Would you take a pay cut for your career development?

[Secondary23]

I like my job, it's flexible & fits around my family, pays well and the team are lovely. BUT it's not in an industry I am passionate about, there is no where I can progress and because it's a small company I haven't made any work 'friends' (Not sure if this exists much anymore or not). Would you take a pay cut to move into a new industry and company where you can develop your interests and career? I'm in my 40's so not sure if it's a little late

How much of a cut?

I've taken two sideways career moves, one dropping a few k which wasn't worth moving for and again moving for parity which definitely was.

@Butterflyfern just a couple of £k. But I work in sales and my personality doesn't really lend to the money driven motives. I see people with a specialism and like the idea of doing something which interests me. But also a little scared of it not going to plan at my age. Did your moves go as you hoped?

You've another 20 years of work, it's not too late!
What is it you're fancying doing next OP?

You have TWENTY YEARS more of work potentially. Definitely not too late! Follow the path that makes you excited

Do it, you’re only half way through your working life.

I took a pay and grade cut to move into a new (although linked) industry at 49. More specialist role and in a very different environment. In three years I’ve been promoted 3 times and pretty much doubled my salary. Do it.

Thank you for the kind comments! I'm thinking of the education sector in a non teaching role. I worked in it previously then moved away years ago. So it would be like starting again. Of course it would also mean losing bonuses etc (but they aren't guaranteed).

@Isthisjustnormal that is so inspirational! So pleased it worked out for you! I just feel a bit stuck where I am and figure maybe if I take a hit now it will possibly be a benefit in the long term

Awww, thanks! I’m not going to lie, it was scary to do. And actually I probably could have come in higher up the ladder when I joined. But actually for me personally, building up my confidence in a new area and seeing how many transferable skills I bought that I’d undervalued was really important

What helped me when I was switching was thinking, what’s the worst that can happen? If you hate it, the option to go back is always there: doors rarely close behind you as hard as you anticipate!

I took a drop after mat leave. It actually worked out as I learnt new skills that eventually helped me get a better job.

@hopeishere that's so great to hear! Seems like a jump of faith is all that is needed. I always worry about what if it doesn't go to plan but I suppose I won't know unless I try. I've just become comfortable and now want to be challenged!