Part Time Careers

It seems contradictory to say many retired men and women are looking for jobs. The idea of retirement used to mean finishing your career and enjoying some extra time to do the things you love…

But what if you love what you do as a job or the sense of purpose you get? For so many people, the validation and stimulation of working is something they relish. In fact 72% of people over the age of 50 state they want to continue working in some capacity once they retire.
The social aspect, the mental challenge, the change of scenery and the money are all huge drivers. Retirement is an opportunity to look at alternatives, rather than slow down.  This allows the best of both worlds – some extra money in the bank each week, as well as keeping your mind and body young. Others even use this time to volunteer or choose a route they may not have ventured down before. A craft or hobby for example could now be a nice little side earner on top of your pension plan.

Think laterally when it comes to planning a satisfying working retirement.

Working in retail takes patience, experience and skill. The working hours can be quite varied and flexible, and a cool, mature head is always needed when it comes to resolving issues and offering sage advice. Retail staff need to have a genuine love and tolerance for people – you can’t fake it! Retail is busy and will keep you literally on your toes, so is most suitable to a fairly active person.

Share your knowledge – experience is invaluable. While you may need a teaching certificate to run your own classroom, you could consult to companies in your field of expertise.

Work your hobby – If you have a pastime you really enjoy, perhaps you could set up a group in your community and share your passion with others. It may evolve int a community project – a gardening group could benefit less physically able people in your community, and they could contribute baking or sewing as a trade.

Volunteer – working doesn’t need to be paid to satisfying or challenging. Ask your local kindergarten or school if they need volunteers (they always do!), or visit people in hospitals and rest homes.

Ask your boss for a change – you may be able to renegotiate your contract to work fewer hours so you can reduce stress and increase your free time. For your employer, they benefit by keeping your knowledge and experience, while saving a bit of money.

Retirement means different things for different people, but doing something you enjoy is the key. It could be continuing in the career you’ve invested so many years in already or starting something totally new and exciting. Keep your mind open to new ideas and suggestions.