Changing careers later in life, when you have already invested lots of time and developed a strong set of accomplishments in one area, can be challenging. One key to success is developing and using relationships to get job interviews outside of your current industry. I’ve always had success contacting people in job categories that interest me and asking if they will meet me informally, so I can simply ask them about what their job is really like and what they see as the future of their industry. People will often respond, even to a cold call or email asking for this type of meeting, because they’re flattered by the fact that you see them as an expert.
Another important element is to be realistic about whether or not you have to take a lateral move and possibly even a pay cut for the greater good of your long term goal in a new career track. Good advice here: