by Karen Weeks of elderwellness.net
As we get older, we typically look forward to retirement. However, retirement can get boring fast. If you are ready to go back to work or don’t want to quit your career altogether, keep reading. Here, we will take a look at a few ways you can continue to earn a paycheck and stave off boredom, all without committing an entire 40 hours each week.
Go Remote
First things first: If you are already working, now might be a great time to talk to your boss about working from home. If you are getting ready to retire, you may be able to work out a part-time employment deal where you can continue to mentor younger employees without having to come into the office. Before you ask, make sure that you have a communication plan and all of the equipment you need to get the job done. This will include a newer computer, high-speed internet, and any special equipment you would use on-site.
If the boss says no and you decide to cut the cord for greener pastures but still want to work, you can use online job boards to find new job opportunities. Whether you want to work in customer service, marketing, sales, or any other industry, Upwork and similar sites can help you find a part-time remote position that matches your skillset and availability.
Many performing artists have also had to adapt to the current pandemic situation and need to find remote work in areas other than live performances. Retirement is also adapting; you have to strike a balance between work and rest, and on top of that, now we all have to adapt to the current world situation. Fortunately, there are opportunities available. The below section provides suggestions that are great for seniors who are now retired as well as performing artists of any age who have lost their job due to the pandemic.
A New You
When you’re not quite sure what, exactly, you want to do, there are lots of options to consider.
A few of these are:
- ESL teacher. Working as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher is a rewarding career that you can do either remotely through companies or as a tutor at your local school. Of course, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree, and it’s best if you’re a native English speaker. However, if you are already a retired teacher, this is an exceptional opportunity to supplement your income.
- Tax preparer. You do not have to have a background in accounting to become a seasonal tax-preparation worker. H&R Block offers a tax preparer course for $149, which covers 60 hours of tax topics. Anyone can take the class, and neither a high school diploma or GED is required. If you are looking for some extra cash to fund your summer vacation plans, this is it.
- Customer service representative. You won’t need a degree or years of experience to work in customer service. What you will need, however, is the ability to talk to people when they are at their worst. Since most customer service jobs are hourly, you should have no problem finding an opportunity to work as little or as much as you want.
- Freelance writer. Freelance writers come from all walks of life. If you have expertise in a particular area, then using your knowledge to publish information for the next generation of professionals may be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. Consider reaching out to industry publications or to local businesses with whom you already have a relationship. For example, if you’re a retired dentist, check with your current oral care provider to see if they could use informational articles for their blog or website.
- Start your own business. Last, but not least, armed with your skill set, a laptop and a great idea, it’s easier now than ever before to start a small business online from home. And the possibilities are endless. With a wealth of resources available for entrepreneurs ready to take the leap, you can narrow down your niche and find an area where your skills or product are needed. Keep in mind, however, that you’ll need to take steps to make sure your business is a legal entity, which, for example, may include filling out paperwork to classify it as an LLC (requirements vary by state).
These suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to generating income after retirement. Moreover, this puts you in the driver’s seat so you can set your own schedule and work on your own terms. From working in customer service to helping people manage their yearly tax burden to starting your own business and everything in between, don’t be afraid to jump back into the job pool. You never know when your expertise will prove helpful.
Image via Pexels