Tips to come back from retirement
Are you one of the many retirees thinking about returning to the workforce? If so, you're not alone. Nearly 34% of retirees have thought about going back to work because of the current labor shortage.
It's a common misconception that you can never return to work once you retire. There are many ways to unretire and return to the workforce, even if you've been out of the job market for a while.
This article will discuss some of the best ways to return to the workforce after retirement to help you transition smoothly. Remember, it's not too late to start a new career journey.
Why do retirees go back to the workforce?
There are many reasons retirees may choose to return to the workforce. Some may need the extra income to cover unexpected costs or bills, while others simply want to stay active in their later years. Regardless of the reason, many opportunities are available for those who want to return to work after retirement.
Supplement your retirement income
One common reason people choose to return to the workforce is to supplement their retirement income. This is true for those who haven’t saved enough for retirement or who have unexpected costs that arise later in life.
Keep yourself active
Retirement years can be a great time to try something new or reconnect with an old passion. If you're looking for a way to remain active and engaged, returning to the workforce may be the perfect solution. You can use your skills and experience to make a difference in your community or at a company you're passionate about.
Meet new people and make new friends
Another common struggle among retirees is loneliness. If you're looking for a way to meet new people and make new friends, returning to the workforce could be a good option. You'll have the opportunity to interact with co-workers and build relationships that can last a lifetime.
Have a sense of purpose
If you're struggling to find a sense of purpose in retirement, returning to the workforce may help. A job can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride, as well as social interaction and structure. This is incredibly important for those struggling with depression or anxiety in retirement.
Unretiring was once considered taboo, but it's becoming more common as people live longer and healthier lives. It's never too late to start a new career, so don't be afraid to explore your options.
What steps should I take to unretire?
If you want to return to the workforce after retirement, you can take a few steps to make the transition as smooth as possible. The most important thing is to take your time and explore all of your options. Remember, there's no rush to choose a new job. You can always change your mind in the future.
Update your resume
One of the first steps to unretiring is updating your resume. If you've been retired for a while, your resume may be outdated. Makke sure it includes all of your relevant experience, your education, and any professional development you’ve done.
You should also be aware that many companies use an automated system to screen resumes, so ensure your resume is keyword-optimized. Look over the job description and make sure your resume mentions the key skills highlighted. You can also research the best skills to add to your resume to help you stand out from other applicants.
Use your network
If you're looking for a job, networking is key. Talk to your friends, family, and other retirees in your community. You may be surprised by how many people are willing to help you find a job or offer advice on your job search. More than 2.5% of retirees returned to the workforce in one month alone last year, showing how common it is for retirees to make this change.
Consider a temporary or part-time position
Consider a temporary or part-time position if you're not ready to commit to a full-time job. You may be able to find a part-time job with benefits, which is another great way to supplement your income. This can help you transition back into the workforce and decide if you're ready for a more permanent position.
Check job postings online or in the community
Another great way to find a job is to check job postings online with Jobcase or your local community. This is an excellent way to find positions that are a good fit for your skills and experience. You can also reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce or job center. They may have information on job openings in your area.
Research any social security restrictions
If you receive retirement benefits, you should know that working may affect your benefits. It's important to research and understand how working will impact your social security payments. You can hire a financial advisor to help you navigate any changes to your benefits.
While each person will need to take different steps to return to the workforce, these tips can help you get started. Whether you need a way to supplement your income or struggle to find a sense of purpose in retirement, returning to the workforce may be the perfect solution. Some retirees may face age discrimination during their job search, so knowing your rights is important. Regardless of your age, you can find a job that's a perfect fit for your skills and experience.
Top careers for older job seekers
Once you're ready to start working, you may wonder what type of job is right for you. There are several things to keep in mind, such as your skills, experience, and interests. Here are some popular careers for retirees.
Retail sales associate
If you're a people person, you may enjoy working in retail. A retail sales associate is one of the most popular positions for older workers. You'll have the opportunity to interact with customers, help them find what they're looking for, and provide excellent customer service.
Tax preparer
If you're good with numbers, you may want to consider a career as a tax preparer. This is an excellent way to use your skills and experience to help others. Tax preparers typically work during tax season, which means you'll be free to enjoy your retirement for the rest of the year.
Administrative assistant
An administrative assistant supports an organization by handling various tasks. This may include managing schedules, handling correspondence, and preparing presentations. If you're well-organized and have excellent communication skills, this type of job may be an excellent option.
Seasonal associate
A seasonal associate is a temporary employee hired to help with the increased demand during certain times of the year. This may include holidays, summer, or the back-to-school season. Seasonal positions are a way to make extra money while enjoying your retirement.
Delivery driver
If you're looking for a flexible schedule, you may want to consider a job as a delivery driver. This is the perfect position for retirees looking for part-time work with minimal commitment. You'll be responsible for delivering goods and services to customers in your community.
Teacher’s aide
If you love working with children, you may want to consider returning to work as a teacher's aide. You'll assist teachers in the classroom and support students in this role. This is a way to give back and make a difference in your community.
Medical billing/coding specialist
If you have experience in healthcare, a career as a medical billing/coding specialist may be the perfect fit. You'll use your skills to process and submit patient records for insurance reimbursement. This is an excellent job for retirees looking to work part-time hours in an office environment.
Pet sitter
If you love animals, working as a pet sitter could be a great way to earn extra income. You'll be responsible for taking care of pets while their owners are away. This may include feeding, walking, and providing companionship. Most pet sitters work part-time, allowing you the time to still enjoy your retirement.
While these are popular jobs for those looking to unretire, numerous other options are available across different industries. It's crucial to consider your skills and interests when deciding what type of job to pursue. All of your experience is valuable and can be used in different ways.
Stay positive throughout your job search
Searching for a job can be difficult, especially if you haven't done it in a while. It's important to remain positive and maintain a good attitude to increase your chances of success. Remember to update your resume and utilize your network when unretiring to help make the job search easier.
Your skills and experience are important, so don't give up. With a little effort, you're sure to find the perfect job. If you need additional support, check out the Getting Hired Resource Center for more information on how to return to the workforce after retirement.