Many retirees still want, or need, to continue paid work. Although an age bias certainly makes job hunting more difficult as we grow older, increasing numbers of seniors are finding ways to overcome the hurdle as they retire from one career to launch a new one.
If you are among those seeking to continue paid employment, be prepared to use a little fresh thinking about both the type of work you might do and the way you apply for it. Don’t retire—re-launch yourself. There’s a whole new world waiting for you.
Fresh ideas
Just because your previous jobs involved a typical work-week schedule, doesn’t mean your future career has to be the same. Consider how your skills are transferable to other occupations.
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Sign on with head-hunters who specialize in contract or consulting work. Take on freelance projects.
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Register with online job agencies for temporary or virtual project work.
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Try something completely new—work in a bookstore, restaurant, garden centre or pet grooming parlour.
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Join a speakers’ network—lecture about your experiences or skills.
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Be entrepreneurial—start your own business.
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Your hobbies may produce marketable directions—sell your crafts or baking. Sell services like gardening, sewing, painting, carpentry, child care or odd jobs.
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Teach your hobbies to others—contact community colleges or local speaking groups.
Job hunting
Now that you’re ready to get back into the working world, here are some ways to approach your job hunt:
- Assess your skills.
- Brainstorm with friends on how your skills are transferable.
- Reflect on previous achievements—they may suggest new career directions.
- Be flexible about salary—anticipate taking a cut.
- Network, network, network.
- Get up to speed with what’s happening in the industry you’re approaching.
- Polish your résumé and, if necessary, update your computer skills.
- Think of yourself as a product—come up with new ways to sell yourself.
- Offer potential employers the option of permanent or contract work.
- Small companies often have less of an age bias.
Whatever type of paid work you are looking for, nothing will increase your odds of success more than a positive attitude. Believe in yourself, be flexible and be excited about opportunities—the work will follow.
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