Internships for Adults Over 40 – Opportunities for Career Development

Entering the world of internships as an adult over 40 can be a strategic move for a career change or re-entry into the workforce. It’s increasingly recognised that life experience and maturity can be as valuable as fresh qualifications.

Adult internships, often dubbed ‘returnships’, are tailored to those who have taken a career gap and now seek to re-engage with the professional environment. This trend acknowledges older adults’ diverse skill sets and perspectives, expanding opportunities beyond the traditional graduate market.

Securing an internship in this stage of life requires a polished application that highlights both professional experience and the willingness to adapt to new roles and industries.

Strategies include articulating transferable skills, showcasing continued professional development, and emphasising adaptability. Tapping into an established network and seeking continuous learning opportunities further solidifies your candidacy for these roles.

Internships for Adults Over 40 – Key Takeaways

• Internships can be a stepping stone for over-40s returning to work or changing careers.
• A robust application leverages life experience and transferable skills.
• Networking and upskilling are essential for enhancing employability.

Exploring Internship Opportunities for Adults Over 40

Exploring internships and returnships as an adult over 40 offers a valuable opportunity to reintegrate into the workforce, especially if you wish to pivot into industries like technology or engineering.

The Value of Experience

Internships tailored for skilled workers aged 40 and above acknowledge the substantial experience you bring. Unlike typical internships aimed at younger individuals, these programmes understand that as a mature intern, you offer a unique blend of skills honed over the years, potentially outside the traditional workforce.

Your contributions are not just labour – you offer insight, mentorship, and an invaluable work ethic, especially in areas where seasoned perspectives add significant value.

• Transitioning Industries: Leveraging internship opportunities could be a strategic move for engineers seeking to update their skills or switch specialities within technology and engineering sectors.
• Renewed Skills: A mature internship can provide a platform to modernise your existing skills in line with current industry standards, making you an asset in today’s technology-driven workplace.

Industries Embracing Mature Interns

Specific industries are more proactive in welcoming mature interns, often offering paid positions recognising your life and work experience. Engineering and technology are two sectors deeply invested in returnships, understanding that a diverse workforce, including mature and skilled workers, leads to a robust and innovative environment.

• Technology: At the forefront, the technology industry offers roles where your ability to adapt and bring a fresh perspective to ongoing challenges is highly valued.
• Engineering: Engineering firms, recognising the depth of knowledge and problem-solving solid abilities you possess, actively seek mature interns to fill gaps in their talent pool.

Internships for adults over 40 are not just about filling a position; they represent a commitment to lifelong learning and a recognition of the value seasoned professionals bring to an evolving workforce.

Returnships and Professional Re-entry Programmes

As a professional over the age of 40, I find returnships to be a viable path for transitioning back into the workforce. These programmes are tailored to provide the necessary training and guidance to help you re-launch your career.

Re-launching Your Career

Returnships are essentially paid internships that cater primarily to skilled workers like you who have taken a career break and are looking to re-enter the workforce. You will have the opportunity to receive hands-on training whilst being offered guidance to help you navigate the current corporate landscape.

Critical components of a returnship include:

• Structured Training: You’ll undergo a refresher course to update your skills.
• Mentorship: Experienced professionals offer mentorship, contributing to your professional development.
• Networking Opportunities: You get to connect with industry peers and professional associations.
• Project Work: Engage in real work scenarios to demonstrate your capabilities.

Companies Offering Returnships

Many companies recognise the value of mature, experienced professionals and are now offering returnship programmes. These companies, including significant names like prominent Sachs and PayPal, have crafted these programs to welcome talents like yours back into the corporate fold.

Here are some options you can consider:

• iRelaunch: Co-founded by Carol Fishman Cohen, this organisation is a trailblazer in the field, working with an extensive network of companies to facilitate your re-entry.
• Goldman Sachs: Known for pioneering returnships, they have offered these programmes since 2008.
• PayPal: This company has structured programmes to help reintegrate skilled professionals.

Your return to employment through a returnship could be a chance to work again and a stepping stone to a robust, fulfilling second act in your professional life.

Building a Strong Application

When applying for internships as an experienced professional over 40, you must communicate your value effectively. Your application is your first impression, and it must clearly articulate your experience and skills, tailored specifically to the job you’re eyeing.

Crafting an Impactful CV

Research the industry standards to understand the desired skills and experience for the jobs you’re applying to. Your CV must be up-to-date, with a clear structure that places relevant information at the front

• Personal details: Simple and straightforward, including contact information.
• Profile summary: Concise, no more than 3-4 lines, summarising your critical skills and professional background.
• Work experience: Listed in reverse chronological order, highlighting transferable skills and achievements. Use bullet points for clarity.
• Education: Include any recent training or qualifications pertinent to the role.
• Skills: Tailor this section to match the job description, linking each skill to a real-world application or result from your background.

Strategies for a Persuasive Cover Letter

Your cover letter should complement your CV, not repeat it. Start by showcasing your understanding of the company and the role, and then explain why your experience makes you the perfect fit.

1. Introduction: Capture the employer’s attention with a strong opening line that relates your career background to the company or industry.
2. Body: Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements.
3. Closing: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and propose a next step, such as a discussion or meeting.

Optimising Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is often the first place potential employers go to verify your credentials, so make sure your profile is fully optimised with a professional photo and a headline that reflects your career goals.

• Professional headline: Use relevant keywords that reflect your desired role and skills.
• Summary: Write a compelling narrative that outlines your career experience and what you’re looking for.
• Experience: Ensure it’s current and mirrors your CV, focusing on quantifiable achievements and how they relate to the roles you’re pursuing.
• Skills & Endorsements: List skills relevant to your industry and seek colleague endorsements to add credibility.
• Recommendations: A few solid and professional recommendations can significantly bolster your profile.

Networking and Continuous Learning

To enhance your career trajectory over 40, integrating structured networking and continuous learning into your professional life is crucial. These strategies expand your reach and keep your skills sharp, ensuring you remain competitive in the job market.

Professional Associations and Events

Joining professional associations such as the Society of Women Engineers opens doors to specialised networks, which are invaluable for expanding your professional reach.

• Attend Conferences and Workshops: Participating in these events provides exposure to the latest industry trends and research.
• Engage in Committee Work: Contributing to committees allows you to stand out, demonstrating leadership and your commitment to the professional association.

Leverage these platforms to engage with peers, share knowledge, and learn from the experiences of others in your field.

Leveraging Social Media and Blogs

Social media platforms like LinkedIn are instrumental in building and maintaining professional connections.

• Curate a Professional Profile: Highlight your experience and participate in relevant group discussions.
• Follow Influencers and Blogs: Stay informed with the latest insights in your field, and consider writing a blog to reflect on your learning journey.

By actively engaging with content and contributing your perspectives, you create a personal brand that resonates with your dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.