To help us answer this is career coach, Natalie Trice.
Natalie is a Career Coach for PR professionals, PR Mentor and Trainer for Small Business Owners, and a Guest Lecturer for UK Universities.
Before adding ICF accredited training to her portfolio of first class services, Natalie has worked for some of the biggest global brands, most dynamic UK businesses, and some pretty exceptional entrepreneurs.
For 23 years MS&L, Cartoon Network, CNN, Discovery Channel, Epson, Animal Planet, Earthwatch, Betty Crocker, TM Lewin, Sense, and the Talented Ladies Club were just some of the brands Natalie had the privilege to work with and represent, and she loved her work.
From Tom and Jerry launches on Red Square, to James Cameron premieres in Amsterdam, and touring Europe with a team of animators and hanging out at media parts across the world with some amazing contacts, Natalie’s been there, done that, got the t-shirts, as well as the awards and the coverage.
DON’T FORGET – IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR US – WHETHER IT BE ABOUT WORK RELATIONSHIPS, GAINING CONFIDENCE, OR TAKING THE LEAP INTO TECH – YOU CAN ASK US ANYTHING.
Hello SheCanCode,
I’ve just turned 53 and am feeling like I need a change! I’m no longer motivated in my current role, and I’ve been looking at possibly transitioning into a career in tech. I’ve enrolled on a coding boot camp and have really been enjoying this but am looking for some reassurance that this is the right thing to do.
Do you have any advice or tips on taking the plunge into a new industry? Especially at such a late stage in life – is it too late?
Tech Transitioner
HELLO TECH TRANSITIONER,
I am so excited to hear that you are considering a career transition and please know that 53 is by no means too late to embark on such a journey, just imagine where this could take you.
As a starting point embrace your experience and know that your previous work experience will bring valuable skills and perspectives to your new career. Don’t underestimate the transferable skills you’ve acquired over the years, such as problem-solving, communication, leadership, and time management and highlight these when seeking new opportunities, be that on your CV, LinkedIn, when you are networking and at interviews.
Speaking of networking, this is a time to contact your professional and personal network and tell them about your plans and vision. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, connections, and insights, so go to industry events, join online communities, and engage with others who share your interests.
You mention the coding boot camp, so it is good to see you are continuously learning because we all know that the tech industry is constantly evolving. Embrace a growth mindset and be willing to learn new technologies, languages, and frameworks. Keep up with industry trends, take online courses, attend workshops, and participate in coding challenges and be open to new ideas and opportunities.
As you progress through your coding bootcamp or start working on your own projects, build a portfolio to showcase your skills and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers. This could include personal projects, open-source contributions, or even freelance work. As you do this you may want to look for a mentor in the tech industry who can provide advice, share their experiences, and help you your new field.
I would remind you to be realistic and patient because changing careers takes time and effort, but it’s totally possible to do this.
Set realistic goals and celebrate your small wins and embrace the learning process with a positive mental attitude and keep motivated by envisioning the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead, maybe creating a vision board so you can see where you are heading.
Remember, age is just a number, and many successful professionals have made significant career transitions later in life.
With dedication, a passion for learning, and a proactive approach, you can thrive in the tech industry.
Good luck on your journey and let us know how it goes.
Natalie
