Transferable Skills Matter More Than You Think
Leveraging Transferable Skills to Pivot in Your Career After 50
Are you in your 50s and feeling the itch to reinvent your career? You’re not alone. In fact, if you’re wondering whether it’s possible to pivot professionally after decades in a certain field—let me assure you, it is. I know this because I’ve done it myself, and I’ve helped others do the same. Reinvention isn’t only possible; it’s often the most fulfilling decision you’ll ever make.
Why Transferable Skills Matter More Than You Think
After 20+ years in corporate leadership, I found myself feeling unfulfilled despite a successful career. I knew it was time to take my expertise and apply it to something more personally meaningful. What I learned along the way is that transferable skills—the abilities you’ve honed in any life or professional setting—are your biggest assets for reinvention. You don’t need to start from scratch; instead, you can leverage what you already know and reframe it for a new purpose.
For instance, after managing high-stakes responsibilities in corporate roles, I realized I had already developed strategic thinking, project management, and resilience—skills that became the foundation of my own coaching business. Here’s how you can identify and use your transferable skills to pivot toward a fulfilling new path.
1. Identify Your Core Skills (Even If They Don’t Feel Obvious)
If you’re unsure where to start, begin by reflecting on your past experiences. Think about the challenges you’ve overcome, the responsibilities you’ve managed, and the achievements you’ve accomplished. Ask yourself:
What have I done that required strategic thinking or problem-solving?
In what ways have I shown adaptability and resilience in my personal and professional life?
What types of leadership or communication skills have I developed?
For example, caregiving experience often involves patience, time management, and crisis navigation. If you’ve juggled a household or supported a loved one through difficult times, you’re likely a natural project manager with empathy—a skill set that’s invaluable in almost any field.
2. Translate Skills into New Roles
Once you’ve identified your skills, consider how they might apply to other areas. Skills like effective communication, strategic thinking, and team leadership are in demand across industries, from consulting to entrepreneurship. Think about roles where these skills are essential and consider ways to “package” your expertise in a way that resonates with potential employers or clients in your new area.
When I decided to leave my corporate job to start my coaching business, I realized my knowledge in corporate systems, management, and people operations gave me a unique angle. I leveraged that expertise to create a program specifically aimed at helping leaders in transition.
3. Reframe Your Mindset Around Value, Not Age
The biggest barrier isn’t usually a lack of skills—it’s often self-doubt, especially for those pivoting careers later in life. Many people over 50 worry about being “too old” for certain opportunities. Don’t let that myth hold you back. Instead, frame your age and experience as an advantage, highlighting your proven track record, resilience, and depth of understanding. You’re bringing more to the table than you might realize, and hiring managers or clients will value this if you can position it confidently.
4. Commit to Lifelong Learning and Growth
One of the best ways to stay relevant and competitive is by embracing a growth mindset. Whether it’s taking a class, getting a certification, or attending a workshop, don’t hesitate to invest in yourself. This doesn’t mean you have to learn a whole new industry from scratch, but rather that you might want to enhance your existing skillset to match industry needs.
For example, as I transitioned into coaching, I decided to get certifications in leadership and personal development coaching to solidify my expertise and build credibility in my new field. Continual learning shows you’re invested in your success, no matter your age.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Chapter
Here’s a quick roadmap to help you apply these concepts:
Reflect on Your Skills: Write down at least five transferable skills you’ve developed in your career and personal life.
Visualize Your Pivot: Think about roles, projects, or businesses where these skills would be valuable. Research what’s out there.
Start Small: Take a workshop, work with a coach, or volunteer in a role aligned with your new direction to start building relevant experience.
Network with Purpose: Connect with others who have transitioned into similar roles to gain insights and advice on navigating this path.
My Journey Shows It’s Possible—And Yours Will Too
If I’ve learned anything from my own career pivot, it’s that success in a new field is absolutely possible at any age. When I decided to walk away from a stable corporate job, it was intimidating, but focusing on my transferable skills gave me the confidence to forge ahead. Each of us has a lifetime of experience, and that’s an asset—not a hindrance.Take that first step. Start exploring how your hard-won skills can bring you fulfillment and purpose in your next career chapter. Reinvention may seem daunting, but the opportunities are waiting if you choose to see them.
– Licia Thompson-Young 🌿 CPC, ELI-MP
Leadership & Personal Growth Coach | Reinvention Expert | Workshop Facilitator
PS: Message me if you’re ready to REINVENT your life after 50. Together, we’ll find a way to quiet the noise and create a clear plan for the next chapter of your life.