Starting a new career in your thirties can feel daunting, but it’s often the perfect time. By now, you’ve built transferable skills, gained life experience, and worked out what motivates you. It’s good to know that plenty of office-based careers welcome career changers - and you don’t always need years of formal training to get going. You’ll also be far from alone. Changing careers in your thirties is very common!
Here are five great options if you’re ready to make a change.
1. Human Resources (HR)
HR is all about talent as a resource and people connect to the business. You could be supporting recruitment, handling employee queries, or helping to shape company culture. If you’re organised, a good listener, and naturally empathetic, HR can be a great fit. While some roles require CIPD qualifications, you can often get started in HR admin and work your way up, completing qualifications on the job.
2. Accounts
If you’ve got a head for numbers and enjoy problem-solving, accounts is worth considering. From processing invoices to supporting payroll, these roles suit people who like structure and accuracy. You don’t need to be a maths genius - strong Excel skills and attention to detail are often enough to get your foot in the door. Many people start in accounts assistant roles while studying AAT or other accounting qualifications part-time.
3. Executive Assistant
Executive assistants (EAs) are the right-hand support for senior leaders, handling everything from diary management to preparing reports. If you’re highly organised, calm under pressure, and a natural multitasker, this career could be a fantastic move. Previous admin experience is useful, but plenty of people transfer into EA roles from different backgrounds, especially if they’ve already developed strong communication and organisational skills.
4. Marketing
Marketing is more creative and varied than many people expect. You might be writing content, supporting campaigns, or analysing data to see what works. If you’re curious, adaptable, and enjoy coming up with ideas, it can be a really rewarding path. Entry-level roles like marketing assistant or social media coordinator are often open to career changers, especially if you can demonstrate creativity or relevant experience, such as managing social media in a previous role.
5. Customer Service
Customer service is often undervalued, but it’s at the heart of many businesses. If you’re a people person with patience and strong communication skills, this career can open lots of doors. From call centres to corporate reception roles, customer service experience can also be a springboard into HR, sales, or office management later on.
Ready to Get Started?
Changing direction in your thirties doesn’t mean starting from scratch. In fact, your experience so far could be exactly what makes you stand out. It’s also likely to ensure you progress faster through promotions. Whether you’re drawn to HR, accounts, marketing, or another path, there are plenty of ways to begin.
If you’re ready to take the next step, explore office support jobs in London with Love Success today. Register as a candidate.