How to Find the Perfect Part-Time Job for Seniors
Retirement can be different things to different people. It could be time of great opportunity, discovery, or freedom. However, you might not be quite ready to hang up your hat, sip a mai tai, plop down on your couch and endlessly binge your favorite shows. Many seniors choose to seek part-time work, either to continue to have a sense of purpose, or for financial reasons, or possibly to give back to their community.
If you are a senior looking for a part-time job, there are a few things you might want to keep in mind. First and foremost, have a clear understanding of your skills and goals for seeking work. Don’t forget to consider the most important thing - your personal interests. Seniors have a wealth of experience and skills, and much to offer. Next, consider your availability and flexibility. How many hours can you handle working and how many hours do you want to work? Is your schedule flexible? What other age-related family obligations might you have?
Finally, do some research to find part-time jobs that are suitable for your needs. Consider the impact of part-time work on your lifestyle. With the myriad of opportunities available, you should be able to find something that fits your needs and interests. However, don’t compromise. Many part-time opportunities listed as being perfect for seniors are merely unexciting part-time jobs that may not require much brain power.
Steps to Find the Perfect Part-Time Job for Seniors
Identify your skills and interests. Take some time to consider whatever special skills and talents you may have. It’s important to find work that makes use of your skills, but that you will also enjoy doing. You may want to think about work you would like that is completely unrelated to your work history; for example, are you interested in working with people, animals, or the environment? Once you have honed in on what you really want and can do decently, then you can narrow down your job search.
Assess your personal goals. It’s important that you factor in your personal preferences and needs, so that you can find work that fulfills a purpose in your life, and which may also serve your financial needs.
Consider your availability and flexibility. How many hours are you available to work each week? Are you flexible with your schedule? Some part-time jobs require a set number of hours per week or month, while others are more flexible. Find a job that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Research different part-time jobs for seniors. There are a variety of part-time jobs considered suitable for seniors (or part-timers_. Some options include:
Retail: Working in retail can be a great way to stay active and meet new people. Many retailers offer part-time jobs for seniors, and the hours are often flexible.
Customer service: If you enjoy helping people, customer service may be a good option. This can range from telephone support, to working as a greeter, or fielding customer complaints (or compliments) in person or remotely.
Administrative support: Administrative support jobs include providing clerical and administrative assistance to businesses and organizations. Chances are, if you have had a responsible professional job, you may have had administrative support personnel working for you. Administrative support jobs may seem menial to you. However, bear in mind that there are administrative roles across a variety of functions, including finance and accounting, and a few hours a week of administrative work could be just the thing to keep you connected and earning a few dollars.
Teaching: If you are passionate about education, consider teaching a part-time class at a community college or adult education center.
Volunteering: Volunteering is also a great way to give back to your community while staying active.
Network with people. This is one of the best ways to help determine the kind of part-time job that may suit you, and also to potentially find a job? Talk to your friends, family, and former colleagues to see if they know of any part-time job openings. Networking with people online through social media sites like LinkedIn is always a good strategy.
Prepare for interviews. It may have been a while since you participated in an interview (at least on the interviewee side). It’s important that you prepare and rehearse. Be ready to address any age-related concerns by emphasizing your strengths, your alignment with the role, your passion, and the value you can bring to the organization.
Apply for jobs. Once you have located a few opportunities, apply for them (if they are right for you!) Use online job search platforms and social media to find potential jobs and connect with companies in your area. Always tailor your resume and cover letter for each job. The days of the one size fits all resume are long gone.
Follow up after applying and interviewing. Be sure to follow up with the employer and express strong interest in the position. Be proactive!
Additional Tips for Finding a Part-Time Job for Seniors
Be willing to learn new things. The job market is constantly changing, so you may need to retool. Be willing to acquire new skills and adapt to new technologies. Here are a few resources available to help you identify and enhance your skills after 50:
The AARP Career Resource Center: This site provides a variety of resources fo “older” people (AARP membership is for people over 50). It includes many resources for older workers, including ideas about how to leverage your transferable skills.
The National Career Development Association: This organization offers a number of career development resources. It also includes a list of transferable skills you might apply to your job search.
The Occupational Information Network (O*NET): This is a database that provides information on several occupations. Like the other sites, it also includes transferable skills.
Be positive and enthusiastic. Employers want to hire workers who exhibit energy and passion about the job.
Be prepared to negotiate. Never settle. Be willing to Don't be afraid to negotiate the salary, hours, benefits, or any other terms of any job you are seeking.
Finding the perfect part-time job for seniors can be a challenge, but it is possible, and can offer a fulfilling and balanced lifestyle. Part-time work can also supplement your income while contributing to your learning and growth. Even in your senior years, you can always find purpose. Go for it!