How to make extra retirement cash!

Want to supplement your Social Security income with a “second act” job you’ll love? Our experts share the top strategies for snagging a great gig!

1 Find your second career! Network through hobbies!

“One of the best ways to find a job you love is by trying new things— whether it’s taking a yoga class or visiting a community garden,” says retirement expert Catherine Collinson. “Once you zero in on something you like, chat up the instructors or workers there to build a network of contacts who can help point you in the right direction.”

Search the right sites!

“Retirementjobs.com is designed for job-seekers age 50 and older,” reveals Collinson. “It screens employers who post jobs and certifies them as ‘aging-friendly’ for reasons from shorter work hours to greater flexibility.” Another great site: “AARP’S Back to Work 50+ program at AARP.ORG. It has excellent resources available for people seeking employment.”

2 Ace your résumé! Highlight your “soft skills”!

The skills that set retirees apart? Soft skills! “Tout your experience with things like communication, teamwork and decision-making,” advises job pro Lauren Griffin, who helps place seniors in great gigs. “Despite young people often having a leg up in the digital arena, we’re seeing them struggle with these type of skills, so older workers actually have an advantage!”

Tap the right adjectives!

“When people write ‘seasoned’ on their résumé, it can sound the same as ‘outdated,’ and has become a bit of a cliché,” says career expert Marc Cenedella. “Instead, describe yourself as a ‘respected expert in my field,’ ‘goal-achieving’ or ‘ tested and proven.’ ”

3 Dream big! Sail the open seas!

Instead of pouring your life savings into a boat, you can sail in luxury— and get paid— working on a cruise ship! Just look for jobs on Retirementjobs.com like event coordinator, workshop leader or even a position as salesperson in a ship’s retail stores. “As a retiree, you have an advantage over the competition due to your years of experience, and you’ll be able to connect better with the typically older demographic that frequents many cruise lines,” says Cenedella. In exchange, you’ll get free room and board plus a salary— and a chance to cruise around full-time!

House sit—on an island!

Always dreamed of retiring in the tropics? Many owners of private island getaways seek full- and part-time caretakers to keep their homes in top condition while they’re away. Most jobs simply require that you make sure the house stays clean and deal with minor maintenance issues. Just search “caretaker positions” on Indeed.com.

4 Have fun! Travel and help others!

Love traveling and helping people? Combine the two by becoming an assistance companion who helps folks with their bags, medication and other needs. Sites like Flying Companions.com and Firstlight Homecare.com can connect you with travelers in need. In return, you’ll get free airfare wherever your client is headed, as well as a fee for

your services.

Help furry friends!

Become a pet sitter or doggie daycare operator! With sites like Rover.com or Care. com, you can create your own profile and set your own prices (most folks charge between $20-$30 per pet, per day).

Embrace nature!

Check out Cool Works (Cool Works.com) to find jobs at national parks, resorts and retreat centers doing anything from hosting campfire meet-and-greets to brushing horses!