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It's clear that lots of people have warmed to the idea of encore careers and have an interest in getting started. But as Civic Ventures founder Marc Freedman always says, finding work that provides both money and meaning is still a do-it-yourself project without many established pathways. That's why I recently joined Civic Ventures -- to help figure out new ways to help people as they move into encore careers.

As I settled into my new position here, I was thrilled to get my hands on the new Get Started Guide, which is loaded with useful information and resources for anyone eager to create an encore career. The Guide begins with some basics on how to think about mid-career transitions as well as specifically transitioning to the nonprofit sector. It continues with solid job-hunting tips and targeted advice for those over 50.

The Guide also tackles important questions like how to prepare for potentially earning less money (though that won't be the case for all encore careers), how to update job skills, how to finance a career change, how to volunteer your way into a job and how to move from corporate to nonprofit work. Finally, it has meaty sections on specific sectors -- health care, education, green jobs, government -- and on becoming a social entrepreneur. Sprinkled throughout are profiles of people thriving in encore careers.

Please spend some time with the Guide and tell us what you think in the comments. Are the tips and resources useful? Are there others you would add? We plan to update the Guide frequently and welcome your input.