Going the self-employment route later in your career often comes from wanting more freedom and flexibility and wanting to break away from the structured grind of traditional jobs. Being your own boss lets you set up shop in a way that fits your values and lifestyle.
Key reasons to choose self-employment
You’re considering self-employment but still not sure? Here are a few reasons why you might want to get serious about pursuing the next phase of your career on your own:
- Flexible work hours—Many mature workers choose self-employment to have the freedom to set their own work hours. After years of sticking to strict schedules, being able to decide when you work allows you to find a better balance between your professional and personal lives.
- Self-awareness and preferences—Your experience gives you a deep understanding of what you’re good at and the work environment that suits you best. Being self-employed gives you the freedom to tailor your approach to work, which leads to greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
- Impact of losing your job—Losing a job later in your career can be tough. There's ageism to contend with, and getting back into the workforce can be a real challenge. Self-employment is a chance for you to take back control of your career and financial future.
- Opportunity to share knowledge—Many mature workers crave a way to share the deep knowledge they’ve acquired over the years. You can do this by mentoring, consulting, or teaching—and possibly make a lasting impact in your industry or community.
Practical advice for self-employed mature workers
If you’re truly interested in taking the self-employment plunge as a mature worker, a few preparatory steps can help you clarify your decision and move forward with confidence:
- Assess your skills and expertise—Figure out what you're really good at and how that can translate into services clients will pay for. Find out what specific needs exist in your industry and how those needs match your skills. If you can do this well, you can carve out a niche for yourself.
- Network effectively—Use your existing professional contacts and actively seek out new connections to grow your client base. Networking may be your greatest marketing tool.
- Develop a business plan—Write a plan that outlines your goals, target market, pricing strategy, and how you'll market yourself. Think of it as your roadmap. Identify your ideal clients and get to know their needs and preferences. A solid business plan will help you stay focused.
- Invest in professional development—Keep up with industry trends in your niche. Sign up for professional development programs, which are offered at many universities.
- Seek guidance—Take advantage of resources tailored for mature workers, like career transition guides and workshops, to navigate the challenges of self-employment.
By taking these steps, you'll transform your skills and experience from a resume into a roadmap for a fulfilling and successful self-employed career.
Leverage your experience by consulting
If you’ve decided to move into self-employment as a mature worker, consider becoming a consultant. Consulting is a natural fit for people with deep experience. You’ve spent years navigating the twists and turns of the business world, and your wisdom is pure gold for clients looking to solve problems.
Keep some important things in mind to stay in tune with the times.
Stay current with technology and trends
While experience is a major advantage, staying abreast of technological advancements and industry trends is crucial for consulting success.
Mature workers can bridge any gaps by actively looking for online courses, workshops, and networking events that could improve their knowledge. This commitment keeps you competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Build a strong online presence
In today's digital era, having a solid online presence is essential for marketing to clients and establishing your credibility as a consultant. This means you need a professional website and you must be active on social media platforms. Find a way to showcase your expertise by being a thought leader. Being visible in these ways will show your expertise and build trust.
Networking online also opens up more opportunities and helps build long-lasting client relationships.
Self-employment offers mature workers a chance to find renewed fulfillment and independence in their careers. By leveraging your experience, embracing flexibility, and diving into consulting, you can carve out a successful path on your own terms.