Recent data shows that a record 10.9 million people over the age of 50 are now working in the UK—and for 72% of them, achieving a better work-life balance is their top priority. While the idea of career changes after 50 may still raise eyebrows, the appetite for flexible roles that support travel and lifestyle goals has never been stronger.
Today, the notion of ‘career change’ no longer means starting from scratch; instead, it’s about exploring roles that provide freedom, personal growth, and a better work-life balance.
For employers, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity: how can they retain experienced professionals while supporting their evolving lifestyle goals? The answer lies in embracing the rise of over-50 career changers—individuals who bring not only decades of experience but a renewed sense of motivation.
In this article, we’ll explore what this trend means for businesses and individuals alike.
Why More Employees Over 50 Are Looking for Career Changes
A significant number of professionals over 50 are reconsidering their careers for a simple reason: they want more freedom. After decades of focusing on building a career, they’re now looking for roles that allow them to enjoy life outside of work. For many, this means seeking jobs that offer more flexibility, enabling them to travel, whether for personal or professional reasons.
Several factors are driving this change. For one, many employees are realising the importance of a healthy work-life balance as they get older. They might have children who’ve moved out, or they’ve reached a stage in life where they want to focus on personal fulfilment. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic played a crucial role in accelerating this shift, as remote work became more common and prompted individuals to reflect on their life’s priorities.
Additionally, today’s employees over 50 are more tech-savvy than ever before, thanks to ongoing digital transformation. They’re no longer restricted to traditional roles but are embracing the idea of using technology to stay connected to their work while on the move. Many are exploring freelance, remote, or consultancy-based work that allows them to maintain a professional presence while still enjoying the freedom to travel.
The Benefits to Employers of Retaining Employees Over 50
You might think that supporting employees who want to travel while still working could be disruptive, but in fact, it offers substantial benefits.
Employees over 50 often bring a wealth of expertise and transferable skills—such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving—that are crucial to any organisation. By supporting flexible career transitions, employers can retain valuable talent and maintain business continuity.
In addition to their technical expertise, older employees are often highly motivated to contribute meaningfully to their roles. Having spent years honing their craft, they are likely to have a deep passion for their field. Offering them travel-friendly career options allows you to tap into their wealth of experience and loyalty.
Employers also benefit from having a more diverse and flexible workforce. Offering roles that support travel goals helps retain older employees, lowering turnover and recruitment costs.
5 Ways Employers Can Support Career Changes for Travel-Ready Roles
While it’s clear that supporting career changes can be advantageous, the next question is: how can employers facilitate this shift? Here are some practical steps that businesses can take to support employees over 50 who want travel-friendly roles:
1. Offer flexible work arrangements
Remote working options, flexible hours, and job-sharing agreements can make a significant difference in attracting and retaining talent. Providing flexibility allows employees to travel without sacrificing their career progression.
2. Provide career transition pathways
Many employees over 50 may feel their current roles no longer align with their lifestyle goals. Employers can support this transition by offering opportunities for career development, such as moving into consultancy or project-based work, which can offer greater freedom.
3. Encourage lifelong learning
Offering training programmes that allow employees to develop new skills can help them transition into roles that better fit their travel aspirations. For example, learning about digital tools or project management can enable employees to work from anywhere.
4. Promote internal mobility
Instead of losing an experienced worker when they seek a change, consider offering new roles within the company that align with their travel-friendly desires. For example, a senior employee in an office-based position may transition into a remote consultancy or advisory role.
5. Mentorship and knowledge sharing
Employees over 50 can play a vital role in mentoring younger staff members. By facilitating a mentorship programme, companies not only retain their experienced employees but also create intergenerational learning, which benefits the entire organisation.
Retaining Over-50s: More Than Just Filling Roles
Employers might view career changes as a way of losing talent, but in reality, it’s an opportunity to retain valuable employees. Many employees over 50 are looking for roles that allow them to pursue personal goals, such as travel, without losing their connection to the workplace. By offering flexibility, employers can ensure that they retain seasoned professionals who are more than just ‘workers’—they’re mentors, advisors, and valuable assets to the company.
By facilitating career changes for older employees, companies can help them achieve personal fulfilment while benefiting from their expertise. Furthermore, an environment that supports career changes can boost employee morale and loyalty, making it more likely that they’ll stay with the company for years to come.
Career Changes After 50: Conclusion
The trend of employees over 50 seeking career changes that allow for more travel is not just a passing phase; it’s a growing shift that employers must adapt to. Providing support for employees who want more flexibility is an investment in retaining top talent, creating a more diverse and engaged workforce, and ensuring that your company remains competitive in the long run.
Here at Refreshing a Career, we have a wealth of useful tips and resources for employers to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of career changers. Be sure to also check out our employer services, including advertising your roles on our unique career change jobs board.
Contact us today for more information.
