Working A Little in Retirement May Be Easier Than You Think

November 20, 2019

Working A Little in Retirement May Be Easier Than You Think

Increasingly, Americans older than 65 are finding compelling reasons to return to the workforce, whether part time or full time. Some want the money; some want the challenge and sense of purpose. One factor in their favor: companies in many industries are having a hard time finding enough qualified workers. So far this year, U.S. job openings have outnumbered job applicants. That was also true in 2018. Strong economy or not, this disparity could go on into the future because, generationally speaking, more Americans are exiting the workforce than entering it. So, employers may want older workers with decades of experience to stick around or soon return.

A Harvard Business Review analysis says that by 2025, 25% of U.S. workers are expected to be at least 55 years old. This implies that more than a few doors may be open for retirees who want to work again. You may be one of them. To find compelling work, in which your contributions are valued, think about what your interests are now, as opposed to when you started your career. Announce your job search to your friends and update your skills. Attend meetups and events where you can meet like-minded retirees and employers who respect them and reach back to some of your old career or college contacts.¹