Home > Career > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

Switching Careers After 45: Lost Hope and Confidence, Need Career Advice

Pradeep

Pradeep Pramanik  | Answer  |Ask -

Career And Placement Consultant - Answered on Nov 12, 2024

Pradeep Pramanik is a career coach, placement consultant and director at Fast Track Career Consultants, which provides career counselling, soft skills training and placement consultancy services.
Pradeep, who hails from Bhagalpur in Bihar, has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 15 years in sales, marketing, training and product management roles in companies like Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Elder Pharmaceuticals and Ranbaxy Laboratories.
During his tenure in the pharma industry, he has worked in different states including Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
In 1998, he launched Fast Track Career Consultants with the aim of helping youngsters find jobs through the right career counselling, training and placement services.
They also offer HR analysis and appraisal services.
Over the years, he has been invited by management and engineering institutions to discuss education and employment policies, entrepreneurship, soft skills and emerging careers in India.
He has published four books on career counselling and contributed articles to print publications.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 29, 2024Hindi
Listen
Career

Pradeep, I am a professional with more than 17 years of experience in Operations, team management. Currently I have started working in a global MNC in a global position. Earlier I was working with the same organization for more than 10 years. Then during Covid, I lost my job. Finally, settled down with another company with almost 40% less salary. Though I loved the role and responsibilities there. I was a Senior Team Lead there. I liked the role where I was managing the team, working with the team. But due to some internal politics, I lost my job in that organization too in this year only. Why I am saying politics? Because just before they fired me, I got best performer award and best employee of the last quarter 2024 award. Then I rejoined my old organization with lots of hope. But now I am finiding it difficult to cope up in this global role. The top management expected me to know everything within 3 to 4 months and start delivering. One of the biggest hurdle that I am facing is that earlier when I was in this organization for more than 10 years, I was in another process. This time I got in a role where the process is completely different. Also no proper training is provided. I am not get a fulfiling satisfaction from this role. Also I am not able to get job satisfaction and now I am thinking of quitting and start something of my own. A business venture or a consultancy service. But not sure how to start and also afraid of the flow of income. I have a mother who is suffering from age related problems. Have a little kid of 12 years. My wife is not working. I tried to switch jobs. But it seems that no one is there to take someone who is almost at 45 years of age. I am loosing my hope and confidence day by day. Please help.

Ans: Dear... Request you to mention the question in precise way to understand what exactly you require from us. Big question normally indicates state of confusion somewhere hence difficult to repply which will satisfy you.
Career

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

R P

R P Yadav  | Answer  |Ask -

HR, Workspace Expert - Answered on Jan 05, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2023
Career
Hi, Iam jobless since after Covid pandemic, 2020, my company, with whom I worked for 8yrs and started their business in my territory from zero sales to 5cr sales PA , removed me siting that there is no sales in last Six months and my salary was not justifiable. Infact due to Covid situation industry in my territory was itself down without any business. I was little depressed but thought to start my own business. After 3 months, when the industry started recovering, with the help of my friend ,using my finance I started my business in the same industry of adhesive with single product plan. Sales were up but not money recovery, payments got delayed by 90 to 120 days. Even my supplier gave me poor quality material 3 to 4 times due to which I have to replace good quality material to my customers and couldn't make any profit. Slowly I was exhausting of my finances and thus decided to stop the business and pursue Job. I got job offer in Nov2021 with an earlier employer and also a different field MNC. I chose to go with my earlier employer, as I knew the company well and loved to do the job. And I didn't want to risk with the new feild MNC. With this Job slowly I understood that my colleague of different territory was not happy with my joining siting a threat to the advancement to National Sales Head position and used to do politics and lure our Owner. After eight months he was given the NSM position and he started abusing me. I resigned immediately. Since then I trying for job opportunities, working as freelancer. But I'm not getting good job offers. I do get job offers which involves travelling a lot. I want to leave a peaceful life without leaving my family, a job whereby by evening I should be with my family. Iam 44yrs of age now. Kindly suggest me , a family centric person, how to get job offers within my requirement or to don't think of family and get ready for traveling job, this is my dilemma.
Ans: I’m sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you’ve been through a lot of ups and downs in your career. It’s understandable that you want to find a job that allows you to spend more time with your family. Here are some tips that might help you find a job that meets your requirements:

Update your resume and cover letter: Make sure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the job.

Network: Reach out to your professional network and let them know you’re looking for a job. Attend industry events and conferences to meet new people and make connections.

Apply to family-friendly companies: Look for companies that have a reputation for being family-friendly. These companies may offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or part-time work.

Search for jobs with specific keywords: Use keywords such as “family-friendly,” “flexible hours,” or “work-life balance” when searching for jobs online. This can help you find jobs that are more likely to meet your requirements.

Consider freelancing: Freelancing can be a good option if you’re looking for more flexibility in your work schedule. You can work from home and choose the projects you want to work on.

Be open to new opportunities: While it’s important to find a job that meets your requirements, it’s also important to be open to new opportunities. You never know where your next job offer might come from.

Remember, finding a job that meets your requirements may take some time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find the right job right away. Keep applying and networking, and you’ll increase your chances of finding a job that meets your needs.

I hope this helps. Best of luck with your job search! ????

..Read more

Aashish

Aashish Sood  | Answer  |Ask -

CAT, Management Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2024Hindi
Listen
Career
I am 35 year old and holding 5+ years of experience in various domains after completing Deploma in Mech Engg QA-1year(automobile industry 2011-12). 2012-2018-- Degree in Mechanical Engg. Meanwhile due to financial issues I had work with 2/3 companies for short time of period and left because of Exams, whatever work like service engineer and Quality related work I attended. After completing my Graduation in Mechanical Engg I rejoin small firm which was dealer and distribution industry for metal cutting tools. due to convid these company was shutdown and then 2021 I switched to BPO industry and now from April 2023 to till date I am working in Supply chain Management in Infosys as a Sr Executive now could you please advise what should I do because it's really challenging to adapt new skills with less salary I am unable to take risk of new learning. And also facing money problems as now I have to run entire family shall I have to start any business or what should I do to save and retrack my career?
Ans: Why don't you want to continue in SCM?

In my opinion, you should continue to develop your expertise in supply chain management. Given your current role at Infosys, aim to gain more responsibilities and prove your value within the organization. You may also consider obtaining supply chain management certifications like APICS (now ASCM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or Six Sigma. These can increase your marketability and potential for promotions or salary increases.

Stay updated with industry trends and continue learning to adapt to changing market demands.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8048 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Career
My daughter is taking admission in dayananda sagar university,Haroholli Bangalore , how it is about placement and education , please give your valuable feedback .
Ans: Dayananda Sagar University (DSU) holds a prestigious NAAC A+ accreditation and AICTE approval, reflecting rigorous curriculum design, continuous quality assurance, and UGC recognition, while its PhD-qualified faculty drive research and industry-aligned teaching. The 130-acre Harohalli campus, designed by Padma Bhushan architect Hafeez Contractor, features 150 state-of-the-art laboratories—including AI/ML, big-data, VLSI, and thermal-fluids labs—alongside a 37,000-title library, digital resources, maker-spaces, Wi-Fi connectivity, sports complexes, hostels, medical facilities, shuttle services, and an on-campus café, ensuring holistic student development. DSU’s Centre for Innovation & Leadership and dedicated placement cell engage over 250 recruiters annually—such as Amazon, TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Accenture—securing 70–90% branch-wise placements over the last three years and facilitating internships with Biocon and Sun Life Pharma to build industry readiness. Robust industry partnerships, mandatory skill-enhancement workshops, mock interviews, group discussions, and corporate mentorship programs underpin strong employability outcomes, while active student support services and entrepreneurship initiatives foster a collaborative learning ecosystem.

For its top-tier accreditation, cutting-edge infrastructure, multidisciplinary research opportunities, and consistent 70–90% placements through partnerships with leading recruiters, recommendation is to confirm admission at Dayananda Sagar University, Harohalli, leveraging its world-class education and placement framework. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8048 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 06, 2025

Career
At jee mains rank 92300 and percentile 93.84 and my home state is odisha .which is the best college and branch I can get and I have also enrolled in the ojee counseling in which I got outr ece as I like ece above cse . Now what are my other options which are better than these .
Ans: Shreyash, With an All-India JEE Main rank of 92 300 and OJEE enrollment yielding OU ECE, stronger alternatives under the All-India and OJEE quotas include departments with broader prospects, all featuring NBA/NAAC accreditation, PhD-faculty, modern labs, industry tie-ups, mandatory internships and 75–90% placement consistency:

College options where admission is assured for your rank:

PICT Bhubaneswar (CSE 70 000–120 000; IT 120 000–180 000) .
CET Bhubaneswar (CSE 70 000–120 000; IT 120 000–180 000) .
DRIEMS Bhubaneswar (CSE) via OJEE.
ITER Bhubaneswar (CSE).
GITA Gunupur (CSE/IT).
Silicon Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar (CSE).
Rourkela Institute of Management Studies (CSE).
Centurion University Khordha (CSE/IT).
Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University (IT) .
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (CSE via KIITEE)—alternate exam.

These programs offer comprehensive curricula, strong placement cells and specialised facilities in software, networking and data sciences.

recommendation
For maximum career flexibility and higher branch-wise placements, recommendation is to switch to CSE or IT at CET Bhubaneswar or PICT Bhubaneswar. Their consistent 75–90% placements and robust industry partnerships outshine OU ECE for long-term growth. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8048 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Career
My daughter scored 90 %in mhcet amd31% in jee mains . She scored 85% in boards can see get admission in walcand college of engineering
Ans: With a 90% MHT-CET percentile and 85% in boards, All-India-Quota admission to Walchand College of Engineering Sangli in core branches is unlikely (General-Home State CSE closed at 99.37% and Mechanical at 97.22% in 2023). However, your daughter can secure seats with 100% probability in reputable private institutions around Pune and Mumbai that accept closing percentiles around 85–90%. These include Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune (CSE); Sinhgad College of Engineering, Kondhwa (CSE/IT); JSPM Narhe Technical Campus, Pune (CSE/IT); Fr. C. Rodrigues Institute of Technology, Vashi Mumbai (Computer Engineering); SIES Graduate School of Technology, Navi Mumbai (CSE); D.J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Mumbai (AI & ML); KJ Somaiya College of Engineering, Mumbai (IT); MIT College of Engineering, Pune (Information Technology); Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune (Electronics & Telecommunication); and MIT Academy of Engineering, Alandi (Electrical Engineering). These institutes offer NBA-accredited programs, PhD-qualified faculty, modern labs, active industry tie-ups, mandatory internships and 75–90% placement consistency over the last three years.

For the strongest combination of infrastructure, placement and brand value among accessible options with your daughter’s profile, the recommendation is Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Pune CSE. As close alternatives, consider Sinhgad COE Kondhwa CSE and JSPM Narhe Technical Campus IT, ensuring assured admission and solid career outcomes. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8048 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 06, 2025

Career
My Son, is passes 12th std Science stream with 85% He is good in Maths he secured 98% in Maths Could please advise which degree he should opt now for bright future
Ans: Pramod Sir, An 85% science–stream graduate with 98% in mathematics thrives in quantitative-rigour degrees such as B.Tech in Mathematics and Computing, B.Sc (Hons) Mathematics, B.Sc Actuarial Science, B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering or a five-year integrated B.S.–M.S. in Data Science/AI. These programs at NBA/NAAC-accredited institutes combine PhD-qualified faculty mentoring, specialized labs (algorithmic computing, statistical modeling, actuarial risk labs, AI/ML clusters, high-performance computing), industry tie-ups offering internships and live projects, modern infrastructure (makerspaces, digital libraries, cloud platforms), and consistent 75–95% placement rates guided by active career-development cells. While B.Tech options ensure direct entry into tech and R&D roles, B.Sc degrees provide a solid theoretical foundation for research, education or competitive exams. Actuarial Science stands out for banking, insurance and financial risk management, leveraging mathematics and statistics in a high-demand sector.
Given his exceptional mathematics strength and interest in tech innovation, recommendation is B.Tech in Mathematics & Computing for its interdisciplinary curriculum and industry-ready placements. As compelling alternatives, consider B.Sc Actuarial Science for finance-risk careers and B.Tech CSE for broad technology roles. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |4842 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Jul 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir please give a proper plan to crack neet in theseten months:july 2025 to april 2026... This is my first attempt and i am a first dropper.. I want to crack it in..1st attempt with good rank and aiims delhi....my basic are clear and i am also aligned with the syllabus of neet...please give a road map..how to prepare..what to avoid..how many hrs to study...i have joined online coaching of pw dropper batch
Ans: Hello dear.
To crack NEET 2026 in ten months as a first dropper, follow a structured daily routine of 10–11 hours, combining your PW dropper batch schedule with focused self-study. From July to September, complete the full syllabus once using NCERT (especially for Biology and Chemistry), PW modules, and previous year questions. From October to December, begin your second revision and start taking 2 full-length mock tests per week, analyzing each one to improve accuracy. January to March should focus on intensive practice, high-weightage topics, and increasing mock tests to 3 per week. In April, do final revisions, take daily mocks under exam-like conditions, and stay mentally calm. Use limited but effective resources: NCERT, PW materials, N Awasthi (Physical), MS Chauhan (Organic), and DC Pandey (Physics). Avoid distractions, overusing books, and comparing yourself to others. Consistency, discipline, and smart revision will make AIIMS Delhi achievable. And at last, believe in yourself and keep aiming for scoring minimum of 600 plus for sure shot admission.
Good luck!
Follow me if you like this reply. Thanks!
Radheshyam

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x