Time With Sands – Returning to Work After Retirement

I retired from my first act job two years ago, and now, because of financial pressures and a need to still contribute, I want to return to work. What would you recommend as the best job search strategies for a 62-year old retired professional?

– Dirk O.

First, reflect upon where you were two years ago and where you are now. What were you doing beforehand? And why did you stop working? What has changed in the last two years in your own development, and in your field and the general marketplace?

As importantly, consider what has remained constant in your life. Take an inventory of your passions and interests–and what is bringing you back to investigate working again. List your current strengths and weaknesses in light of your interests. Research ways you might boost some of your skills so that you are as current as possible. It is really important that you can walk into an interview confident that you are relevant to the company or program.

The second step is to connect, connect, connect with your old network of friends and colleagues if you have not already done so. Do not ask at first for a job. Just get a sense of how people are doing, their reflections on personal and professional life, and how they can help act as messengers to set you on your new path. Set up appointments for informational interviews to explore more about where you would fit in and where you need to grow and develop more in your field.

Once you have renewed and expanded your network and begun the informational interview process, doors will open in unexpected ways and places, and you will discover the keys to getting past the gatekeepers.