Midlife Career Transition Myths

Susan Bryant is a contributing writer for Monster.com and the author of "Don't Stop the Career Clock". She has compiled the big three myths of midlife career changes.

Myth #1: I'm too old to make a career change.
Myth #2: If I make a career change, I'll be starting over at the bottom.
Myth #3: This old dog can't learn new tricks.

With regard to #1, is this your thinking or what you perceive how your friends and family will react? In response, Bryant notes that "some serious soul-searching is needed to understand how and why you want your career to change, so you'll have the conviction to stand up to others' disapproval."

In response to #2, don't take for granted that you'll be starting at a low level. "You're not the newbie you were when you entered the workforce. You've gained an impressive array of skills, plus you have professional wisdom and perspective acquired only through time. The key to bypassing entry-level status is to market these assets in your next interview." Bryant further notes that believing and convincing yourself of this value is critical for obtaining the position level and salary grades you desire.

As for #3, says who? You should be able to document new skills that you've recently learned and how continual change and learning was part of your past job and a skill set that you possess.

The only words of caution from Bryant are to give it time, keep your expectations realistic, and to know yourself (that is what you are good at, what you have a passion for doing, what your weaknesses are).

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