Introduction

Guess what’s common between J.K. Rowling, Jack Dorsey, Jeff Bezos, and Jack Ma? Apart from being exceptionally successful in their respective careers, there’s a striking similarity between them — all of them pivoted their careers in their 30s!

Yes, you heard it right! There’s nothing wrong with starting, re-starting, or transitioning your career path even in your 30s.

Career change at 30 may seem like a huge challenge one needs to take on, but in reality, with smart choices, determination, and clarity — you can achieve great career success.

Perhaps you felt under-utilized at your current job, realized your true passion after your first few jobs, or simply wish to make a career change; remember that no age should be the stopping force in your career success.

In fact, more than half of the surveyed individuals in a research study confirmed that they are happier than ever and felt like a new person after a career change in their 30s.

So, are you ready to explore new professional horizons?

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about a career change at 30: Signs you need a career change, Steps to make a career change, and Tips to make the most out of your new career. Let’s dive in!

Signs You Need a Career Change at 30

While it’s often hard to point out the exact moment you decide to make a career transition, it’s almost evident in your mental health, work performance, and overall job satisfaction. Some of the most recognizable and unavoidable signs that you might need a career change at 30 are listed below.

• You dread going to work most days. If you find yourself feeling anxious or depressed on Sundays as you look ahead to the workweek, it could be a sign you need a career change. Waking up and not looking forward to your job is an indicator you may be in a misaligned career.

• You feel stagnant and bored in your current role. If you have stopped learning new things and you feel like every day is the same at your job, it might mean it's time to challenge yourself with a career change. Doing mundane tasks over and over can lead to feeling unengaged.

• You daydream about doing something else for a living. If you often catch yourself fantasizing about starting your own business or changing job fields — pay attention to it. These could be a sign that your current career is not the right fit and you might want to consider making a change.

• Your mental health starts deteriorating. If you feel chronic stress, lack of motivation, and a lack of well-being; in no time it will start affecting your confidence — eventually leading to inadequate lifestyle choices, decreased productivity, and shattered work-life balance.

Ask Yourself These Questions Before a Career Change

Now that you know you need a career change, it’s time to ask yourself these five questions for a better understanding of your skills and strength, and if you’re serious about a career change before jumping the guns.

• Am I feeling creatively and intellectually stimulated in my current job?
• Is my workload manageable or does it frequently feel overwhelming?
• What transferable skills could be applied if I changed job fields?
• Would I earn enough money to cover my financial obligations if I changed careers?
• Do I have solid contacts and networks if attempting to switch industries?

If you were able to confidently answer most of these questions, it might be a sign for you to switch your career. However, we do not recommend solely depending on these questions, instead seeking career counselling from experienced counsellors and then making the decision.

8 Steps to Make a Career Change at 30

Making a career change at 30 can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it feel more achievable.

With some self-reflection, planning, and persistence, you can pivot successfully. Here’s our researched-backed and actionable 8-step game plan to ace your career change.

• Assessing Your Current Job Situation

  Start by analyzing what is currently lacking that has you feeling dissatisfied. Make a list of the pros and cons of your work. If the cons outweigh the pros, investigate why you feel out of place and why you want to make a move now in your 30s. Getting clarity sets the intention, and the right intention will help you speed up your decision-making.

• Pinpointing Your Skills, Interests, and Passion

  Next, tap into skill assessment tools and psychometric tests to hone in on your strengths and what occupations might better utilize your attributes. Understanding your passions helps align your purpose. Career psychometric tests help you take a closer look at your alignment with the desired job role, function, and domain.

• Outlining Your Career Roadmap

  Here comes the most crucial step of your career change. Research how people have switched into roles you are exploring. Speaking with career counsellors and coaches gives insight into transferable skills you likely already have like communication, time management and adaptability. Outlining actionable steps creates a roadmap for your career success.

• Researching Careers and Narrowing Down Options

  Networking is critical to dive deeper into new career options. Join professional associations and online communities to connect with people in careers you are considering. Ask questions and review job boards to see requirements and responsibilities. Narrow down a few concrete choices before blindly mass-applying to job boards.

• Optimizing Your Resume and CV

  Optimize and revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight relevant experiences for your career pivot. Learn resume best practices from industry experts, and if you require assistance in crafting your resume for high visibility and increased employability, SetMyCareer experts are here to guide you through exceptional CV writing.

• Getting Hands-on Experience by Building Your Skills

  Research well and determine if added certifications, courses, or training will smooth your transition. Consider taking up roles like volunteer work or freelancing that allow you to try out new fields and gain hands-on experience. You can also prepare yourself for building new skills or upskilling with a little help from these tips.

• Budgeting for Your Transition

  Another crucial step while changing your career is to be financially prepared for the unknown. Saving up to cover periods of less or uncertain income can ease stress. Budgeting for expenses, accounting for possible dips in salary, and building emergency funds can come in handy while pivoting your career. Having resources covers you as you get off the ground.

• Breaking Into a New Career Field

  Once your ducks are in a row, start actively networking, applying, and interviewing with your dream career. It takes courage to make a career change in your 30s but know that bringing your maturity, knowledge, and passion speaks volumes. Landing that first opportunity kickstarts your exciting new career journey!

Pros and Cons of Making a Career Change in Your 30s

With every career decision you make in life — there are bound to be a few challenges — coupled with the excitement and prosperity it brings. Here is a side-by-side comparison of making a career change in your 30s.

End Notes

Kudos! We’re so proud of you for being with us thus far — it shows your genuine interest and dedication towards making a career change even in your 30s. A career transition may bring cloudy weather of uncertainties and fear over you, but remember to persist through the process and be willing to start afresh.

Don’t forget to tap into your passion and interests, utilize your strengths, and ensure your new career aligns with your evolving values and needs.

Looking for guidance and direction for this big change? SetMyCareer experts are here to help you find your true north.