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Career Change During a Pandemic
I have worked in manufacturing for the past 26 years in 5 different industries. Due to the pandemic I lost my job in March 2020 with one company, and then I lost another job a week ago after working for only 5 months for the same reason. Both jobs netted me a 6 figure income. I am currently looking for employment, but I really do not want to work in manufacturing again. I guess I'm a little burned out and have some mental baggage about starting over again at age 52. I saw an opportunity to become an insurance agent and my own boss. It looks interesting, but I was wondering if it is a good idea to change careers at my age and during a pandemic?
Pamela Carter-TaylorProcess Improvement Professional
19
01/21/21 at 9:19PM UTC
Thanks everyone for your wise words of encouragement and advice. I am currently doing my homework, and talking to people who are working in the industry that I am thinking about switching over to. I agree with you all, this IS the best time to step out of my comfort zone........so onward and upward! Thanks again ladies!
Anonymous
01/16/21 at 5:06PM UTC
I love this discussion. Thanks ladies. I'm unemployed from COVID too and although I am not looking to change industries I have considered it before. I have a creative flair and always want to do something with it. However it was suggested that before making any change, find out the average salary for the industry/career you are considering. Are you ok with that? If so, go for it. It is possible. In my case, it was not worth it and I stuck to my path. I do have several fulfilling hobbies though so I've given up nothing! :)
Anonymous
01/16/21 at 6:52AM UTC
Lesa, thank you for posting this. You are telling my story! I was laid off due to COVID as well. I am 56 years old and have spent 22 years in the same profession. I was also earning six figures. I feel like my age and experience are almost working against me. I did not anticipate this when I started my job search. I am posting this so we can all support each other, know we are not alone, and continue to be strong!
Muriel Harley
57
01/15/21 at 7:22PM UTC
My dear, never let your age hold you back. Like fear, people can smell your self-imposed ageism.
Anonymous
01/15/21 at 2:26PM UTC
The pandemic offers an opportunity for a career change, especially if you lost your job. I lost my business because of the drastic drop in sales from the pandemic. Prior to the closing I was burned out and had been fantasizing about having a job with a salary and benefits. I'm 47 yo and am now going for my 3rd career change. Life's too short to stay in your comfort zone. Trying out a new career doesn't obligate you to stay in it. Warm wishes and good luck!
Anonymous
01/14/21 at 11:06PM UTC
I agree with Lesa. If you're excited at the idea of a career change and have other passions you want to pursue, I say go for it!
Do you know anyone in the industry you could talk to, or anyone who has recently made a career change from manufacturing? They may have helpful perspective!
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterTHE career expert for high achievers
4.13k
01/14/21 at 8:53PM UTC
Pamela: It's NOT a good idea to make this decision based on your age or the pandemic, but rather what's in your soul to do. Having said that, examine what is driving your desire to make a career change - is it excitement or fear? If it is the latter, I recommend some coaching around that fear because potential employers can smell it.
If you decide you are excited about changing careers and want to do so, figure out how to leverage your networking to help you as just applying to jobs online (especially when you don't have relevant experience) will typically put you at the bottom of the pile.
