Dear Witty Talks to Tech Newbie
Dear Witty,
I am in my 40s and embarking on a new career in tech: UX/UI design. It's something I have been wanting to do for years. I'm enrolled in an online course currently and loving it — the challenge, the work, the readings, studying the history of design as well as thinking about how I want to contribute to the future of tech. I truly want to have a positive impact on the world. However, most of my fellow students are in the 22-27 age range, and many of the project briefs are geared towards users between the ages of 21-30.
It's hard to not worry about how realistic it is for me to get a great job, at my age, after completing the course. Am I a fool for doing this? In my most positive moments, I am excited about the potential of bringing more diversity (age, gender, ability, race, class, etc.) and life experience to the field. In my less than positive moments, I fear that I am already obsolete. Do you have any advice for me on how best to navigate this career shift at my age?
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Dear Tech Newbie,
First of all, congratulations on the career change! What an exciting field! And how awesome is it that you love your course? That tells us that you made a solid choice.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most employees in the “computer and mathematical occupations” are currently between 25-44 years old (BLS.gov). Like any statistic, take that with a grain of salt. It just means that the likelihood of someone in that age bracket is higher than those under 25 or over 45 years old. The reality is that folks change jobs 12 times on average over a lifetime (BLS.gov). It’s common to change jobs/careers and it’s okay to feel scared or anxious about it. It’s not necessarily going to be easy... but here are some tips to help navigate this transition.
Know Your Worth
Think about what sets you apart. What contributions do you think you can offer in your new field or organization? What unique perspectives can you provide? You mentioned diversity — it is not just a buzzword. Diversity (in age, gender, ability, race, class, etc.) in a workforce allows for a variety of characteristics, backgrounds and thus perspectives in each role, thus impacting an organization and the field in which it resides. You can choose to embrace your age and leverage your experience — whether it is your accumulated knowledge, unique skills, or ability to navigate change or ambiguity. Taking such a career leap also shows resilience, perseverance, and a desire for professional development and personal growth. Also note that if you are going to school DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, that says a lot about you.
What skills have you cultivated? Which industries or markets or roles are you familiar with? Try relating these to your new field. If you’re finding it difficult, it might be beneficial for you to speak to a coach, a resume writer, a recruiter or someone who is familiar with resumes for a particular organization, industry, or field. Whether your resume or cover letter needs a quick lookover (or a complete overhaul) or you just want some reassurance or added confidence from someone who can help with your “elevator pitch” or interviewing skills, a job coach can be a great resource. It is nice to have someone in your corner to cheer you on or kick your butt (depending on which you need at the moment).
It is important to remember that regardless of your resume or interview skills, you just might not be a fit for some organizations. And that is OK — who wants to work in an organization that doesn’t align with their values? Or worse yet, an organization that does not see your value? Do not allow that disappointment to ruin your momentum. Of course it can be discouraging, but take some time and prepare for the next round. You just need one opportunity to get your new career off the ground! Making such a life transition might require more help as well — take a look around to see where you can find support in other areas of your life.
Community Support
To navigate a career shift at your age (or any age), patience, perseverance, support and networking are very important. Do you feel obsolete or do you feel alienated in your new field? Now is a particularly difficult time to meet new people. But we can be safe and creative with making new connections.
Mentorship is a wonderful way to meet people, gain some knowledge and confidence in your field. Mentorship also offers the mentee an opportunity to share knowledge with their mentor. Does your program offer mentorship opportunities? If not, see if any are available through various alum networks — it might be helpful for you to follow/connect with previous school alumni organizations on IG, Twitter or LinkedIn. Did you know that PDXWIT has several mentorship opportunities? Check them out!
Are there resources available through your course/school? Are there career counselors or peer support groups, forums or other means to communicate (virtually) with folks? Are there classmates, teachers, or alums you can connect with? Are there any professional development opportunities (through organizations or webinars, workshops or events) where you can meet others?
There are so many opportunities to meet folks — and not just for “getting a job” (though that can happen, too). Networking can happen naturally and be a lovely, mutually beneficial experience.
Please let us know if there is some way we can support you on your new journey!
In solidarity,
WITTY
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