Career Switch When You’re 40 and Above
Although switching careers when you are 40 and up may seem like a tough decision to make, some people do it so for several reasons. You may want to pursue your real passion and thus take up another career path. Or perhaps you are looking for something less strenuous and less demanding than your present job. Whatever your reasons may be, making the big switch when you’re older than forty is nevertheless possible.
Difficulties of switching to a new career when you’re 40
It is no secret how switching to a new career during midlife is much more difficult than doing so in your late twenties or mid-thirties. Age discrimination is common since there are companies that tend to prefer younger job candidates. There is also lesser opportunities for you to further your education as well. Most people at this stage in their lives also find it difficult looking for a new job and starting anew.
How to protect yourself against age discrimination
If you want to protect yourself against age discrimination in the job market, you need to be aware of your rights first of all. The ADEA or Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 provides protection to employees and job seekers aged 40 years and older in terms of hiring, promotion, compensation, and other privileges of employment. There are also fair employment agencies which seek to uphold the rights of employees and job applicants, so checking out the agencies near you may prove handy during dire circumstances.
Preparing for the career change
There are certain things you can do in order to prepare for career change successfully, especially when you’re older than 40. First off, take stock of your inventory skills, and as much as possible choose a career that you really see yourself enjoying.
Related Questions:
1. How can I file for an age discrimination complaint?
2. Where can I read up on age discrimination cases?
3. Are employers allows to demand mandatory retirement?
4. What are other age discrimination policies?
5. How difficult are age discrimination lawsuits?
Relates Posts:
Age Discrimination Law – What the age discrimination law implies
Age Discrimination – What the law says about age discrimination
Your Rights Against Age Discrimination – Looking into the rights of job seekers and employees against job discrimination
Wow! Thanks for your tip about that law on age discrimination for employment. However, I don’t know how we can deal with the issue easily since most employers already post an age bracket they prefer on their ads even before you can apply. I am 39… not yet 40 but I’m already finding it hard to really look for a job. I promised myself that I would only look for work or start a career once my youngest daughter turns 5 years old. I had this idea that I had to secure my kids’ first 5 years of life before I really get a job. However, I am finding it difficult to look for one not only because of the age bracket but also the skills attached to the requirements for good paying jobs. I guess the only really good option for me would be a business but that gets me stuck too because I don’t have the capital to build one that would be able to generate the income I need.