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Hi, Im 53 and would like to change my job because i need a more challenging job the job i am in now has no room for advancement which i would like to do have been here 3 years now and they do not advance you from within they hire from the outside for new jobs. I seem to be in a so i would like a job change if it is possible for someone at my age to get hired for a new job im getting in a rut and it is boring i am a person who likes to be busy at work. I am in the warehouse supervisory business. Do you think it is wise at my age to start looking for a new Job or should i stay where i am happy or not?

— Albos

Dear Albos,

 

 

 

Thanks for writing with a question that many boomers face in thinking about their current situation. Deciding whether to stay where you currently are working or look for another position requires you to think about questions that do not have easy yes or no answers.

 

 

 

It appears that you have already thought about what you do not like about your current position. I would encourage you to also think about what you do like about your job – I have watched many folks change jobs and fix what was wrong with their former position but then find they miss some of the positives from that job. Look back at prior jobs for more information on what makes a good job situation for you – it sounds like having a variety of challenging activities and a chance to be promoted are important to you. What else would you look for in your next job?

 

 

 

 

Have you explored your marketability in the warehouse supervisory business? Do you have the necessary experience and education to be considered for other positions in the field? Does your company hire from the outside because they are looking for education or skills that you could acquire, allowing you to then be considered for a promotion? While age can affect marketability, it is even more important to have the skills and experience that employers are seeking. Are you currently earning above or below what is typical for your work? Talk to some others working in warehouse supervision to gather this information, as well as look at Internet job postings.

 

 

 

Timing is an important consideration. I often ask “If you stay six more months in your current position, what will you gain, learn or accomplish?” Think about when you could leave your current position without burning a bridge. Leaving during an especially busy time at the warehouse may make it difficult to get a good reference in the future. Take stock of your personal life. Looking for another position takes time and energy and it is helpful to have the support of family and friends.

 

I always encourage clients to consider what will happen if their boss finds out they are looking for another position, not to frighten anyone away from looking but to be realistic about the risks. Gathering information and searching for a position can be done by asking those you speak with to respect that your job search is confidential.
 

 

 

There are probably other questions to consider which are more specific to your individual situation, but hopefully this gives you a start. At 53, if you will be working (like most of us) until you are 67, 14 more years in a job that is boring and lacking in advancement opportunities seems like a long haul. With careful thought and information gathering, you can arrive at a decision either to stay and make some changes in your current situation or look for another position that is a better fit for you.

 

 

 

Good luck to you and we appreciate your visiting our site.

Answered by Beth Wilson