What do you do if you're an outside sales professional facing challenges in your late career?

2 Update your knowledge and tools

The second step to facing challenges in your late career is to update your knowledge and tools. The outside sales landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, trends, and customer expectations. To stay competitive and relevant, you need to keep learning and adapting. You can do this by taking online courses, attending webinars, reading blogs and books, and joining professional networks. You also need to upgrade your tools, such as your CRM software, your mobile devices, your presentation skills, and your social media presence.

3 Leverage your experience and network

The third step to facing challenges in your late career is to leverage your experience and network. You have a valuable asset that many younger sales professionals lack: your accumulated wisdom and connections. You can use this to your advantage by sharing your insights, mentoring others, and generating referrals. You can also use your network to explore new opportunities, such as cross-selling, upselling, or switching to a different industry or role.

4 Balance your work and life

The fourth step to facing challenges in your late career is to balance your work and life. As an outside sales professional, you might face a lot of pressure, stress, and travel. This can take a toll on your health, happiness, and relationships. To avoid burnout and maintain your well-being, you need to set boundaries, prioritize your tasks, delegate when possible, and take breaks. You also need to make time for your hobbies, family, friends, and self-care.

5 Plan your retirement and transition

The fifth step to facing challenges in your late career is to plan your retirement and transition. You might have different options for your retirement, such as working part-time, consulting, volunteering, or starting a new venture. Whatever you choose, you need to prepare financially, emotionally, and practically. You need to set a realistic budget, save and invest wisely, and consult a financial planner. You also need to communicate your plans to your employer, colleagues, and customers, and ensure a smooth handover.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?