An advantage for retirees
One overlooked advantage that retirees can offer prospective employers is a willingness to work odd hours–early mornings, or late evenings or at other times perceived as undesirable by most other workers. Or, on short notice, to fill in for employees who are on vacation or sick.
This flexibility can give an older worker a distinct edge when applying for a job and help overcome age discrimination, which we all know exists, but is difficult to prove.
One word of caution: some stores now require employees to be “on call” even when they are not actually scheduled for work. If you don’t mind being expected to drop everything and rush off to a job on short notice, this might be okay for you. Not everyone wants to commit to this “on call” system. Better to find an odd-hours job, if you ask me.
Fly-by-night is a good thing
One woman, an empty-nester in her mid-50s, decided to retire from her career as a stock broker. She wanted to travel and managed to land a job as an airline reservations clerk working from 5 p.m. to midnight–the hours that most people with families want to be at home.
While the pay was not great, for her it was ideal, because it gave her all day to do what she pleased. And the travel benefits have been terrific.
An early cuppa java job for 2 older workers
At least two mature women in our neighborhood landed jobs opening two separate Starbucks at 5:30 a.m. The company knows it can rely on each woman to be there on time every day. It is easier to rise and shine early as we grow older–a fact we all know.
A few hours later, after the morning rush is over, both women are free to go on about the lives. Someone else takes over as manager. Starbucks, by the way, has a reputation for being an excellent employer of people of all ages with benefits available to even part time baristas.
So be sure to mention your “Odd Hours” advantage to prospective employers. Do not wait for them to ask.
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