4 guidelines to start over your career later in life

News24

18-06-2025

Dire economic climates and the changing world of technology can force people to reevaluate their career paths.
An expert advises bridging roles and targeting smaller organisations when looking for a new role.
Take advantage of every professional contact you've made.
______________________________________________________________________
The rise of technological and artificial intelligence advancements has seen companies - and the world at large - change where a lifelong tenure at a single company is a thing of the past.
Let's not sugar coat it, this evolving landscape is tough and requires sacrifice, but the good news is that it's possible to make a success of an entirely new career later in life.
Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at Jack Hammer, Africa's largest executive search firm, says, 'A non-linear career can be described as a work history that does not follow a single, continuous path within one field or role. It involves shifts, breaks, or transitions between unrelated industries or job types.'
'In the past, people would mostly stick to a relatively predictable path throughout their careers – moving steadily up the ladder in their chosen field, or branching out into proximate roles. In the last few years, however, this model has been turned on its head, for a variety of reasons including but not limited to the impact of the pandemic, global and local economic volatility, and the impact of AI.'
Examples of people forced to develop a plan B later in life
These include women re-entering the workforce after homemaking, workers retrenched because of technological disruption or plain old economic factors affecting their industries and athletes and sportspeople whose professional careers are dwindling.
Struggling to see where you fit in the working world? Advaita advises four guidelines for non-linear career success:
1. Consider a bridging role
A bridging role is a strategic stepping stone - a position that helps you transition into a new industry or function by starting at a foundational level.
Look for entry or mid-level opportunities such as an operations or supply chain role in retail, or a project coordinator position in a commercial team, where you can learn the fundamentals, adapt to the new environment and gradually build your expertise. This approach enables you to gain industry knowledge, establish credibility and develop the skills needed for future advancement.
2. Make your case
Whatever your circumstances and career history, you must be able to articulate your value with confidence.
Advaita shares, 'When crafting your motivation, build a clear, logical narrative and arrive ready to sell yourself. Confidence is key. If you want a hiring manager to see how your non-linear path will add value, make sure you believe it first.'
3. Target smaller organisations
Large corporations mostly have rigid hiring criteria and a large selection of applicants who tick every box. Smaller organisations such as startups, mid-sized firms or local businesses can be more flexible, offering a chance to shine.
'Smaller companies often need versatile players. Your tech background, for instance, might help a small healthcare firm digitise processes, while your growing commercial skills boost their sales,' says Advaita.
'Smaller environments are more likely to let you wear multiple hats and develop a wider range of skills. So take time to research local or niche firms in your target industry, and apply for roles where your diverse and transferable skills will add immediate value.'
4. Make your contacts count
Your personal and professional network is a powerful tool to bypass the barriers of a non-linear career, Advaita explains.
'Hiring managers and automated systems often filter out resumes that don't fit conventional patterns, but a trusted contact can open doors. Reach out to former colleagues, managers or clients who can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and adaptability. For instance, if you worked in manufacturing and a past coworker now thrives in financial services, ask them to recommend you or introduce you to key players.'
Advaita concludes, 'Join professional organisations, attend industry events, join online forums (e.g. LinkedIn groups for healthcare or finance professionals) or participate in workshops to meet people in your target field. A personal endorsement carries significant weight and contacts humanise your story, turning a 'risky' non-linear resume into a compelling case for hiring.'