Much of what I write about here is geared towards people interested in doing something new and different during semi-retirement. But of course, not everyone wants to do a 180-degree change in their second-act career. Some people really love their jobs and would like to stay connected to their professions on a part-time basis after “retiring” from their full-time career.
If that sounds like you, here are nine ways to work on a more flexible basis during semi-retirement – while still using your professional expertise:
1. Talk to your employer about a flexible work schedule: Want to work for your current employer on a flexible basis after “retiring?” Ask to set-up a meeting to discuss options (you never know until you ask). It might be possible to downshift into a part-time or seasonal schedule, work as a consultant, freelance or be “on-call” as an in-house temp.
RESOURCE: For tips on how to discuss and secure flexible work options, see the excellent guides and articles on workoptions.com.
2. Work for a competitor on a flexible basis: If your employer is unable or unwilling to offer you work on a flexible basis, take your skills to a competitor. Other companies and organizations in your field might be delighted to hire you on a flexible basis.
RESOURCE: The best way to find flexible opportunities is through networking. In addition to networking via sites like LinkedIn, take advantage of networking events offered through industry-related meetings and conferences.
3. Transfer your skills to the non-profit arena: While nonprofits depend heavily on volunteers, most have at least a few paid staff positions. In addition to charitable organizations, you might be able to find work at educational institutions, industry associations and local government agencies.
RESOURCE: If you’re interested in exploring nonprofit options, be sure to check out my nonprofit resource list.
4. Temp as an “Interim Executive:” Life as an interim executive gives you the opportunity to work on interesting assignments, earn a professional salary and participate in high-level projects. It’s a great option if you still crave the prestige and pace of the executive life, but also want the flexibility to enjoy time off in between assignments.
5. Consult: Working as a consultant allows you to capitalize on your work experiences, contacts, and expertise, while enjoying the benefits of being your own boss. Many new consultants start by consulting to their former employer on a project-by-project basis.
RESOURCE: Alan Weiss has a number of outstanding books about consulting.
6. Coach: Enjoy mentoring and teaching people in your industry? Consider becoming a coach. One of the great appeals of coaching as a semi-retirement career is the lifestyle it allows: you can set your own hours, work from anywhere and enjoy the satisfaction of helping to mentor people in your profession.
RESOURCE: There are numerous coach training programs. You can search for a suitable match online via the International Coach Federation.
7. Speak: There are many different venues where you might be able to share your expertise as a paid speaker including trade shows, business retreats, industry conferences and company sponsored events.
RESOURCE: The National Speakers Association has a number of helpful resources for budding speakers.
8. Teach: You might want to consider sharing your expertise as a classroom teacher or adjunct professor. While adjuncts don’t typically earn a lot, working on a college campus can be a very rewarding and enjoyable way to experience working during retirement.
RESOURCE: The Chronicle of Higher Education is the premier site for information about jobs in the university world.
9. Online Trainer: Many entrepreneurs are generating significant income by creating their own online training programs, formatted as videos, webinars, and multisession “e-universities.”
RESOURCE: Sites like Teachable.com make it relatively easy to create and market your own online courses.