WSJ's Career Journal's "How to Switch Careers Midlife"

Middle age job seekers know that switching jobs in midlife is very different (make that daunting) than finding that first career. To help the transition here are six suggestions from the WSJ's Career Journal (excerpted):

Square One

"The first step is to assess yourself and what you're looking for," says Emily Allen, manager of the Workforce Initiative Program at AARP, formerly the American Association of Retired Persons. For older workers, it's often "the first time in life that they can consider what they want to do rather than what they need to do."

Career Coaches

Many job seekers also are hiring career coaches for help in identifying new fields and applying for new jobs. These advisers often have an advanced degree in counseling, human resources or psychology and typically charge about $100 an hour.

Look for someone who is certified by groups such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs or the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates. Ask about experience with career changes.

Counselors say working with a professional can keep you focused and upbeat.

Testing the Waters

Job counselors typically begin the process by interviewing clients about their interests and by administering tests to identify natural aptitudes and potential fields of work.

One commonly used tool is the Myer-Briggs Type Indicator, which classifies different aspects of people's personalities.

Digging Deeper

After identifying potential fields, a good place to start on further research is the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook.

The guide provides information about salaries, educational requirements and job opportunities. It is available at libraries, job-placement centers and online.

Get Out There

Professional associations are a good place to meet people and to learn about potential jobs.

Also, see if you can spend time shadowing someone in a field you are considering. Ron Roge, who became an independent financial adviser after almost 20 years at a telephone company, has sometimes invited others considering a similar move to observe a typical day at his Bohemia, N.Y., firm.

Job counselors also recommend volunteering in a field to get a better understanding of the work. For instance, if you are thinking about becoming a high-school teacher, look for opportunities to work with teens in a community or school organization. If you're thinking about construction, organizations such as Habitat for Humanity need volunteers to build homes.

Other Options

Particularly if you've already left a job, working for a temporary-staffing company can be a way to try something new. For instance, Kelly Services provides free testing, job training and placement services in temporary and permanent positions.

Take particular care if you are thinking about starting a new business, particularly if it's your first. Don't leave your day job without a business plan and enough cash for living expenses.

This post is part of LifeTwo's Midlife Career Change FAQ covering all aspects of changing careers in middle age.