Going Back To Work At 50: Where Should You Start?

A Reality Check: Embrace the Re-Start Mindset

Taking a substantial break from the workforce means you’re essentially starting fresh. A general rule of thumb is that for every year out, you lose about 10% of your relevancy in the traditional job market. So, after a decade, it’s almost like you’re beginning from scratch on paper. But that doesn’t mean you’re actually at zero—you’ve built invaluable life skills and experiences along the way, and we’re going to make sure you leverage those.

Step 1: Self-Discovery (Who Are You at Work?)

Before diving into resumes and job applications, the first step is all about getting to know yourself as a future employee. Consider it a self-discovery phase. Ask yourself these questions:

• What’s your work style? Do you prefer collaborative environments, or are you more productive working independently?
• What kind of value do you bring? How do you enjoy contributing and making a difference?
• What are your learning preferences? Do you thrive with hands-on training or through self-directed projects?
• What companies attract you, and why?

By answering these questions, you’ll get a clearer picture of what you want and need from a job and workplace.

Step 2: Build Your Target List (A "Bucket List" of Employers)

Once you have a better idea of your professional identity, it’s time to create a bucket list of companies where you could see yourself working. Think about companies that align with your values, culture preferences, and job roles you’re interested in exploring. This list will become your guide as you move into the networking phase.

Step 3: Network Through Informational Interviews

Networking is your best tool right now, especially when your resume may not directly reflect your recent experience. Start by scheduling informational interviews, which are casual conversations with people working in roles or companies you’re interested in. This is not about asking for a job. Instead, you’ll be learning about their career paths, roles, and insights about the industry.

During these chats, share who you are, what you’re excited about, and the kinds of problems you love solving. Many people enjoy talking about their work and are often willing to share their experiences and advice. Plus, these connections can introduce you to hiring managers and advocate for you as a viable candidate.

Step 4: Let Connections Do the Talking

Through these genuine conversations, your personality and passion will stand out. People will start to see your potential—not as someone who has been out of work for 17 years, but as someone with fresh energy and motivation. When they see you’re a fit for a role, they might recommend you for positions or introduce you to hiring managers, where your enthusiasm and willingness to learn will shine.

Step 5: Forget the Resume—For Now

Your resume, though important, will not be the primary tool that lands you a job after such a long break. Traditional online job applications that rely heavily on resumes may work against you at this stage. Instead, your networking, self-assessment, and carefully chosen conversations will be what opens doors. You’ll still prepare a resume, but only after you’ve identified what makes you unique and after you’ve built connections that can support your application.

Take Action: Tools to Help Your Job Search

Kickstart your journey with a career assessment tool, like my free Career Decoder Quiz. This will help you align your strengths and personality with potential job roles and get you thinking about where you want to fit in. If you would like additional support, sign up for a Work It DAILY membership (we offer a 7-day free trial!) where our career experts can help interpret your results and strategize your search.

Going back to work after 50, especially with a long gap, is all about finding the right approach, tools, and support. With a thoughtful plan and the right connections, your experience and new enthusiasm will become your biggest assets. Welcome back to the workforce—you’re going to do great!

Good luck! Go get 'em.