Ten steps to prepare yourself for a career 50+

The world of work has changed over our lifetime and we also have two factors impacting this significantly for the Boomer generation. Living longer and technology are changing the way we need to plan. It is important to understand these changes to be successful. If we have not saved enough, we can plan to work longer and draw down on investments later. Find out your retirement age if you are still involved in the corporate sector. Is there any chance that you may need to leave before this date? You may already be outside of the corporate world either as an entrepreneur or looking for work.

The corporate world is a fast paced new world and in many cases they are not looking to employ anyone over 50 unless you have a scarce skill. Stop sending your CV out.
Do you know how much money you have invested for retirement and what your outstanding debts are? It is a key factor in ensuring that you understand this to make an informed decision about your future. Sit with a financial planner to ensure that you know how much you have and how long it will last.
Take some time to think about your work life journey and where your success points were. What skills have you developed and what are you passionate about?
Read as much as you can about the changing world of work and where the possible opportunities may be. In many cases there have been major shifts.
Make sure that you take the time to learn and grow your technology skills and start to engage with social media.
Build a profile on LinkedIn and other social media channels and learn to network both online and offline. Many of the possible connections and solutions may come via someone you know.
Make a list of possible opportunities and do some dip stick market research with friends and family to understand if there is a possible opportunity in the market place.
If you are starting a business, register through all the legal and tax structures needed as well as buying a website domain.
Volunteer in your area of passion and skill. In this way you may build up the possibility of some paid for work once they see your value and know you.
This process takes time, passion and energy. We are often blind to the possibilities. Work with a career coach to help manage the process.