Career Change at 50: You're Not Done. You're Just Getting Started
Did you lose your job at 50, but don’t feel that you’re finished? This guide is for you. Below, we’ll help you navigate the realities of a career change at 50, and share advice on how to navigate this new chapter.
The reality of late career loss
The hidden cost of late-career job loss is real. You're not too old to pivot, but too experienced to start over.
You expected more freedom by now.
Maybe you dreamed of cutting back to part-time, stepping into a mentorship role, or finally doing work that feels meaningful. But instead, you’re dealing with something you didn’t see coming: a job loss in your 50s or 60s—and no clear path forward.
It’s a scenario more common than you think. Layoffs, restructurings, and economic downturns are increasingly affecting seasoned professionals—often those who’ve given decades to their fields. And while it’s rarely talked about, the cost of job loss at this stage in life is significant—and deeply personal.
Why job loss in your 50s hits harder
Mid-to-late career job loss doesn’t just affect your income today—it can derail your long-term financial stability and personal sense of purpose. You may still have dependents, debt, or retirement goals that suddenly feel out of reach. And the longer you’re out of the workforce, the harder it becomes to re-enter on your own terms.
The emotional toll can be equally tough:
Feeling undervalued despite your experience
Wondering whether you’ve “aged out” of the market
Struggling to find your footing in a rapidly evolving job landscape
This isn’t just a setback. It’s a moment of reinvention—one that requires both strategy and self-awareness.
What to do if you’ve lost your job in your 50s
While losing your job in your 50s is emotional and stressful, there is a path forward. Remember, you have a long career of experiences and accomplishments under your belt that you can use to navigate this latest challenge.
I always recommend these steps to my career coaching clients when they experience late career job loss.
Pause—but Don’t Stall. Take a short breather to process what happened—but don’t let too much time pass without action. The longer you wait, the more confidence (and momentum) you can lose.
Reframe the Narrative. You didn’t just “lose a job.” You’ve built a legacy of knowledge, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Reframing your story is key to positioning yourself for what’s next.
Do a Career Inventory. What parts of your work have energized you? What strengths have repeatedly led to results? Get clear on what you want more of—and what you’re ready to leave behind.
Update Your Brand and Materials. Your resume, LinkedIn, and professional bio may no longer reflect who you are or the value you bring. Focus less on job titles and more on outcomes, leadership, and transferable skills.
Start Networking with Purpose. Many seasoned professionals feel embarrassed to reach out for help—but relationships are often the fastest way back to meaningful work. Let people know what you’re looking for, and how they can help.
Don’t Settle. Just because a role pays the bills doesn’t mean it’s aligned with your goals or value. Know your worth—and be selective.
It’s a tough situation. But you’re more resilient than you think. Take a breath, and create a plan to get yourself back on your career path. And if you need some help, we’re always here for you.
The good news: you’re not starting from scratch
This isn’t the end of your career story—it’s a new chapter. With the right strategy and support, many professionals find that their late-career transition leads to some of the most fulfilling work of their lives.
Whether you're exploring a second act, returning to the workforce, or pivoting to something new, you deserve to feel confident, purposeful, and valued again.
👉 Watch our free training video now to learn how to reposition your value and land a role that aligns with your experience and purpose.
