The traditional retirement age is 66 years old; nonetheless, data is increasingly showing that that older workers are shunning conventional practices and pursuing lifelong careers.
In fact, the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs reported that 82 percent of working American professionals over the age of 50 agree that they will likely work for pay in retirement.
To emphasize, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that older workers—aged 55 and older—were working or actively looking for work in 2014. And this number is growing! The labor force is projected to grow to a substantial 164 million workers by 2024. For reference, approximately 41 million older workers will make up this population.
With this in mind, the possibilities for employment at 50 are abundant. Brush up your job search skills and learn about the employment opportunities available to older workers over 50 years old.
In this guide, we will discuss:
How to Get Jobs for People Over 50: The Complete Guide
The job market has changed dramatically in the past few decades! For this reason, there is often a learning curve that many older workers must overcome to progress their careers. In this section, we discuss what to do when you lose your job at 50, and how to successfully make a career change.
What Do You Do When You Lose Your Job at 50?
Whether it is an impromptu mass layoff or otherwise, losing your job at 50 can feel like a devastating blow! It begs the question, “What do you do when you lose your job at 50?’ Follow these three quick tips to determine the next stage in your career.
- Refresh Your Resume. Start anew with a resume refresh that takes into account all of your relevant experience. There’s a vast wealth of knowledge about resume tips for older workers. It is advised that you keep to the basics: include only relevant experience, omit graduation dates from education, and highlight the unique advantage that your years of experience have given you.
- Connect with Professional Network. It’s time to reconnect with your professional network. Your network is a valuable tool to utilize when searching for your next position. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook groups to find previous mentors, and coworkers.
- Research Employment Outlook. Choose a career with a lasting employment outlook. Research occupation outlook to find a career with high potential for growth.
Career change over 50
Deciding to make a career change over 50 is an empowering decision. With years—decades even—of experience, you possess a wide range of invaluable skills. Surprisingly, 80% of people age 45-plus consider changing careers, but only 6% do. Make the jump with these top tips for older workers.
- Conduct a Self Assessment. Career aspirations evolve with experience and knowledge. Take your time to evaluate your personal and professional goals to gain a better understanding of what opportunities you should pursue.
- Explore Other Occupations. Inevitably, there are professions today that didn’t exist five to ten years ago like cybersecurity and social media management. If you’re adventurous or need a change of pace, consider exploring a new occupation that challenges you to think outside of the box.
- Consider a Returnship. To follow the previous tip, consider a returnship for older workers. Returnships are a valuable experience for professionals over 50 exploring the new opportunities in the workforce.
Jobs for Older Workers
Jobs for Women Over 50
Job Positions for Women Over 50
Female participation in the workforce is on the rise! Likewise, female unemployment has dropped to record lows in previous years. In fact, The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that female unemployment reached as low as 3.4% in April 2019.
Even more, in the previous three decades, women aged 55 and older have overwhelmingly increased.
With this said, there are numerous positions fit for women over 50 in the workplace. Continue reading to learn about opportune job positions and the best companies for women in the workplace.
Real Estate Agent
The career path to becoming a real estate agent is a relatively smooth transition. In general, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a real estate training course, and acquire a real estate license in your state. In addition, budding real estate agents will be happy to hear that the market is growing. According to BLS, the profession is projected to grow three percent between 2018 and 2028.
Interpreter
Put your communication skills to the test, and start a career as an interpreter. Typically, interpreters do have a Bachelor’s degree at least. Nonetheless, a native-level proficiency in English and at least one other language is needed. Even more, the job outlook for interpreters is promising! The BLS projects that the profession will grow 19 percent between 2018 and 2028.
Instructor
The field of education has a plethora of opportunities for women over 50. For professionals with a background in teaching, primary, secondary, and special education teachers are in high demand. In addition, individuals with specialized knowledge can consider tutoring or instructing specialty classes at universities, rec centers, or otherwise.
Healthcare Worker
The job outlook for professionals in the healthcare sector is bright! Individuals—specifically registered nurses (RN)—can expect a 12 percent growth rate from 2018 to 2028. In addition, there are great options for those who do not have a background in medicine. For example, radiologic technologists, medical sonographers, and respiratory or physical therapists are all options that require only an associate’s degree.
Administration Assistant
The administration sector is an overarching profession that encompasses a variety of positions. To elaborate, positions in the administration and clerical field include receptionist, office managers, and secretaries.
Jobs for Men Over 50
Women aren’t the only ones looking for jobs for people over 50! Many men make the decision to stay in the workforce well after 50.
As a matter of fact, the unemployment rate for older men was as low as 2.3% in 2019.
So, if you’re thinking about extending your career, you are in good company. Keep reading to learn about a few popular jobs for men over 50.
Consultant
Many times working professionals love their careers but need a change of scenery to keep the job interesting. Consider leveraging your industry expertise by consulting individuals, nonprofits, small businesses, and large corporations! Often, organizations prefer this model because they are able to reap the benefits of an experienced professional without hiring a full-time employee.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers are a vital component of any company. They are responsible for a company’s accounts, and data entry. While this position does not require a degree, it is beneficial to have a relevant bookkeeper certificate or equivalent experience. In addition, applicants need sharp attention to detail and patience to complete repetitive tasks.
Freelance Writer
Do you want to stay active in the job market, but aren’t interested in keeping your day job? Many professionals take semi-retirement to stay active and social in the job market. Freelance writing is a great option for those who want to set their own work hours and work at leisure. In addition, can allow professionals to take up work writing about specialty topics that they are familiar with.
Landscape Designer
Landscape designers, or landscape architects, are increasingly becoming a coveted position. Projects are wide-reaching from parking lot design to mass eco-friendly renovations that use less water. The job growth for landscape designers is four percent from 2019 to 2028.
Personal Financial Advisor
Personal financial advisors are in high demand year-round for individuals who need help deciphering their financial situation. Knowledgable finance personnel can leverage their experience to find an exceptional company or start their own practice.
Jobs for People Over 50 Without a Degree
Whether you’re looking for a fun pass time to stay social or want a little extra income to come in on the side, check out these fun and creative jobs for people over 50 without a degree.
- Mentor
- Customer Service Representative
- Tour Guide
- Receptionist
- Cruise Ship Worker
- Nanny
- Event Planner
- Salesperson
- Library Assistant
- Fitness Instructor
- Nonprofit Fundraiser
- Transcriber
- Career Coach
- Tutor
- Virtual Assistant
- Patient Advocate
- Tax Preparer
- Graphic Artist
- Photographer
- Entrepreneur
Best Companies for Professionals Over 50
Age discrimination isn’t a new phenomenon, and it has driven a large proportion of seasoned individuals to retirement. In turn, numerous companies that recognize the value that older workers bring to the workplace. Here are a few of the many best companies with jobs for people over 50.
Morgan Stanley
Launch your career in the finance industry with Morgan Stanley’s returnship, Return to Work. Return to Work is a multi-faceted program that provides seasoned professionals with the opportunity to work in a number of business areas including, human resources, risk management, and investment banking. In addition, participants placement is wide-ranging with office locations in Hong Kong, Mumbai, Budapest, and more.
General Motors
General Motor’s Take 2 program is another premier returnship for older workers returning to the workplace. Take 2 is a 12-week training program that teaches participants new skills and prepares them for the changing workforce. Even more, 86 percent of graduating participants are offered full-time employment at the completion of the program!
Being a professional over 50 can be stressful! Nevertheless, it is an attainable goal with the appropriate knowledge and resources. BestCompaniesAZ is equipped with a wide variety of resources to help you continue onto the next stage of your career! Sign up for the BestCompaniesAZ newsletter to receive job search advice straight in your inbox.
