APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives her expert advice to a reader who is feeling unmotivated and like they don’t belong in their new role.
Q) I’ve just turned 50 and feel lost professionally.
I spent my late-20s and most of my 30s doing low-level roles that fitted around looking after my children, but I really felt like I was progressing in my career in my 40s – until I was made redundant last year.
I eventually found another role at a new company, but it meant I had to take a step down, in both seniority and pay, and now I feel unmotivated and like I don’t belong.
I’ve got at least another 15 years of work ahead of me – how do I find my mojo again and feel like I have a purpose?
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Sara
A) Turning 50 is certainly not the end of your career – in fact, it can be one of the most exciting phases of your professional life.
It’s your chance to reset, refocus and take control.
You’ve spent years honing your skills, managing challenges and navigating life in ways younger colleagues haven’t, so now you need to use that to your advantage.
Take time to think about what you’re really passionate about, and how you can turn this passion into a career.
Invest in yourself, whether that’s upskilling or asking to be involved in work projects or committees that interest you.
It’s important to network both within your wider industry, as well as within your company.
Look for ways to add value and purpose in your current role, while also keeping an eye on opportunities ahead.
The really positive thing is that you are in a job right now, so you have a steady income as you make any changes.
Setbacks are inevitable – it’s how we deal with them that shows character.
With confidence, determination and a considered strategy, you can reignite your drive and make this next chapter your strongest and most fulfilling yet.
- Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.
