LinkedIn expert on the best age to change career – and the things you should NEVER do

While many people often think about a career change, finding the courage to switch up your job at any age or stage is tricky.

But there are times which are better for changing your career, and others that aren’t as well suited.

Speaking to FEMAIL, LinkedIn and careers expert, Sue Ellson, revealed the best age to switch jobs, how you can navigate the move and the things you should never do.

‘The best way to change careers is not overnight, but gradually,’ Sue told Daily Mail Australia.

Here, FEMAIL takes a look at her top tips.

Speaking to FEMAIL, LinkedIn and careers expert, Sue Ellson, revealed the best age to switch jobs, how you can navigate the move and the things you should never do (stock image)

THE BEST AGE TO MOVE

While Sue said that there is not necessarily a best age to change jobs, rather a time, there are some that are more common than others:

Sue (pictured) said she sees many people change jobs straight after kids or when they hit age 45

Sue (pictured) said she sees many people change jobs straight after kids or when they hit age 45

‘I have seen many people change their careers after they’ve had children – in the 30 to 40 age bracket,’ she told FEMAIL.

‘Another popular period is once a parent’s children is older – in the 45 to 55 age range.’

The LinkedIn expert said that people without kids might be most likely to travel and consider changing careers when they are away.

‘Before changing jobs, you need to do your research,’ she added.

‘Talk to people in the industry or the roles you are interested in and scope out the opportunities and pitfalls.’

‘Most careers are only ever likely to reach 80 per cent of perfect, even the ideal career, so it’s important to be realistic about how a career change will change your life.’

When it comes to navigating a career move, the expert said you should research the industry you're moving to and weigh up the pros and cons before moving (stock image)

When it comes to navigating a career move, the expert said you should research the industry you’re moving to and weigh up the pros and cons before moving (stock image)

HOW TO NAVIGATE A CAREER MOVE

When it comes to actually changing jobs, your research should start generally and end up more specific.

‘Start with general information on the industry or profession and gain reliable data and information, and follow this up with individual conversations with different people who have different perspectives,’ Sue said.

Next, she said you could consider working with a career development practitioner – who can help you ‘find options and give you clues on how to transition in a way that works for you’.

The LinkedIn expert also said you should take personal responsibility for the outcome, as your life isn’t down to friends and family.

‘If you make a mistake, remember the lesson, not the disappointment, pick yourself up and try again,’ she added.

How to spice up your LinkedIn profile to catch the attention of employers 

1. Update your photograph and background image: LinkedIn profiles with photos are 14 times more likely to be viewed. Choosing a photo to represent yourself to potential employers can be difficult but Sue Ellson said there are a few things to keep in mind. ‘Your photo should be recent (within the last three to five years) and complement your written text,’ she said. ‘Keep your face towards the top of the circle and include enough clothing so that your face is framed and the focus is on your eyes rather than your neck or chest.

2. Complete your headline and include something memorable: ‘Think very carefully about the words that people may use to search for someone with your skills, knowledge and networks,’ Sue said. ‘You have 120 characters for your headline (directly under your name) and a few more if you update your headline on your mobile device.’ Use important words at the beginning and finish off with something memorable.

3. Fill in as many sections as possible: Sue explained LinkedIn profiles that are 100 per cent completed and include a person’s education, certifications, languages and awards are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn. Fill in all of the sections you can.

4. Showcase your digital competency: Ensure your profile is public and that you’re giving and receiving recommendations. ‘It is no longer good enough to be digitally literate, you need to be digitally competent,’ she said.

5. Give good signals: What you post, comment on and like will be viewed by others and should always be professional. Photos of late night drinks with colleagues or irrelevant content to your profession shouldn’t be posted on LinkedIn. 

WHAT YOU SHOULD NEVER DO WHEN CHANGING JOBS

Last but not least, Sue revealed what you should never do when changing jobs. 

‘Never do anything hastily – like resigning tomorrow and starting without a job,’ she said.

‘Your dwindling bank balance will not help you make logical decisions and you may be tempted by the wrong offer.’

Similarly, she said you shouldn’t accept opportunities that are not in writing:

‘You need to know what exactly is on offer first,’ she said.

Lastly, you shouldn’t take the first thing that comes along.

‘If you are really clear on what you want and you have done the preparation, if it is not the right offer, then say no and keep going – provided you can survive financially,’ Sue concluded.



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