According to the 2005 MetLife Foundation/Civic Ventures New Face of Work Survey, 50 percent of Americans age 50-70 plan to work during their retirement in jobs that contribute to the greater good. Unlike their parents who enjoyed sizable pensions and an early retirement age, survey participants cited the need for continued income, greater flexibility in retirement jobs, and the desire to be active and productive during their Golden Years as reasons for taking a job in retirement.
The Face of Work After Retirement
Seniors who choose to return to the workforce during retirement enjoy a wide variety of career paths. However, many earn a living on their own terms rather than working for a large corporation. For example, some seniors choose to run a Bed and Breakfast, sell their arts and crafts, or open a boutique store. Other seniors find retirement jobs as consultants in information technology, science, bookkeeping, and accounting.
Best Retirement Jobs for Seniors Re-Entering the Workforce
Seniors seeking jobs in retirement may want to consider customer-service related positions including store greeters, cashiers, retail sales clerks, and hospitality jobs (e.g., hotel front desk or concierge). Those who held pre-retirement executive and managerial positions may want to consider management jobs and consulting work. Healthcare is a good option for senior jobs and includes pharmacists and nurses. Other senior jobs for retirees include
- librarians
- customer service representatives
- school bus drivers
- crossing guards
- restaurant and cafeteria workers
Guidelines for Re-Entering the Workforce During Retirement
Starting a new job in retirement can be both emotional and exciting at the same time. However, it is not unlike seeking work before retirement. This includes basic job-searching skills such as a self-examination, networking, updating skills, and searching job listings. Seniors should follow some simple guidelines including:
- Preparation. Prepare for work by assessing interests, skills, passions, and career strengths. Try to match a new job opportunity to personality and interests. For example, a former botanist may enjoy working for a local garden center; or an entrepreneur may wish to start a small business.
- Networking. Talk to people in the field of interest, and consider online social networking as a means of making new contacts. Linkedin.com is a wise choice for business and employment networking.
- Updating skills. If starting in a new career or even simply to brush up on old job skills, it’s a great idea to take advantage of online distance learning and local community colleges who offer adult learning courses. This is especially important for jobs involving computers and information technology, as software programs change all the time.
- Search jobs online. Seniors can take advantage of mainstream internet job search engines including Monster and CareerBuilder. However, some specific online job search engines include Workforce50, RetiredBrains.com, and Seniors4Hire.org.
The Bottom Line on Jobs in Retirement
Depending on the occupation, finding jobs in retirement can be challenging. Not only must the senior be on the up-and-up when it comes to job skills, but he or she must also learn how to work around occasional age discrimination. However, with careful planning and some good ‘ol fashioned entrepreneurial spirit, finding a retirement job can be both financially and emotionally rewarding.
See related articles, “How to Keep the Mind Sharp During Retirement,” “How to Deal With the Emotion of Retirement," and "Smart Money Management Tips for Seniors.”
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