The Editor’s Job Picks
By Bob Skladany
What are “Editor’s Job Picks” ?
The Research staff at RetirementJobs.com continuously scans employers’ job postings and the labor market for positions
suitable for age 50+ candidates. We realize that while the “ideal job” is in the eye of the job seeker, there are positions that are better suited to the employment and financial needs of more experienced workers. There is a wide diversity of jobs in a wide range of industries. What “Editor’s Picks” have in common is that they are popular among job seekers visiting RetirementJobs.com or they’re considered a good fit based on what age 50+ candidates have identified as important considerations. In addition, we highlight employers that are recognized by RetirementJobs.com as Age Friendly Certified Employers.
Competitive pay, availability of affordable healthcare benefits, work schedule flexibility, an opportunity to make a contribution, and a respectful and positive work environment are some of the top priorities of age 50+ workers. Each month, RetirementJobs.com will identify a group of “Editor’s Job Picks” – jobs that embody your priorities.
“Editor’s Job Picks”
- Cosmetic or Beauty Advisor - Retail stores have come to value age 50+ workers for your superior customer service skills, reliability, sincerity and communication skills. Within major department and specialty stores, there is a special breed of sales associate - The Beauty or Cosmetics Advisor. You have all seen these Advisors as you shop or walk through the cosmetic department. These very professional Advisors are exceptionally well trained to explain and demonstrate their cosmetic products to shoppers. Experience with cosmetics and beauty care product is highly valued. These Advisor jobs tend to be better paid than general retail sales associates and can earn commissions in addition to base pay. There are opportunities for advancement to product line and department management roles. Hours can be flexible with evening and weekend hours being routine. These are some of the more challenging jobs in retail sales but will allow you to make a good income. A few leading employers of Cosmetics and Beauty Advisors include Bloomingdales, Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillards, and Nordstroms.
- Business Consulting & Projects Manager – If you’re looking to continue your primary career in commerce, finance, technology the sciences and management, there are many opportunities to become a consultant or project manager in professional services organizations. These jobs often require advanced education and an extensive background in an industry or profession, but for workers age 50+ who are not ready to retire or want to return to their primary career area, the jobs are there. Pay can begin at $60,000 and more, and jobs can sometimes be arranged on a project or contract-basis for individuals seeking to have more free time. Employers may want you to serve as a mentor to younger colleagues and allow you flexible hours and schedules. Many professional service employers are local and regional but some of the leading national firms include Deloitte & Touche, Robert Half, H&R Block, KPMG, Booz Allen Hamilton, Ernst & Young, and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
- Franchise Owner - Many of you tell us you'd like to have full control of your own destiny. It's worth considering a franchise. A donut shop, home care, travel agency, or lawn care business of any interest? There are countless franchising opportunities. The good news is that the franchise sponsors provide professional support and services. The bad news is there are a lot of questionable franchising deals. Stick with a known name where you can meet individuals who have actually made a living from their franchise. Do plenty of research and be sure to involve an attorney before you make commitments. Owning your own business involves a serious investment of time, money and energy - it's not for everyone and the risks may be too great if you are concerned about your finances. Check out the RetirementJobs.com Franchise Center.
- U.S. Peace Corp Volunteer – You may know the Peace Corp from 1960 when the Senator John F. Kennedy challenged America’s youth to get involved with advancing peace and social wellbeing by working in developing countries. That was 47 years and 187,000 volunteers ago. The Peace Corp currently has almost 7,800 trainers and volunteers in 73 countries. In general, the volunteers continue to represent the best of American youth but this is changing. The Peace Corp is actively recruiting older volunteers who bring a literal lifetime of knowledge and experience to service around the world. We talk so much about being adventurous in the “third phase” of our lives – this is a real chance to take that adventure and make a real contribution to important people and causes. With the oldest volunteer being age 79, older individuals represent 5% of volunteers, and the Baby Boom generation will cause a steady increase in this percentage. The Peace Corp is actively and deliberately recruiting older volunteers. The greatest needs are in education, health, business development, environment, youth development and agriculture. If selected, you will receive appropriate language, cultural and technical training. On assignment, you are supported by Peace Corp staff and will receive comprehensive health care, a living cost allowance and an accumulated stipend when your assignment ends. You need not be alone on assignment – 7% of volunteers are married. There will be time for additional travel and exploration. Can you think of a more meaningful way to “give back” to society and have the adventure of your lifetime?
To learn more, phone 800-424-8580 or visit www.peacecorps.gov
Robert Skladany is Vice President of Research & Certification at RetirementJobs.com. He has focused his career on the issues of mature and retired workers and the particular value they bring to the workplace and to employers in search of stable, productive and positive employees. You can contact Bob at bob@retirementjobs.com or 781-890-5050 X 226.
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