10 Great Jobs for Retirees
Many employers now offer formal and informal programs allowing retirees to phase out of work, shedding responsibilities and hours while remaining a useful part of the team. Check in with your boss or human resources department to see whether this could be an option for you.
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Take the knowledge you gained on the job and share it with students as an adjunct professor at a local college. The hours are flexible and you’ll have the holidays off.
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About a quarter of Uber drivers are over age 50, with the vast majority citing flexibility as the reason for signing up. More than half of Uber drivers work 15 hours or less each week, and nearly two-thirds change the number of hours they work by more than 25 percent from one week to the next.
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A growing number of startups are popping up offering virtual assistant services, including booking travel, coordinating meetings and providing other administrative support. This job appeals to seniors ready to work from home and give up their commute. Get certified via the International Virtual Assistants Association, which can also help you find jobs.
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Tired of answering to someone else? Depending on your field, you may be able to go independent, working with your current company or others on a project basis. Before you officially retire, put out word that you’ll be consulting, and check out eLance to find potential leads.
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Retailers and restaurants regularly hire mystery shoppers to frequent their establishments and provide feedback on service and the environment. The gig is ideal for retirees looking for flexible work and often comes with perks like a shopping stipend or free meals. Agencies such as Secret Shopper can help you get started.
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Even if being a greeter at Wal-Mart’s not your thing, a retail job could be a good fit, especially if you like people and have knowledge of a specific retail category, such as sporting goods or clothing. This is a great way to earn extra money during the holidays, when many retailers hire additional seasonal employees.
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Working in retirement doesn’t have to mean less time for your hobbies. Instead, look for a way to combine your hobbies and some income. You can sell your crafts on Etsy, or give music or other kinds of skill-based lessons.
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Whether you’re watching your own grandchildren (an increasingly common occurrence among retirees) or someone else’s kids, babysitting can be a great gig for retirees who like kids.
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If you’re working more to keep busy than for financial reasons, becoming a volunteer can have rewards that go far beyond a paycheck. Last year, Americans over age 65 spent nearly twice as many hours volunteering as any other age group.
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