Changing careers at age 51.......any suggestions please

Question

after 25 years in the field of early childhood education i've decided to change careers. but i'm not sure what that career should be. i have 30 credits in ece plus the 25 years experience but that doesn't seem to be getting me anywhere. i have applied for receptionist, admin ast, general office assistant jobs and have not done well securing a position. i am considering returning to college to get an associates degree but i'm not sure what field to enter. i am considering a degree in admin offic assistant or human resources. i'd like opinions of anyone who is in either field and what they think about the options of changing to either of those fields and is an associates really required? thanks for the help.

Answer 1

Keep trying.  Sometimes the 25 years of experience scares people because they want to train someone to their ways.  Take a few more college classes. Talk to a career counselor about your job choices and the required education.  Many colleges have career counselors and advisers to help you.

Answer 2

Congratulations on taking this big step.  I realize you may not have the luxury of time as you make some important decisions in your life. However, when making this type of change you may want to consider what it is you like to do.  This may help you determine what it is you would like to return to college to study.

I have been in human resources benefits for almost 20 years and breaking into the field will vary based on the organization.  You may want to reach out to some of the nonprofits in your area to see what they have available in the field of HR.  They may not offer huge salaries, but they usually make-up for it in personal time-off offered.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

Go and register with a staffing agency.  I have been working in the staffing industry for over 25 years - we place people by skills and ability, not by past job history.  We bring people into our office, evaluate their skills and then match their skills to our open jobs orders.

You would be surprised how many company's use staffing agencies to fill their open positions.    

Good Luck!