Not all careers last forever. Some of us start working in a career that may have an expiration date. The transition from short-term careers into a new role, often within an entirely different industry, can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

Facing retirement from your career at an early age suggests that you likely started when you were a school-leaver, or even while you were still at school. You may have missed out on a range of opportunities that were available to your peers, such as A-Levels or university. A career change could be the driving force that inspires you to achieve those qualifications you missed out on.

Transferable Skills From Short-Term Careers

It may be the case that you lack the relevant qualifications required for a particular career. Nevertheless, those who retire early from their first career will undoubtedly have a great deal of experience. You will have accumulated a robust and diverse skillset that will be transferable to a range of other occupations. It’s important to highlight the skills you developed in your first career, so be sure to read our guide on How to Emphasise Transferable Skills.

If you need help getting your CV ready for job applications, use our CV template to guide you in the right direction.

Choosing the Right Career

A change in career direction will take determination, drive and confidence. Thankfully, there are many resources available to help you. One of the first steps to take after short-term careers is to re-evaluate your interests and goals, which may have drastically changed over the years. Do you see yourself continuing in the industry? Or are you considering a change of career and sector too?

The Same Industry

If you are keen to stay in the same industry as your first career, there are likely to be various roles available to you. You will have gained plenty of experience and will have a good understanding of how the industry works. This inside knowledge is invaluable to potential employers.

Take a look at our suggestions following on from a career in the military, acting, sports or modelling.

Also, check in with your network of contacts to get an idea of the opportunities that are out there for you.

Different Industry

On the other hand, don’t be afraid to make an even bigger change. Maybe you are interested in a particular career path that is dissimilar to the industry you initially worked in. If that’s the case, you should have the confidence to go for it. Perhaps you have retired from a sporting career at the age of 25, and now have ambitions to become an engineer. Or you’ve spent 15 years of your life working as a model, but have always been eager to enter politics. Whatever is of interest to you, there are options available. They will ensure you gain the education, qualifications, or training you need to succeed.

Qualifications and Retraining After Short-Term Careers

If you need assistance getting on the right path after short-term careers, visit our pages on How to Retrain. You’ll find more information on the types of retraining courses and qualifications available. Some options allow students to earn an income while studying, including part-time college or university and the Open University. These options are perfect for those who need more flexibility around their studies.

Maybe you have children or are caring for a loved one? Consult our pages on Working around Existing Commitments to get the guidance you need.

Alternatively, don’t hesitate to seek the advice of a careers counsellor. They will be able to provide you with the tips you need to enter your dream career.

The Refreshing a Career newsletter will keep you up-to-date with the latest career change job postings, so be sure to sign up using the form below. Finally, keep an eye on our live career change jobs board for new opportunities after short-term careers.