How to Get Back Into the Workforce: Expert Tips to Find Your Next Job

Retirement is a well-earned point in life, but for some people, ceasing work entirely is not the ideal path. Whether you crave more structure in your daily life, want to keep busy with things you’re passionate about, are looking for some extra income or all of the above, you’re not alone in wanting a job after you’d already technically hung up your hat.

“These days it’s very common for people to come out of retirement to work again,” observes Maura Porcelli, Senior Director of the Senior Community Service Employment Program at the National Council on Aging.

Indeed, a recent T. Rowe Price study shows that nearly one in three Americans is “unretiring,” opting to return to work – even if it’s just part time.

“Some people realize the money they saved isn’t enough to cover their costs, while others discover that they got a lot of satisfaction from working.”

Fortunately, companies know that your many years of experience and unparalleled work ethic mean you have lots to offer. It’s why a new Transamerica Institute study shows that a whopping 71 percent of businesses employ folks 65 and over, making the list of potential employers much more fruitful than you might have thought!

Since it’s been a minute since your last job search, you probably want to update your job-hunting skills to get hired faster after a career break. And with Porcelli’s tips, it’s easy!

More benefits of continuing to work

woman giving a presentation — Luis Alvarez/Getty

Beyond your personal and professional desires, research finds that working also provides benefits across health and aging.

A comprehensive study looking at more than three decades of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Mature Women found that consistent work earlier in life predicts improved health and longevity over many years as women enter late life, and this relationship does not differ between women with positive and those with negative subjective work experiences.

“Our analyses show that women who worked consistently over a 20-year period in midlife reported fewer depressive symptoms and functional limitations over the following 16 years as they entered later life,” the study notes. “They also enjoyed longer lives over the next 25 years than their counterparts who did not work during this extended period.”

Shorten your resume

One strategy that hasn’t changed over the years: It’s vital to customize your résumé by including keywords from each job ad so it’s picked up by software that recruiters use. Where there has been a big shift: Résumé length.

“People of all ages have moved to a résumé format that only represents the last 10 years of professional experience because that’s what prospective employers are most interested in,” Porcelli says. “That being said, every person is a sum of their life’s experience. So, if you have work experience beyond 10 years ago that applies to a position, consider weaving that information into your résumé — perhaps in a section that summarizes skills.”

Think about it – holding a career full time with a variety of types of work can result in a lengthy CV. By trimming it back when you’re ready to enter the workforce again, you’ll increase your chances of success.

Burnish your cover letter

woman smiling typing on laptop — Westend61/Getty

Displaying your enthusiasm for the company you’re applying to is always key to a great cover letter. Also helpful? Mention how you spent your retirement years.

“Highlight how you’ve maintained or learned the skill set to do the job effectively starting on day one,” advises Porcelli.

Prep for the interview easily

No doubt you’ll hear typical interview questions, such as, “Why do you want to join our team?” But as an unretiree, you may hear another question: “Why didn’t you work for X span of time?”

“Employers do notice gaps on résumés, so you’ll likely be asked to explain it,” Porcelli says. But it’s nothing to be afraid of! “People leave the labor force at periods of their lives for myriad reasons — it’s not uncommon.”

Also smart: Keep your interview answers brief, she urges. “Attention spans these days are short.”

Pinpoint job openings

“Tell everyone you know you’re looking for a job,” encourages Porcelli. “The more people who know, the more likely they are to share an opening when they learn about one or suggest you apply at the company where they currently work.”

Need new digital skills or other training for the job you want? You can get it free! “Retirees are able to take classes at American Job Centers (CareerOneStop.org), community colleges and libraries.”

Click through for more job tips!