How to Make a Career Change Mid-Life (with Expert Insights from a Career Coach)

Making a career change mid-life is a big decision. As an expat in the Netherlands, you might wonder if your skills are transferable, if your age will be a factor, or how to navigate the Dutch job market. The good news? Career transitions in mid-life are completely possible.

We consulted Aneta Kantarowska, founder of Kanta Clarity Coaching, to provide expert insights on how expats can confidently transition into a new career. Below are some common questions mid-life professionals ask when making a change and Aneta’s expert advice to guide you.

Is it even possible to make a mid-life career change?

You might worry that mid-life career shifts are too risky, but age does not have to be a barrier. Aneta says that clients “often think it is too late for them to make a mid-life career shift, nobody will hire them, they need to start from scratch.”

However, experience and transferable skills can be powerful tools in a career transition. While the process requires effort, it is absolutely achievable with the right mindset and persistence.

Rather than viewing it as starting over, think of age as your superpower. You have years of experience and the kind of real-world problem-solving skills that can’t be taught in a classroom.

How do I figure out what I want to do next?

When figuring out your next career move, self-reflection is an essential step. Structured exercises can help you discover your strengths and values and determine the direction you want your career to take.

With her clients, Aneta starts this at the very beginning. Before the first session, she gives her clients a self-reflection exercise to prepare for her dedicated self-discovery assessment form. This form includes questions about role models, past experiences, and key skills, serving as the foundation for their coaching sessions.

Taking some time to reflect on your own experiences, skills, and what truly motivates you may bring surprising clarity.

How can I position myself for success in the Dutch job market?

Expats face unique challenges when switching careers in the Netherlands. Some common concerns Aneta mentioned include:

• Language barriers – Expats often believe they need fluent Dutch, but that’s not always the case.
• Cultural differences – The Dutch job market is known for its direct communication and hands-on approach, which may be different from other countries.
• Age bias concerns – Expats sometimes worry they will have to start from scratch.

When looking to enter a new job market, it can help to focus on strategic networking and your transferable skills. To position yourself better in the Dutch job market, Aneta suggested four key things:

• Reassess your strengths and skills you can transfer to your new role
• Start networking
• Update your CV and LinkedIn profile for the Dutch job market and apply for jobs strategically
• Prepare for job interviews so you are confident and you know how to answer interview questions

One of the most effective ways to find opportunities in a new industry is networking. Here’s what Aneta recommends to get started:

“Attend networking events. Whether it’s industry-specific meetups, LinkedIn local events, or ones on Eventbrite & MeetUp, networking can introduce you to hidden job opportunities. (I even host career networking events in Leiden!)”

She also recommends increasing your LinkedIn visibility by engaging in industry discussions and connecting with recruiters:

“Many roles don’t even make it to public job boards before being filled. Be proactive—reach out to recruiters, send messages, and make calls. Stay on their radar.”

And don’t be afraid to expand beyond LinkedIn. Aneta shares that expat forums, Facebook groups, and industry-specific communities can be goldmines for hidden job openings.

What can I do to stay motivated during my mid-life career transition?

Making a career change mid-life can be challenging, and staying motivated throughout the process might feel tough. It’s normal to face setbacks, but having the right mindset and support system can make all the difference.

A key part of staying motivated is adopting a growth-oriented mindset. Aneta emphasizes that while career transitions require effort, persistence will pay off:

“They are capable of doing it but it requires work (sometimes hard work). It will eventually pay off and they should not give up.”

Leaning on a strong support system can also help. Talking with friends, family, or peers who have gone through similar transitions can provide reassurance and keep you accountable.

For those who need more structure and guidance, working with a career coach can be a game-changer. Aneta helps her clients stay on track with clear goals, structured progress, and accountability:

“I am very structured, and I like seeing them moving towards their goal. I am also their accountability partner to make sure that things are being done and that we reach our goal. I tell them that I give them tough love when necessary. “

Can career coaching really help me with a career change?

Yes! Many professionals struggle to navigate career transitions alone, and a coach provides clarity, structure, and accountability. For example, Aneta’s a fully customizable coaching program, which includes:

→ Self-discovery exercises to identify the best career fit.

→ A step-by-step action plan tailored to your goals.

→ CV & LinkedIn optimization for the Dutch market.

→ Mock interviews and networking strategies to help you stand out.

When choosing a coach, consider one whose methods are designed not just to help you land a new job, but to help you discover which new career path is right for you. Aneta says:

“I help them to look into themselves and learn who they are, which skills they already have, what they are good at, and what they enjoy doing. They often have these ‘aha’ moments when they learn something new about themselves.”

Working with a career coach can be a great choice and help you stay focused, build confidence, and navigate your transition more effectively.

Read Also: Discover Your Dream Career in Mid-Life

Make a career change with confidence

If you’re serious about making a career change mid-life, getting expert guidance can make the transition smoother and more successful.

Kanta Clarity Coaching offers customized career transition programs designed specifically for expats. Learn more about how Aneta can support your journey at Kanta Clarity Coaching.