It’s back to work they go: silver boomerangs

UNRETIREMENT is growing in popularity as older Australians boomerang back to the workforce.

Worries about retiring comfortably are common and the rising cost of retirement is prompting people to try to boost their funds.

Simon Bennett, principal consultant for Brisbane-based careers consultancy Glide, said the “growing trend” was spurred by financial need, but was daunting for retirees.

“Job searches when you’re older often take more courage than when in your 20s and 30s,” Mr Bennett said. “However, with careful planning, people can find a role that is both fulfilling and practical.”

Mr Bennett said it helped if candidates updated or expanded existing skills.

For example, administration skills could be built on through bookkeeper training such as studying for an entry-level Certificate IV credential.

All job seekers must be digitally literate and up-to-date with technological change, he said. Skill at using smartphones and tablets for email and wordprocessing is important.

Growth industries with strong opportunity for older Australians include customer service, aged care, childcare, house-sitting, pet-sitting and retail, Mr Bennett said.

He urged people to explore options including consultancy, mentoring young people, parttime, casual or voluntary work.

But think twice about targeting chains such as Bunnings and Coles, and local government organisations.

Major players with more vacancies attract more applicants, so try small businesses not beset by hundreds of like-minded seniors, Mr Bennett said.

And be open to taking a pay cut. Lower salary expectations could result in less stressful work, offering better work-life balance as well as greater fulfilment, he said.