So, you’ve decided retirement isn’t for you. Or you’ve been “right-sized” out of a job. Now what?
Whether it’s for the money or to stay engaged and meet new people or learn something new, the good news is that there are a lot of resources for baby boomers and seniors ready to embark on finding a new career.
Check out these resources to get you started:
Encore Careers
When this term first started being used it referred primarily to volunteer activities. But the recession changed all that. An encore career refers to a point in time when you finish up work in one field and switch to something new –usually in the non-profit or social mission area.
One of the best sources on Encore careers is http://www.encore.org. It includes information and resources no matter whether you are at the beginning or middle of your search. There’s also a list of transition groups in different parts of the country to help you find local resources and people who share your stage of life.
Here’s a Business Week article featuring 16 Encore success stories if you are wondering what type of opportunities to explore.
You should also check out the resources at the career website What’s Next which includes resources, guides and links to career coaches.
Going Back to School
A growing number of community colleges are offering courses specifically geared to helping people 50+ retool for a new career. Here’s a map of community colleges with special programs.
If your local community college is not listed, call them and find out if they have any special programs. Your local senior center might also offer community college courses at a reduced rate (don’t shy away from the senior center because of its name – many of them have great resources).
You may also find special rates for people 60+ on classes and certificate programs at local colleges and universities.
With the prospect of increased longevity and increasing costs on such basics as health care, an encore career might be just the right way to energize yourself and your retirement account.
