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Career Q&A: Finding fun work in retirement

 
Published Oct. 21, 2016

Q: Like many baby boomers, I plan to continue working after I retire. However, I'd like to do something completely different. For example, I recently met a retired executive who found a job working for a boat dealership. He delivers new boats to their owners and demonstrates all the features.

Although starting over will undoubtedly be difficult, I'm very energetic and have a lot of useful experience. I'm also prepared to take a significant pay cut. My problem is that I don't know how to convey that in a job application. How can I convince potential employers that I'd be an asset to their business?

A: With compensation being less important, you're now in the enviable position of doing work for fun. Therefore, the first step is to determine what type of work you find appealing. Start by making a list of your interests and hobbies and then brainstorming related employment possibilities.

Next, develop a plan for learning about jobs in your desired field. For example, your friend might have done research by attending boat shows, visiting dealerships or chatting with marina employees. Eventually, the people you meet along the way will become part of your job search network.

With a radical career change, networking will be your most valuable tool. Randomly submitting applications won't be helpful because your background has no apparent connection to the jobs you want. A personal conversation allows you to convey your character, motivation and desire to learn.

Since your ultimate goal is to get hired, be prepared to provide a concise career summary, highlighting relevant skills and experience. If it's been awhile since you looked for work, take time to refresh your interviewing skills. And since this is part of your retirement, remember to relax and enjoy the process.

Separate personal and professional life

Q: A vendor who does business with our company keeps trying to be my friend. "Karen" frequently invites me to have lunch, join her for happy hour or attend various social events. She texts me at random times to ask if she can drop by to say hello. Apparently, she just wants to be my pal.

I've got plenty of friends and a very busy job, so I have no desire to start hanging out with Karen. Although I still want to use her as a vendor, this constant intrusion into my life has become quite irritating. How can I get Karen to back off without hurting her feelings?

A: To discourage this unwanted attention, you'll have to establish a definite boundary between your personal and professional life. But first you must decide exactly what sort of relationship you want with Karen.

Is an occasional lunch acceptable or do you prefer to see her only in business meetings? Would you like to eliminate all drop-in visits or just reduce their frequency? Once you've defined your desired level of interaction, then you need to clearly draw that line.

When Karen sends a "drop-by" text, you can say you're busy or simply not reply. If she shows up unannounced, pleasantly explain that you're swamped with work. And when she issues social invitations, you must politely, but directly, declare them off limits.

If you're open to having coffee or lunch, attach those events to a business visit. As long as you treat her like a valued work colleague, you'll have met your professional obligations.