Staying Relevant in a Changing Workforce
According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, nearly 40% of today’s core job skills will be disrupted by technology by 2027. To stay competitive, continuous learning is a must. For some, that means upskilling in their current field. For others, it might mean switching to a completely new career—one that fits better with the evolving job market.
But tech isn’t the only reason people change careers. The COVID-19 pandemic made many workers rethink their priorities—a trend called the “Great Reshuffle.” Today, employees aren’t just chasing higher pay; they’re moving from “bad jobs” to “better jobs” and looking for companies that truly value their well-being.
No matter your age or career stage, considering a new path can be both thrilling and daunting. Maybe you’re looking for roles that don’t require prior experience, or you want to find the best fit for 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
Switching careers without direct experience is totally possible. “Employers often invest in passionate, eager-to-learn candidates—even if they lack some experience,” says career coach Brandi Oldham. “Focus on transferable skills and approach the transition with a growth mindset.”
Many people underestimate the skills they’ve gained in past roles—communication, leadership, problem-solving, and time management are all highly transferable and can make you a strong candidate in a new field.
The best way to break into a new career? Leverage your existing strengths while actively building new skills. That could mean taking online courses, volunteering, or working on side projects for hands-on experience. “Networking and informational interviews are also crucial—they help you learn about the field and find ways to gain practical experience,” Oldham adds.
Here are some of the best career-change jobs (no experience needed) that offer on-the-job training, low entry barriers, or value transferable skills. (Salaries are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.)
1. Social Media Manager
Average salary: $36,200 – $56,770/year
If you love Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, or LinkedIn, you might already have the skills for this role. Businesses need people who can create engaging content, grow audiences, and manage online communities. Free resources and courses can help you learn the technical side.
Find social media manager jobs on The Muse
2. Freelance Writer
Average salary:
- BLS average for writers/authors: $73,690/year
- Glassdoor average for freelance writers: $57,782/year
If you’re a strong writer and researcher, freelance writing could be a great fit. Companies need blog posts, website content, and marketing materials—no formal degree required. Build a portfolio through guest posts or self-published articles to land your first gigs.
Find freelance writer jobs on The Muse
3. Real Estate Agent
Average salary: $69,610/year
Selling real estate is a top career-change job because it doesn’t require a degree—just a license (earned in a few months). Ideal for people who enjoy networking, sales, and helping clients find their dream homes.
Find real estate agent jobs on The Muse
4. Customer Service Representative
Average salary: $43,520/year
Great entry point into industries like tech, retail, or finance. Perfect for strong communicators and problem-solvers. Many companies provide paid training, making this an accessible option.
Find customer service jobs on The Muse
5. Data Entry Specialist
Average salary: $41,490/year
If you’re detail-oriented and comfortable with spreadsheets, data entry can be a gateway into admin or tech roles. Many positions are remote, and basic computer skills are often enough to start.
Find data entry jobs on The Muse
Best Career Change Jobs at 30
Thinking about a switch in your 30s? Many professionals reach this stage wanting better pay, job satisfaction, or work-life balance. The good news? Your 30s are a great time to pivot—you have experience, clarity, and plenty of working years ahead.
Here are some stable, high-growth options:
6. Project Manager
Average salary: $104,920/year
Values leadership, organization, and problem-solving—skills you may already have. Needed in tech, construction, healthcare, and more. Certifications like PMP can help with the transition.
Find project manager jobs on The Muse
7. Marketing Manager
Average salary: $166,410/year
Great for creative, strategic thinkers. Many marketers transition from other fields, leveraging skills in communication, data analysis, and customer engagement. Digital marketing is especially high-growth.
Find marketing manager jobs on The Muse
8. Software Developer
Average salary: $138,110/year
Tech jobs are in demand, and coding bootcamps can help you break in—even without a computer science degree. Ideal for problem-solvers and logical thinkers.
Find software developer jobs on The Muse
9. Financial Planner
Average salary: $150,670/year
Perfect if you’re good with numbers and enjoy helping others make smart financial decisions. Start with certifications like CFP (Certified Financial Planner).
Find financial planner jobs on The Muse
Best Career Change Jobs at 40 & 50
Switching careers later in life is more common than you think. Your experience, leadership, and industry knowledge are valuable assets.
“Seize opportunities that excite you,” Oldham says. “No rules or barriers exist—your depth of experience is an advantage in any field.”
Here are some stable, high-reward options:
10. Business Consultant
Average salary: $115,530/year
Use your industry knowledge to assist companies in enhancing operations, profitability, or strategy. Provides flexibility and independence.
Discover consultant careers on The Muse
11. Financial Analyst
Average salary: $112,950/year
Evaluates financial information to inform business decisions. Ideal if you have a finance or budgeting background.
Discover financial analyst careers on The Muse
12. Healthcare Manager
Average salary: $134,440/year
Healthcare is booming. Leadership and organizational skills are key for managing facilities, staff, and compliance.
Find healthcare manager jobs on The Muse
13. HR Manager
Average salary: $154,740/year
Ideal if you’ve handled teams, conflict resolution, or workplace operations. HR shapes company culture, policies, and employee development.
Find HR manager jobs on The Muse
Best Career Change Jobs Over 50
Your experience is a superpower. Focus on roles where your skills and leadership shine.
14. Management Analyst
Average salary: $115,530/year
Help organizations improve efficiency and cut costs. Strategic thinking from past roles translates well here.
Find management analyst jobs on The Muse
15. Fundraiser
Average salary: $70,760/year
Great for sales, marketing, or PR backgrounds. Nonprofits value relationship-building and strategic thinking.
Find fundraiser jobs on The Muse
16. Training & Development Specialist
Average salary: $71,980/year
Create programs to upskill employees. Perfect if you’ve mentored or led teams before.
Find training jobs on The Muse
17. Medical Support Worker
Average salary: $53,690 – $70,260/year
Roles like medical billing or admin require minimal training, making healthcare accessible.
Find medical support jobs on The Muse
High-Paying Career Change Jobs
Some fields offer big salaries but require specialized training or certifications. If you’re willing to invest time, these roles are worth considering:
18. Data Scientist
Average salary: $119,040/year
Analyze data to drive decisions. Usually requires a master’s in data science or strong coding/analytics skills.
Find data scientist careers on The Muse
19. IT Manager
Average salary: $180,720/year
Manage tech infrastructure. Requires a computer science degree (or equivalent) + experience.
Find IT manager careers on The Muse
20. Computer Network Architect
Average salary: $133,930/year
Design safe networks. Calls for a degree in computer science or related field.
Find network architect careers on The Muse
21. Pilot
Average salary: $138,010 – $209,680/year
Pilot cargo or commercial planes. Requires intense training and a commercial pilot’s license.
Find pilot career opportunities on The Muse
22. Financial Manager
Median salary: $174,820/year
Manage company finances. Usually requires a finance degree + experience.
Find financial manager career opportunities on The Muse
How to Select the Best Career Transition
Here’s how to discover a path that aligns with your skills, interests, and aspirations:
Identify Your Values
“Begin by knowing what is important to you—flexibility, creativity, leadership?” Oldham says. “This directs you toward meaningful work.”
Research Careers
Avoid assumptions. Interview individuals in the field through informational interviews. Ask them:
About their career progression
About daily tasks
About future industry trends
Assess Stability & Growth
Consider salary, demand, and opportunities for advancement.
Leverage Transferable Skills
Emphasize skills such as communication, leadership, or problem-solving in resumes.
Plan for Learning
Some jobs need additional training. Consider courses, volunteering, or obtaining certifications.
Final Thoughts
Changing careers can be fulfilling if it is in line with your goals and values. Research and planning can help you transition into a career that has room for growth, fulfillment, and economic well-being.