By Barbara W.
Retirement used to be considered a time when you finally got to slow down after a long career, and maybe improve your golf game or travel to places on your bucket list. But as increasing numbers of retirees are living longer, they have a lot of extra time and energy. Whether it’s to supplement income, stay mentally sharp, or simply because you miss being around people, older adults are reentering the workforce. Going back to work after retirement doesn’t necessarily mean jumping straight into a fulltime job, but finding the right opportunity - which is not always an easy process.
Ageism still exists, although many companies are becoming more open to a multigenerational workforce. A standard resume and a practiced interview alone will not suffice anymore. So being creative and diligent will yield the best results.
The desirable skills of a retiree are not necessarily a checklist from the job description, but the patience and leadership skills acquired over many years of employment. Most retirees have lived through considerable change: from telephones and fax machines, to emails, laptops and ZOOM interviews. You’ve seen the economy fluctuate, companies be acquired and bosses come and go. Most of all, the rules have changed. If you are at retirement age, you have experienced a lot of change! This is the experience that best serves you when seeking a job after retirement, or over 50.
Especially if you are living on a fixed income, or have limited retirement savings, the increased cost of living is a huge issue. Basics like groceries, rent, and healthcare are no longer affordable. Social Security checks are not enough to cover basic expenses. So, working part-time or even full-time, for many, has become a necessity. And finding a job after retirement can be a lifeline.
Not everyone who goes back to work does it just for the paycheck. After spending years in the same routine, the sudden switch to staying home and losing one’s identity can become disorienting.
Finding a job provides structure, social interaction, and learning, as well as a paycheck. Some seek out volunteer work, others try something totally different from what they have done before.
A friend of mine who had enjoyed an amazing 40-year career in financial services used her retirement chapter to pursue opportunities in the arts. She is now not only fundraising for various theater organizations, but she has also started to take on minor roles on the stage. She is so excited about using another part of her brain, and she’s earning a small paycheck, as well.
Many seniors are supplementing their incomes by building their own small businesses and pursuing a “side hustle”. Whether reselling thrifted items online, tutoring or selling consulting services, there are ways to become your own boss, fulfill a passion and generate income. There are many tutorials online to teach retirees how to reinvent themselves. If you are considering starting a side hustle or business, checkout this article about “Starting an Online Business after 60”. https://seniorentrepreneurhub.com Turning your passion into a side hustle might help you find a new career that brings both joy and financial success!
Many companies are starting to value older workers who bring life experiences, problem-solving skills and professionalism to the workplace. They are able to mentor younger employees and provide a meaningful contribution.
In fact, some businesses are actively working to build multigenerational teams because they have discovered that it makes for an improved and vibrant workplace. Including different age groups within an organization creates a more interesting and layered workforce.
If there is a company you admire or a store you love visiting, check out their websites. Many businesses have career programs specifically for older workers or retirees. A recent U.S. News &World Report Article listed 15 areas where seniors might find employment. From Health Services, Education, Retail, Financial Services, and more, there were many from which to choose. (https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/in-demand-jobs-for-seniors). Some well-known companies like CVS, Walmart, Humana, Home Depot, Bank of America, H&R Block, Apple and Microsoft are known to have special hiring programs to onboard seniors. But there may also be local businesses in your city or neighborhood who will also value employees over 50 or 60.
Most retirees prefer flexibility, and may want part-time, remote, seasonal, or contract-based jobs. Finding the right opportunity will require diligence and creativity.
At this point in your life, you have met and/or worked with hundreds of people. So put these contacts to good use! Networking is where you should start your journey to reenter the workforce. Instead of submitting a resume and hoping for a response, start by contacting former colleagues or friends in the companies or industries where you are hoping to work. Let everyone know that you are open to opportunities. Alumni associations, community and professional organizations will also help you expand your networking. Often a job for retirees is not found through traditional methods, but in casual conversations and places where you least expect it. Even having coffee at Starbucks may yield an unexpected opportunity.
LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms are another great place to begin your job search. Many retirees are reluctant to learn Social Media skills, but networking through these venues is critical. Learn how to create a strong LinkedIn profile which showcases your professional experience and achievements. This will broaden exposure to recruiters as well as connect with former colleagues or friends. Setting your LinkedIn and Instagram profiles up with language that shows you are “Open to Work” will trigger many recruiters.
Attend workshops, join clubs, and network with people who share your passions. You never know where the next exciting opportunity might surface.
The obvious organizations like AARP, have Job Boards specifically dedicated to companies and positions for job seekers over 50. They not only list opportunities but also provide resources to help seniors improve skills or transition to new industries, such as:
However, job boards should basically be a source for research; many times finding a job by applying through the job board, alone, may end up with no results. It’s preferable to combine networking, and even cold-calling, along with submitting your resume. Remember that age-bias still exists, so focus on interacting on a personal basis, when possible.
On TikTok and other Social Media platforms, there are individuals specifically talking about companies who are hiring retirees. Learn how to scroll through these websites to gather more information about companies valuing older people.
One of the best parts about returning to the workforce after retirement is that you have the opportunity to pivot away from your former career and try something new. This may require updating or learning new skills. Technology is changing so quickly, it is imperative that you remain current.
Online courses through Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, YouTube and ChatGPT can help you acquire new skills. Some community colleges, associations and libraries also offer tech classes for seniors.
Reinventing your existing credentials, or learning new skills will not only make you more marketable, but will also keep your mind active and be fun at the same time.
Age discrimination continues to be a real issue, so how you present yourself can make a big difference. Because so many resumes are generated via AI, often hiring managers are inclined to dismiss standard applications.
Today, they want to know the real person: what motivates you? what is your energy? what value can you bring?
So thinking creatively, and writing a bio that shows your authenticity, along with your experience, will attract more attention. Consider submitting a “Disruptive Cover Letter”, and possibly attaching a video. In this way, they can assess your writing skills and experience your personality, as well.
A “Disruptive Cover Letter” says more about WHY you feel connected to that particular company and job by telling a story. What is your motivation for applying to this specific company? Show your enthusiasm about starting a new chapter, and get the recruiter excited about you! Weave in unique aspects of your background and career highlights, showing that you are qualified. And close with a thank you message and a reminder about your enthusiasm.
Attach a revised copy of your resume that focuses mainly on the experience and skills that match their requirements. Because you do not want the recruiter to eliminate you due to your age, here are some additional tips to consider:
You know that you still have a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking for a paycheck, a purpose, or a new adventure, this next chapter is yours to explore. And it might just be the most rewarding time yet!