Research Strategies for Post-60 Career Planning Unveiled

Amy Lindgren, a career consultant based in St. Paul, emphasizes the importance of thorough research when planning a career after the age of 60. In her latest column, part of a twelve-month series focusing on post-60 career strategies, she highlights effective methods to help individuals navigate this significant transition.

Understanding Career Research Categories

Lindgren categorizes career research into five distinct areas, which can help streamline the process for those considering their options. These categories include sector, industry, profession, company, and job. Understanding these categories can assist individuals in focusing their research efforts effectively.

First, the sector refers to broad areas of the economy, such as health care or manufacturing. For example, individuals interested in health care may want to explore its vitality in their local area, asking questions like, “Is health care thriving in Minnesota?”

Next is the industry, which represents specific segments within a sector. Within health care, professions like dentistry and pharmaceuticals fall under this umbrella. Researching which industry is experiencing growth can significantly influence career choices.

The third category involves the profession or role, which refers to specific job types within an industry. For instance, within the dentistry sector, roles can include dental assistants and dental equipment sales. Understanding the educational requirements and job availability in these roles can guide career decisions.

Once a role is selected, the next step is exploring specific companies that employ individuals in that position. This includes researching potential employers for growth opportunities and workplace culture.

Finally, the job category requires a deep dive into the specifics of available positions, including duties and compensation. This structured approach allows individuals to start from a broad perspective and narrow down to specific job opportunities.

Levels of Career Research Explained

Lindgren also outlines three levels of career research that complement the aforementioned categories. The first level involves broad, general research, often accessible through online resources like ONetOnline.org and CareerOneStop.org. This stage provides foundational insights into various sectors and industries.

The second level, termed customized person-to-person inquiry, focuses on informational interviewing. This method allows individuals to engage directly with professionals in their field of interest, asking targeted questions about job roles and industry dynamics. For example, one might inquire about a typical workday or the feasibility of part-time opportunities.

The final level, experiential discovery, encourages individuals to gain hands-on experience through volunteering or internships. This practical exposure can clarify whether a specific career path aligns with individual aspirations and circumstances.

Informational interviewing, in particular, is a powerful tool for seniors. With extensive networks developed over the years, older professionals often have access to valuable contacts who can provide insights and guidance. This method not only enhances research but also builds essential networking connections.

Ultimately, the research process is vital for anyone considering a career change later in life. By gathering information, individuals can make informed decisions and cultivate confidence in their new career journeys. Lindgren asserts that effective research equips seniors with the necessary tools to navigate potential challenges, ensuring a resilient approach to their professional paths.

For those interested in further exploring career options post-60, Lindgren’s insights offer a roadmap to success. Her consulting firm in St. Paul can be reached at [email protected] for personalized support and guidance.