Could people advise me on how to make a mid life career change? (UK)?

Question

I'm 44 and currently working as a laboratory technician. I have an MSc in Chemistry but rarely am I able to do any real chemistry and a collection of mild disabilities do make lab work quite trying. I really feel that I'd like to work in the field of political research for a pressure group whose objectives I support or the political party I support.

I really don't know how to make this change. I don't even know which pressure groups might interest me. I do know which political party interests me.

I am concerned about my health record, though I understand that the selectors cannot see it until after they have made their decision. In 2007 I had three significant periods of sick leave, an operation followed by eight weeks off, a bout of depression and cat scratch disease, which has symptoms very much like ME but only lasts 4-8 weeks. This year I have been somewhat better but I had 2 weeks off for severe migraine and that included a night in hospital, two weeks off when I fell and injured a knee and two weeks for a flu-like cold that turned into mild pneumonia. How do I deal with this background when applying for jobs?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Ok so you know which political party interests you. So that's a start. You already evaluated your interest.

You can use the job search engines to find jobs by using keywords that match your interests and the location where you want to work. If you narrow your search it will help you focus your job search and will give you more relevant job listings to review and less non-relevant job listings to go through.

And when you'vee found some companies and industries you should research them and see if they are right for you then enlist in a job opportunity. (But make sure it is in the area you want to work in. Next thing you know they want you in Africa or something!) Try to make a resume for the career you would like to pursue. You sound very smart so I am sure you can do this!

But when you do get accepted don't accept right away. Make sure what they are offering is good for you. Explore the job offerings that is the best to your expectations.

As for your health record you shouldn't stress over it. Like you said they look at it after your hired. Plus some of what you said was accidental like the knee thing.

And be positive!

EDIT: Damn you people! I said serious answers! Gosh! I mean I'm posting this question in every question I answer.

Source(s):

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( >< ) ME Your Egyptian friend from America!!=3

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

A good answer. Thanks to all those who gave serious answers. I cannot afford to take time off work to further my education but I'd welcome a job with training. I would like to find a career in promoting renewable energy.

Answer 2

Okay im showing a little christian love here, Just go for it! If thats the job you want then ask for it!! All those illnesses, i will pray none of it happens again. God bless those of you who are far across the pond! =D (USA)

Answer 3

Well there are a number of things you can do to assist a cause or aid a group of your choice. But the first thing you can do is go on line and research some of the issues that you feel passionate about, and find out what groups support your views. From there, contact the group and ask to speak with an organiser or representative for that group in order to perform first hand research. Ask what are their requirements, what's their mission statement, and how can you join (if you where interested). From there, volunteer for them PART TIME!, I can't stress this enough, meaning do not quit your current job. No matter how intense you feel this group is, you still have to pay your bills. And Just let nature take its course from there. As time goes on, you'll get a feel for the people within that group, the climate in which they create and the methods in which they go about getting their point across (is it legal or illegal, does anyone get hurt or killed in the process, is this a group that I would want to be affiliated with if I decided to run for public office in the future?). All these things should be taken into consideration before taking up arms in the battle of your chosen cause.

Answer 4

I believe that when the universe decides that something is yours, it will be regardless of what obstacles you may think are standing in your way. So do your best and reach for the stars. Good luck.

Answer 5

If you want to work for a pressure group start calling around and see who does what. The whole world is on the internet. Decide what kind of pressure you'd like to apply to the home office and then look for other like minded blokes.

Don't worry about health mate. What can you dou?

Answer 6

You will have to do a lot of research on line to find what you will be interested in as a long term career. When you find something you really like then you have to research how you can be an asset to their organization. Send them a resume, even if they don't have a job opening at that moment,
I hope that you can find something that does not waste your talent and education! If they don't access your health records until after you are hired, I don't see how this can be a problem. Just try to stay as fit as you can, the rest you can not help.
I hope you don't mind (and if you do, put it in your edit) I will put you in my nightly prayers until Epiphany. God bless!

Answer 7

go to college again

Answer 8

A prostitute.