Finding Nonprofit Careers in Tough Times

With unemployment soaring and hiring freezes in place at many organizations, it is heartening to know that many nonprofits are still recruiting experienced people. But, as Jeri Sadler, a longtime "rewiring" guru and Michael Watson, a nonprofit human services executive explain, competition for these positions is stiff, so you will need to be strategic and have a specific encore career in mind as you venture into the nonprofit world.  Read their article for valuable tips.

6 Tips for Starting a Business After Age 50

Starting a business is difficult at any age. While those planning to retire soon need to be particularly careful with their finances, Boomers' accumulated expertise and experience is a real asset in being successful. When an entrepreneur knows something about the industry, they are better able to leverage that knowledge and move towards their goal.

Click here for some tips.

Boomers Reinvent Themselves

“When you’re doing something you really love, it’s not really a job." This is the sentiment of a struggling real estate agent turned nature guide, who has turned her passion for the outdoors into a part-time business. Some boomers are taking the plunge by choice; others have been laid off or have to bolster sliding retirement funds. No matter how the change occurs, there are positive stories in re-invention.

What's a Good Job?

As people get older, work may still be essential as a source of a salary, benefits, and a sense of financial security. But, we also work for pride, self-esteem, social contact, and learning. Recent research and plain old common sense says that work can literally make us happier and healthier. This article talks about “good jobs” and the elements you might keep in mind during a job search to achieve that goal.

The Benefits of Working Longer

The paucity of available jobs has stirred up talk of a generational conflict: if older adults stay in the workforce, are they taking jobs away from the younger set? On the other hand, if the elders keep working, won't that help pay for future social security benefits for their children and grandchildren? In this Boston Globe article, Ellen Goodman takes a different tack. Why not use this economic downturn as an incentive for Boomers to begin encore careers that will support social change efforts and provide personal satisfaction. Read more.

When it is Time to Retire, You’ll Know

This personal account of a 70-year-old who went back to study business when her children were teens, focuses on the positives of staying in the work world and contributing in ways that are both valuable and personally satisfying. To read more, click here.

Should You Work During Retirement?