An encore career is a job that you start in later life. Perhaps after retirement, or as it nears. More people than ever are searching for the right encore career for them. The reasons for taking on new work at this time are varied.

Some people simply can’t stand the idea of retiring; they feel they’ve got more to give, and want a new challenge. They want to spend their time doing something that they enjoy, instead of sitting around waiting to get old.

For others, the decision to work into their retirement is financially motivated. Now more of us are buying homes later, or struggling to pay debts off long after the children have left home.

Unfortunately, this means many people simply cannot afford to retire when the time comes.

So, instead of sticking with the same job, they find something new.

For others still, it’s about staying healthy and alert. Many people find that once they retire, their physical and mental health quickly deteriorates. They spend more time alone, sat down, not being challenged. Continuing to work can mean that they live much longer, healthier and happier lives.

Often these people consider volunteer work, or a part-time position, only working a shift or two a week.  

But, choosing a new career can be difficult. You no longer want anything too stressful or demanding, but you want to find something that allows you to use your skills and experience. Here are some great ideas.

Consulting

Consulting is an excellent option if you’ve had a long and rewarding career in a specific sector. Many people are starting up on their own, and are only too happy to pay a consultant to help them get going quickly, avoiding pitfalls and costly mistakes. Consulting can also be fairly lucrative, so if you are still wondering how to fix your credit, it could be ideal.

Another huge advantage of consulting is that you could work freelance. Only working when you want to, taking on the clients that interest you, and only traveling as far as you wish. You set your own rules.

Teaching

Teaching is another fantastic choice for an encore career. Young people could gain a lot, not just from your knowledge, but also from your experience. And you’d know that you were giving something back and helping to shape the future. There are few careers more rewarding than teaching.

The only disadvantage of teaching is that if you aren’t already qualified, you may need to return to school. If this doesn’t appeal, you could seek work as a classroom assistant, or teaching older people in community centers or libraries.

Start Your Own Business

Starting your own business is incredibly exciting, and if you’ve paid off your mortgage, have no debts, and some savings, you could have a great chance of starting something successful straight away. If you’ve got some ideas for products and services you could offer, go for it. Using the knowledge and experience you’ve acquired over the course of your career to avoid the mistakes you’ve seen others make and do it well.

This post has been contributed by Ryan Gatt, it may contain affiliate links.