Jobs for retirees can be in two classifications. For example, if economic conditions require it, the job seeker will need to find a full- or part-time job as a necessity. Other retirees will work because they want to keep busy, rather than for necessary income.
1. Get yourself a meaningful job: As a personal example, it was necessary for me to find a job after retiring at age 65. My youngest child had been accepted at an Ivy League university. Tuition and living expenses for each of the next four years were going to be at least $25,000. I found a full-time job as public relations director at a city community center. Although my salary was less than half of what I had been earning before retirement, it just about covered tuition and living expenses for my child.
2. How did I look for the job? Because we moved to a new city, I didn’t know anyone there to ask about job openings. So I put together a killer resume and a portfolio of my best work. My active career was in advertising and public relations, so my portfolio contained samples of my writing and advertising campaigns I had created. I scanned the Sunday newspaper want ads and surfed the internet and answered all I thought could be for me. I was invited in for an interview at the community center and nailed the job.
3. Expect lower income offers. Although you could have been a boss or senior officer in your pre-retirement job, unless you have considerable political pull, any job offers you get will be much lower than what you had been earning. If you’ve put away savings and investments for your retirement years, accept the lower-paying job. You’re looking for something to keep you busy, not trying to climb the ladder again.
4. Accept a part-time job. You’ve worked hard all your life and are retired now. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice too much of your leisure hours. Additionally, consider your health, and if you’re not desperate for money, take a job that only requires you to put in up to four hours a day.
5. Volunteer. If you don’t need money at all, donate as many hours as you can handle. Work for a hospital, museum, charitable agency or coach a bunch of kids.
Finding the best retirement jobs is a matter of personal choice and financial situation. If you need the money, look for a meaningful job that pays at least enough to cover your living expenses. If you’re well fixed financially, go for the jobs that are interesting and fulfilling.