Not applied for a job since the 00's - where do I start?

[dieselfumes]

I'm mid 40's, looking for work and have not applied formally for a job since the 00's.
Things have changed so much since then, I don't know how best to focus my effort. Where should I start?
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Here's my background:
Oxbridge science degree then 20+ years in 3 main jobs:

1. Management consultant - data analysis and modelling to inform business decisions. Transport/logistics/supply chain sectors.
2. Transport/Logistics planning and operations for big temporary events around the world.
3. Sustainable transport - leading a team testing new infrastructure designs for cycling and walking. On and off highway.

Happily took redundancy a year ago. .

I used to have a 'full time full on' approach to work, but after having kids I went part time and appreciate having time for family. Youngest starts school this year.

Haven't kept my work networks up to date as I've been focussed on family and would rather future work was something new with different people.
I'm in a big city with lots of opportunities.
I'm looking for something different enough from what I've done before to be interesting, ideally part time. I've done plenty of leadership but care more about doing interesting work than being in charge. I'm aware I'll likely have to compromise on my ideals.
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So where should I start? All advice gratefully received!

Hello OP, I'm not sure if you're wanting advice regarding potential new career paths, or about job application generally, so I'll suggest a bit of both. If you're not on LinkedIn, then join immediately. As well as setting up or reconnecting with your network, and making yourself much more visible to recruiters, there is a veritable treasure trove of up-to-date training videos on applications/CVs/interviewing etc. There are also fantastic training courses for specific tech software/systems, if you're looking to update or acquire new skills.

Regarding what you could pivot into doing, with your background I'd look into Geographical Information Systems (GIS): it would use your geospatial and data analytics abilities without having to be in a leadership role.

If you can find a reputable career coach (ideally get personal recommendations) and have the money to work with them, then it's a great investment. They can help you figure out what you want to fix what transferable skills you have and how to approach the job hunt and CVS etc

Thanks very much Gummibärchen, and DanceTheDevilBackIntoHisHole.* *

I was asking about job application generally - it sounds ridiculous but I have no idea where the jobs I may be interested in would be advertised these days.

Recommendations of places to look would be wonderful.

I did set up a linkedin profile 20 years ago, but have barely ever used it. I'm not aware of the other stuff on there so that is worth a closer look.

I'm wary there is a lot of content out there, but finding relevant or good quality stuff seems hard. I'm sure the same goes for career coaches - I agree that the right person with the right knowledge could be amazing, the trick is to find them!

However your thoughts about the 'what' have set me off thinking in a useful way too. I'm not sure its me, but GIS is an interesting idea - I've had a fair involvement with GIS but not as a practitioner.

For jobhunting, the place to start is LinkedIn; it really is indispensable these days recruitment-wise. Update your profile, let recruiters find you. Other useful job-boards include Indeed, Glass Door and Reed, these are all quite broad and varied in scope. I also think the career coach suggestion is a great one; I don't have any recs for that, sadly. Anyway, best of luck, OP!

Thanks again Gummibärchen (and I'm also very much enjoying your username taking me back to German lessons in 1992!)

Brave Starts programme is really good.

Have just had a look as I hadn't heard of Brave Start; looks like a smashing resource-- thank you for mentioning it, @podthedog !

Thanks for the tip podthedog, I'll take a look at that too.

I stumbled on it thanks to the algorithm and timing was right. Have done workshops on Linked In, Chat GPT, etc. Lots of networking and met like minded people. Highly recommend and reasonable £.

I've bookmarked this for future reference - thanks again @podthedog !