Yes, it’s a tough job market right now, but seniors have a leg up over many candidates—they’ve been there and done that. They have the maturity, the skills and the experience to do the job. And many are eager and willing to continue working or jump back into the workforce.
The US Department of Labor notes that more seniors than ever (ages 65 to 90) are working now. Here are the top 7 jobs you should look into:
- Freelance writer. I know this one because I’ve seen it first hand. Many of my fellow writers are much older—in their 60s and up. They’re earning a good living doing all sorts of writing and blogging. Thanks to the Internet, opportunities abound and are not limited by your location or age.
- Consultant. You’ve built up quite a number of skill sets and knowledge in your particular field during your 9 to 5 job. Now that you’re retired, you can still sell what you know as a consultant. Use all your old contacts and mine the Internet for consultant jobs. Keep in mind, too, that as a part-time consultant, you can charge hourly rates and bring in the same or even more money than you did when you worked full-time.
- Caterer. If your family and friends are constantly praising your meals and desserts, you can turn your culinary skills into cash after retiring from your full time job. Many retirees have started their own catering businesses. Of course, you don't have to start your own business; you can always offer your services to local catering concerns. It lets you prepare all those delicious creations and desserts without the hassles of accounting, business loans and marketing costs.
- Floral Assistant. Like the caterer route mentioned above, if you’re constantly being praised for your floral arranging skills, you can put that artistic ability to work after retirement. Local florists are always looking for extra help around the holidays and Valentine’s Day. Approach them a week or so before with samples of your floral arranging abilities. Flexible schedules and a knack with flowers make this an ideal job for retirees.
- Tour Guide. If you’re like most seniors, you’ve traveled the world and taken in a lot of knowledge about popular locations and cultures. You’ve seen the museums and wonders of the world others have yet to experience. And just by making it to 65 and beyond, you’ve witnessed a lot of world history unfold in your lifetime. All of which makes you an ideal candidate for tour guide. Many tourist attractions are led by seniors on buses, open air vans and trolleys, so you don’t have to walk if you tire easily.
- Temping. Many retirees, are signing on with temp agencies to fill in for employees who are on vacation or maternity leave, or to help out with short-term projects or holiday overloads.
- Retail Jobs. These positions are becoming increasingly popular with seniors. If you have any kind of management or supervisory experience, you can usually hit the ground running in these positions. These jobs offer flexible schedules and plenty of social interaction.
Post retirement jobs are out there. And chances are you’re more than qualified. You just have to apply yourself and be patient with your younger boss.
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