According to statistics, more seniors are working fulltime and they are steadily gaining in numbers over the last 10 years or so. It was even stated that seniors 50 years and above are amongst the fastest growing labor groups to date. This is primarily due to the fact that seniors today are delaying their retirement for varying reasons such as inadequate retirement income, staying active and social relationships.
With the economic crisis lingering the air, it’s not quite hard to imagine if seniors will prefer working even if they are way past their retirement age. Just imagine the medical bills and household expenses; it’s getting hard to keep up with those ever increasing price tags right? So what’s a senior got to do? Hold on to the job as long as he possibly can.
Others who made it financially stable to their golden years still keep their jobs for personal satisfaction or most likely, they will jump from one occupation to another—this other job being flexible, high-paying or both. There are no shortage of jobs though, since demands for senior workers are also growing rapidly.
Based on surveys made to seniors, some of them plan to continue working beyond their retirement age while others would work part time jobs just to stay connected with their communities. Part time jobs provide additional income for other expenses, both planned and unplanned likewise for starting their own businesses. Significantly small number of seniors stated that they will no longer work after they reach retirement.
Referral services are now aimed at seniors looking for work. These services are dedicated to support seniors in the workforce since they believe that seniors have the right to stay around longer that they used to. Some employers prefer seniors over younger adults since seniors are well-trained, experienced, dedicated to do the job and they are less likely to fool around like teenagers do. Seminars and trainings conducted by various organizations are now offered to seniors giving them business ideas and tips on how to start again.
To be able to land a job, seniors must refresh their interview skills while applying some touch-ups with their talents by joining short courses related to their desired line of work. It is also best to look for employers who respects seniors’ age. Bear in mind that you don’t have to adapt a “grab-while-you-can” attitude because there are far too many jobs for seniors to choose from. It’s never too late for continual learning and education, just pick the job that interests you the most which offers flexible time and less pressure on your part. Moreover, this job should optimize your hard-earned knowledge and experience to their highest potential.
Americans today, particularly seniors live longer and healthier lives than ever before. Their talents and skills are highly valued and much needed in today’s workforce since their personal branding is already established. Some seniors do it for the money while others take volunteer jobs to help train younger workers reach their goals in chosen fields. In return, volunteer seniors gain steady social connections and community acceptance, both are essential in seniors’ lives. Whatever reasons there might be, seniors today are nowhere near retirement and they are certainly taking over the workforce!
