The Power of Reinvention Series: Career Transformation After 50 Unveiled

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:00:06

Well, hello gorgeous ladies and welcome to aging with grace in style. I'm Valerie. And this month, we're embarking on a special series entitled the power of reinvention. Each week in January. We're offering different facets of reinventing ourselves after 50, from starting anew to career changes, Hiding Wellness and Building Supportive Networks. Each episode builds on the next offering a comprehensive guide to embracing change and making the most of this exciting stage of life. So let's dive into today's topic and continue our journey of growth and transformation together. Hello, and welcome back, gorgeous ladies.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:00:51

Last week, we talked about embracing new beginnings and reinventing aspects of our lives that we want to enhance or change. Today, we're diving into a topic that sparks a lot of curiosity and sometimes a bit of apprehension. It's reinventing your career after 50. It's about turning the page to a new chapter in your professional life. One that aligns with your current passions and lifestyle this topic. And the strategies that I'm going to share are really close to my heart. As it merges my professional expertise with my passion for supporting and empowering women in their journey of transformation. Here's a bit about my background, which really informs today's discussion.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:01:44

I bring over 16 years of experience in human resources along with the master's degree in that field. So the insights and advice that we're going to explore today, they're not just theories. They're grounded in my professional experience, helping individuals navigate their career paths and personal growth. So, with all that being said, grab your favorite drink. I have mine. Settle in, and let's explore this siding world of career reinvention together. Changing careers or starting anew in the professional world can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially after 50. But it's also an incredible opportunity to align your work with your current passions and life goals, to help you navigate this transition.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:02:42

We're going to dive into our 5 strategies. These steps are designed to give you clarity direction, and hopefully the confidence that you need to make your move. So let's start with step 1, assess your current skills and interests. So picture yourself going through an old HS filled with experiences and skills. What treasures do you find? Maybe you're great at organizing or you have a knack for making people feel at ease, or perhaps you've always been interested in interior design, but you've never pursued suited professionally. This step is all about digging deep and discovering what makes you tick a both professionally and personally. So here's what you can do. Begin by taking stock of what you already bring to the table.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:03:44

What skills have you developed over the years? What are your strengths? But equally important. What are you passionate about? What excites you? Sometimes it's our hobbies and interest that can lead to the most fulfilling career path. Now on to step 2, research new career opportunities. Think of this as a treasure hunt. I'm sure we've all done treasure hunts, but you're not just browsing job listings. You're looking for clues about industries that excite you. Is the tech world calling your name? Or maybe it's the nonprofit sector. Talk to people in these fields, attend webinars or even volunteer.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:04:38

Remember, every bit of information is a clue that's leading you to your ideal career. So it's time to explore. What industries are growing? Where can your skills and interests align with these opportunities? Research doesn't mean just online searching. It also means talking to people in fields that you're interested in. It gives you a real sense of what these careers entail. Think outside the box. Many of my friends have launched online businesses or gone back to school or found some flexible roles that they love. Girl, the retirement stereotype about golfing and knitting, it simply doesn't apply anymore.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:05:32

Moving to step 3, update your professional toolkit. Now this isn't just about dusting off that old resume. It's about reinventing that resume. This means giving your resume a refresh, highlighting not just your past roles, but the skills that you bring to the table. Oh, and let's talk about your LinkedIn profile. Think of that as your personal billboard. Let it reflect your professional journey and where you want to go. It's about showcasing your skills, your experiences, and even your aspirations.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:06:12

And, hey, a good profile picture, it never hurts. Remember your resume and LinkedIn profile, they're often your first impression in today's job market. Now this makes me think about my friend, Karen. She was looking to shift from being a teacher to, a corporate trainer. Just think of the transferable skills between those 2 roles. So she updated her LinkedIn to focus on her skill in curriculum development and her ability to engage and motivate students. And guess what? Recruiters took notice, and she landed interviews in corporate training roles. Step 4 network and seek mentorship.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:07:05

Now I know networking can sound so intimidating. Like You're just trying to sell yourself, but let's reframe that. It's not about attending events. It's about building genuine Connections and Relationships. Share your stories and your aspirations. And mentors, mentors, they're like your career guides. They've walked the path and can offer invaluable insights and advice, seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. They could be in your desired industry, or even someone who has successfully made a career change.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:07:47

Don't underestimate the power of your existing network either, old colleagues and friends. They can be invaluable resources. Tap into your contacts or associations in online communities. Learn from those who have successfully changed careers after 50. You're not the only one to have ever thought about doing this. Let me share a real quick story about Tom, who after decades in accounting, he wanted to change. He wanted to shift.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:08:21

So he started attending local business events and reconnected with an old friend from college. Now this friend helped him navigate the transition to a role in nonprofit management, a field that Tom was passionate about, but he never knew how to break into it. Networking and mentorship, it opened the doors for Tom that he never thought were possible.

And finally step 5. Set realistic goals and action plans. This is about taking those big dreams and breaking them down into steps you can tackle. Want to start your own business? Well, then start by researching your market, and then maybe take a course in entrepreneurship.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:09:11

Make your career transition manageable, set clear and achievable goals. It's about building your dream one brick at a time. Before we close, let me tell you a story that I received from Carla. Y'all know I love when you write in with stories and share your experiences. This is about her experience with starting a restaurant at 55. Here's what she wrote. I spent 30 years in corporate sales, but always had a passion for food. My husband finally convinced me to take a leap of faith, a updating my business skills and finding a chef partner took some time, but now I'm living my dream.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:09:58

My advice is to create a roadmap and stay flexible. Thank you for the inspiration, Carla. And 8. We just heard a little planning and perseverance can go a long way when changing careers after 50. So y'all, this thing really does work. Now it takes some work, but it works. Embarking on a career reinvention after 50 is a journey of exploration and discovery.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:10:32

It's not just about finding a new way to work or even a new place to work. It's about finding work that resonates with who you are now, who you are at this stage of life. I am not the same person that I was 39 years ago when I started working in corporate America. And I'm sure you're not the same person that you were when you started on whatever career path that you are on now. Remember it's never too late to pursue a career that aligns with your passions and your lifestyle. I hope these 5 steps help guide you on your path. If you have a story to share, remember, I love stories about your career transition.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:11:24

Send them in. Or if you have a question, reach out. Y'all know you can find me on social at I am Valerie Hatcher or send me an email. Let's keep this conversation going. Until next time, stay inspired and remember, you're the author of your own life story. Now go make it a best seller. Thank you so much for joining me for 5 to thrive Tuesday. If you haven't already done so, please subscribe so that you don't miss an episode.

Valerie Hatcher [: 00:11:54

If you enjoyed this segment, please rate, review, and share it with a friend. Let's stay connected on Instagram, Facebook, and or threads at I am Valerie Hatcher, or email me at hello at aging with grace and style.com. Until next time, let's continue to age with grace, style, and a touch of sass.