For women climbing the ladder in corporate America, the professional landscape can often feel unsafe. You’re forced to balance ambition with perceived femininity, leadership with likability and navigate with the looming shadow of ageism. There are various cultural avenues that deem women disposable after 40, and corporate America is no exception. Careers are an interesting space for mature women daring to pivot, reinvent and grow. 

Many face barriers, including being passed over for promotions, overlooked in meetings or being told they’re “too experienced” for new roles. Yet, their resilience remains untouchable. Despite these hurdles, there are countless women who are rewriting their narratives and reclaiming their professional lives midlife. These women are proving that 40 isn’t a deadline. Instead, it’s only the beginning. If you find yourself ready to make a big change, then here’s what to know.

Reasons to Pivot Careers

There are countless valid and empowering reasons to pivot careers at 40. None of them need to be justified to anyone, but yourself. Here are some common reasons why you may find yourself longing for change:

  • Burnout or lack of fulfillment: A high-paying job doesn’t mean it’s a meaningful one. Many women hit their 40s realizing they want more purpose and less stress.
  • Life changes: From going through a divorce to becoming an empty nester, life has a way of shifting your perspective and your priorities.
  • New passions or skills: Women never stop getting to know themselves. Passions that weren’t on your radar in your 20s can emerge at any point, inspiring you to make a change.
  • Desire for flexibility: Whether it’s remote work, entrepreneurship or better work-life balance, flexibility becomes a higher priority for many women at midlife.
  • Toxic work environments: Sometimes, the best reason to pivot is to escape an ecosystem that doesn’t value your voice or potential.

Is Pivoting Careers at 40 Too Late?

There’s no reason why a woman should feel apprehensive about pivoting careers at 40. Choosing a different career in your older years is not only possible, but it’s often strategic.

By this stage, you’ve built invaluable skills, networks, emotional intelligence and resilience. This makes you an asset beyond all else. Many hiring managers and clients prefer working with seasoned professionals who can bring maturity and perspective to the job.

With the rise of remote work and an emphasis on transferable skills, career pivots are easier than ever. There are countless inspiring success stories of women who changed careers. If they can do it, then know you can do it, too.

How to Successfully Pivot Careers at 40

Audit Your Transferable Skills

Take the time to identify the strengths you’ve developed professionally, like leadership, communication or project management. Then, map out how they apply to your desired field.

Invest in Your Ability

Thanks to the digital age, expanding your ability is easy and accessible. Online courses, certifications or even part-time study can boost your credibility in a new industry.

Revamp Your Personal Brand

You’re reintroducing yourself to the world, so it’s important to be thorough. Refresh your LinkedIn profile, update your resume and craft a narrative that connects your past experience to your new goals.

Network Strategically

You’ll need to get familiar with some new contacts. Make the effort to join industry groups, attend webinars and connect with people already in the field you’re targeting. 

Start Small

Rome wasn’t built in a day. Freelance, consult or volunteer in your new field to gain hands-on experience and build a portfolio. You’ll ascend to new heights in no time.

Work With a Career Coach

There are plenty of professionals who can lend a guiding hand when it comes to navigating such a major change. A career coach can help clarify your vision, boost your confidence and navigate obstacles along the way.

Sustaining Longevity in Your Career

A successful pivot isn’t just about deciding your next move. It’s about creating a sustainable, fulfilling career for the long haul. Here’s how to protect your momentum:

  • Prioritize wellness: Navigating a masculine space can make you neglect your feminine. Mental, emotional and physical health are the foundation of long-term success.
  • Keep learning: It’s important to stay curious and adaptable. You’re always a student and new tools, trends and technologies are always emerging.
  • Build a supportive network: Surround yourself with mentors, peers and allies who believe in your potential and push you to grow.
  • Define your own success: Let go of archaic metrics. Success at 40 and beyond can look like freedom, creativity, impact or all three.