Gone are the days when people stuck with one career for life.
With nearly 40% of today’s core job skills expected to be disrupted by technology by 2027, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, staying relevant in the workforce requires continuous learning. For some, that means upskilling within their current profession. For others, it could mean pivoting to a new career altogether—one better aligned with the evolving job market.
But technology isn’t the only driving force behind career shifts. The COVID-19 pandemic led many workers to reassess their priorities—a trend that’s been dubbed the “Great Reshuffle.” Today’s employees aren’t just looking for better salaries; they’re moving from “crummy jobs” to “better jobs” and seeking companies that genuinely care about their well-being.
No matter your age or what stage of career you’re in, thinking about a new career path can be both exciting and overwhelming. Maybe you’re looking for opportunities that don’t require prior experience, or you want to find the best options that match your skills and interests. The key is figuring out what aligns with your strengths, values, and long-term goals.
Career change jobs with no experience required
It’s entirely possible to make a successful career shift—even without direct experience in the new field. “Employers are often willing to invest in candidates who are passionate and eager to learn, even if they don’t have all the experience yet,” says career coach Brandi Oldham. “The key is to focus on your transferable skills and approach the transition with a growth mindset.
“Many people underestimate the value of the skills they've developed in other roles—things like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and time management are highly transferable and can make you a strong candidate in a new industry.”
The best way to break into a new career is by leveraging your existing strengths while actively building new skills. That could mean taking online courses, volunteering, or working on side projects to gain hands-on experience. “Networking and informational interviews are also crucial during this phase—they can help you learn more about the field and identify opportunities to gain practical experience,” Oldham says.
Here are some of the best career change jobs (with no experience required) that provide on-the-job training, have low entry barriers, or value transferable skills. (With annual average salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website.)
1. Social media manager
Average salary: $36,200 to $56,770 per year
If you love spending time on Instagram, X, TikTok, or LinkedIn, you might already have the skills needed to become a social media manager. Companies and small businesses are always looking for people who can create engaging content, grow audiences, and manage online communities. Free resources and courses can help you learn the technical side of the job.
2. Freelance writer
Average salary: The BLS does not have specific data for freelance writers, but the average salary for writers and authors is $73,690 per year. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a freelance writer is $57,782 per year.
If you have strong writing skills and a knack for research, freelance writing could be a great career change option. Many companies need content for blogs, websites, and marketing materials, and you don’t need a formal writing degree to get started. Building a portfolio through guest blogging or self-published articles can help you land your first gigs.
3. Real estate agent
Selling real estate is one of the best jobs for a career change because it doesn’t require a specific degree—just a real estate license (which you can earn in a few months). It’s ideal for people who enjoy networking, sales, and working with clients to help them find their dream homes.
Average salary: $69,610 per year
4. Customer service representative
Customer service roles are great entry points into a variety of industries, from tech to retail to finance. They’re ideal for people with strong communication skills and a knack for problem-solving. Many companies provide paid training, making this an accessible career change job with no experience needed.
Average salary: $43,520 per year
5. Data entry specialist
If you’re detail-oriented and comfortable working with spreadsheets or databases, data entry can be a good way to break into the administrative or tech world. Many companies offer remote roles, and you can start with minimal experience as long as you have basic computer skills.
Average salary: $41,490 per year
Best career change jobs at 30
Thinking about switching careers in your 30s? Many professionals reach this stage and realize they want more from their careers—whether it's better pay, greater job satisfaction, or a healthier work-life balance.
The good news? Your 30s are a great time for a career change. You likely have valuable experience, a clearer sense of what you want, and plenty of working years ahead to build a fulfilling career.
If you’re considering a career shift, here are some of the best options that offer stability, growth, and strong earning potential.
6. Project manager
Project management is a great career change option because it values leadership, organization, and problem-solving—skills you may already have from your previous roles. Many industries need project managers, from tech to construction to healthcare. Plus, certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) can help you transition smoothly.
Average salary: $104,920 per year
7. Marketing manager
If you enjoy creativity, strategy, and analyzing consumer behavior, marketing could be a great fit. Many marketers start in other fields and transfer their skills in communication, data analysis, and customer engagement. Digital marketing, in particular, is a high-growth field with plenty of online courses to help you gain the necessary knowledge.
Average salary: $166,410 per year
8. Software developer
Tech jobs are in demand, and software development offers excellent earning potential and flexibility. If you enjoy problem-solving and logical thinking, coding bootcamps and online courses can help you gain the necessary skills—even without a computer science degree.
Average salary: $138,110 per year
9. Financial planner
A career in financial planning can be ideal if you're good with numbers and enjoy helping others make smart financial decisions. You can start by earning certifications like Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and building expertise in investments, retirement planning, and budgeting.
Average salary: $150,670 per year
Best career change jobs at 40 and 50
Making a career change in your 40s or 50s can feel like a bold move, but it’s more common than you might think. Your years of experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge are valuable assets that can set you apart in a new field.
“Seize whatever career opportunities excite you,” Oldham says. “There are no rules or barriers, despite what you might have heard. In any field, there are opportunities that value your depth of experience and insight, whether it's in business, healthcare, tech, or the creative industries. It's all about how you position yourself.”
So, what is the best career to switch to at 40? The answer depends on your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Ideally, you’ll want a role that offers both stability and growth. Here are some of the best jobs for midlife career change:
10. Business consultant
If you have years of experience in a particular industry, transitioning into consulting can be a great way to use your expertise while enjoying flexibility and autonomy. Consultants help businesses improve operations, increase profitability, or navigate industry changes.
Average salary: $115,530 per year
11. Financial analyst
Financial analysts are responsible for examining financial data, trends, and forecasts to provide businesses with the insights needed for decision-making. If you have a background in finance or have spent years managing budgets and financial strategies, becoming a financial analyst could be a great fit. It allows you to leverage your analytical skills while diving deeper into financial modeling, forecasting, and reporting.
Average salary: $112,950 per year
12. Health and medical services manager
Healthcare is a growing field, and experienced professionals with strong leadership and organizational skills can find rewarding opportunities in management. These roles involve overseeing healthcare facilities, managing staff, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Average salary: $134,440 per year
13. Human resources manager
If you've spent years managing teams, handling conflict resolution, or overseeing workplace operations, a career in HR could be a great fit. HR managers are responsible for recruitment, employee relations, and workplace culture. They also play a key role in shaping company policies, fostering employee development, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
Average salary: $154,740 per year
Best career change jobs over 50
Entering a new career or shifting industries in your 50s and beyond can be an empowering journey. Many people in this age group bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a refined set of skills that can be highly valued in a variety of fields. Focus on roles where your years of experience, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills will be seen as assets.
Here are some great career change options for those over 50:
14. Management analyst
Management analysts provide organizations with advice on how to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize operations. If you’ve spent years in management or a similar field, your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills are highly transferable. A career as a management analyst can offer flexibility and the chance to work with different organizations and help them grow.
Average salary: $115,530 per year
15. Fundraiser
Fundraisers help organizations raise money for causes or projects. This career is ideal for those with experience in sales, marketing, or public relations. A background in networking, relationship-building, and communication skills is a great foundation for transitioning into fundraising. Nonprofit organizations often value the experience, strategic thinking, and leadership you can bring to the table.
Average salary: $70,760 per year
16. Training and development specialist
Training and development specialists focus on creating programs that help employees develop their skills, improve performance, and succeed in their roles. If you’ve worked in leadership, management, or mentoring roles, your experience will translate well into this career. Training and development specialists work with organizations to guide professional growth, leadership development, and employee training.
Average salary: $71,980 per year
17. Medical support worker
Medical support roles, such as medical billing or medical office administration, are ideal for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field without requiring extensive medical training. These roles frequently provide on-the-job training or short certification programs, making them accessible for people transitioning careers later in life.
Average salary: From $53,690 to $70,260 per year
High-paying career change jobs
If you're looking to switch careers and boost your earning potential, some fields offer high-paying opportunities that come with strong job demand and impressive growth prospects. The key is to identify industries where skills from your previous roles are easily transferable, while also positioning yourself for success in roles that have substantial financial rewards.
However, it’s important to note that these jobs typically require specialized knowledge, years of study, and relevant certifications or degrees. While the path to these roles can be demanding, the financial rewards and job satisfaction make it worth considering for those who are ready for the challenge.
If you're considering a career change and are willing to invest time and effort into education and training, here are some career change jobs that pay well:
18. Data scientist
Data scientists analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make data-driven decisions. This role requires expertise in data analysis, statistical modeling, and programming. As more businesses rely on data to inform their strategies, the demand for skilled data scientists continues to rise. This profession requires a master’s degree in data science, computer science, or a related field, although some roles may accept candidates with a strong analytical background and coding skills.
Average salary: $119,040 per year
19. IT manager
IT managers oversee an organization’s technology infrastructure, keeping systems running smoothly and securely. They manage teams of IT professionals, coordinate technology initiatives, and ensure the overall success of the IT department. With technology being integral to all industries, this role offers great earning potential for those with a managerial background or technical expertise. IT managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, with many roles preferring candidates with a master’s degree or relevant certifications.
Average salary: $180,720 per year
20. Computer network architect
Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks, wide area networks, and intranets. As businesses expand their digital capabilities, the demand for professionals who can create secure and efficient networks has grown. This role typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field, with some positions seeking candidates with certifications in networking or architecture.
Average salary: $133,930 per year
21. Pilot
Pilots are responsible for operating aircraft, whether for passenger travel, cargo transport, or specialized services such as aerial firefighting or crop dusting. This career path offers high earning potential and a sense of adventure, but it requires significant training and certification. To pursue this career, you need a commercial pilot’s license and extensive flight training, often gained through flight schools or college programs in aviation.
Average salary: From $138,010 to $209,680 per year
22. Financial manager
Financial managers oversee an organization’s financial health, including financial reporting, budgeting, and investment strategies. This role is crucial for ensuring the company’s financial stability and growth. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field is typically required for financial managers, with many holding an MBA or other advanced certifications.
Average salary: $174,820 per year
How to choose the right career change job for you
With the right strategies, you can narrow down your options and find a path that aligns with your skills, interests, and life goals.
Identify your personal values
The key is to balance your personal values with the opportunities available, so you end up in a career that not only pays the bills but also provides long-term satisfaction.
“Start by identifying your personal value system,” Oldham says. “Understanding what truly matters to you—whether it’s flexibility, creativity, or leadership—can really help guide you toward a career that feels aligned with who you are.”
Ask yourself: What do you want from your next career?
“For example, if family is really important to you, you might want to look for a job that supports a flexible schedule or offers perks that benefit your loved ones—maybe pet insurance for your furry friend or extra family leave,” she says. “When you know what you value, it’s easier to figure out what kind of work will not only make you feel fulfilled but also fit into your lifestyle in a way that supports your overall well-being.”
Research different careers
Once you’ve defined your values, it's time to explore potential careers. “One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when considering a career change is making assumptions about the new path without doing the proper research,” Oldham says.
Take the time to schedule informational interviews with people in the industry. “These 30-minute interviews give you a chance to learn about a company, a career path, or an industry directly from someone who's already in it,” she says. You can better understand the day-to-day realities of a job, the skills required, and what it takes to succeed.
To structure your informational interview, Oldham recommends breaking it down into three key areas:
1. Focus on the past:
Understand how the person got to where they are today. Example questions:
- What did you do prior to landing the role you have now?
- How did you know you wanted to work in the role you are in?
- What was your career path?
2. Focus on the present:
Get a sense of what a day looks like for them. Example questions:
- What does your day-to-day look like?
- How has your job changed in the last year?
- What’s something you do regularly in your position that most people don't know is part of the job?
3. Focus on the future:
Learn about where the field is headed and the skills you need to stay competitive. Example questions:
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- How do you think the industry will change in the next three to five years?
For extra guidance, read this next: Want to Change Careers? Here's How Informational Interviews Can Help
Assess job stability, growth potential, and salary
In addition to finding a role that aligns with your values, consider factors like job stability, salary, and long-term career prospects. Research the job market in the fields you’re interested in to ensure you’re entering a growing industry with high demand. Evaluate job growth projections and determine whether the role offers room for advancement. This way, you can ensure that your new career will continue to offer opportunities for professional development and financial growth.
Consider transferable skills
Think about the skills you've developed in your previous roles and how they can apply to your new career. Focusing on transferable skills will help you position yourself as a strong candidate, even without direct experience in the new field.
Emphasize these transferable skills in your job applications and networking conversations to make a smooth transition into your next role.
Read this next: What Are Transferable Skills? 10 Examples for Your Resume
Plan for growth and continuous learning
Lastly, think about the skills and certifications you’ll need to succeed in your new career. Some roles may require additional education or on-the-job training. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or volunteering to gain experience. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to long-term success, especially when switching industries.
Find your fit
Changing careers can be a rewarding journey that allows you to align your work with your personal values, interests, and long-term goals. By carefully considering factors like job stability, growth potential, salary, and how your skills transfer to new roles, you can make a well-informed decision. With the right research and a thoughtful approach, you can transition into a fulfilling new career that not only supports your lifestyle but also provides opportunities for growth and personal satisfaction.