

42. SueApril 18,2023 at 6:11PM UTC

    I would gladly talk to anyone who wants to know what i do. It is so much more than answering a phone and scheduling a simple meeting. I am a key part of the department and relied upon for getting many tasks done daily/weekly/monthly and ad-hoc.

43. Marcia SmithApril 18,2023 at 2:57PM UTC

    Do what is best for you! I am also in my mid-50s. My career has been in the nonprofit industry, mainly in various types of healthcare nonprofits. My career goal was to be an Executive Director, and I finally obtained that position - and I absolutely hated it. I lasted only a year and quit. I realized that I really don't want the hassle of managing people anymore. I have worked virtually for about 15 years. I have taken 2 jobs - 1 part-time and 1 full-time in lower positions - both in grants, where I love the work and excel. I can literally do 2 jobs in less time and with WAY fewer hassles than I could do 1 job in upper management. I am happier and have MUCH better life balance and very little drama and work stress.

    Prioritized what YOU need - not everyone will understand. I am SO SO SO glad that I took a step back and listened to my heart. My life is much better now. :)

44. AnonymousApril 19,2023 at 10:30AM UTC

    If you really like admin then YES do what makes you happy, but consider you may be paid less for doing more in admin. Thats my experience anyway.