An increasing number of retirees are looking to return to the workplace to supplement their pensions and reconnect with careers that they loved.

The new world of flexible working has never made it easier to choose when, where and how often you work.

If you have previously been a contractor or want to give it a go following a career in regular employment, what do you need to consider:

Changing job requirements

If you have been out of work for some time, it is important that the roles you are applying for align with your needs and skills.

Some jobs may require you to be up to speed on new standards or have different qualifications.

This can even be the case if you have done the job previously, as professional bodies and industries constantly update their policies.

If the role involves technology or certain types of software, you may also need to brush up on new programmes and processes.

If you have considerable experience in a certain field, but do not meet all of the requirements, some businesses may be willing to accommodate any needs that you have.

Costs of work

Although going to work is primarily about getting paid, many roles also incur costs. This can range from investment in new equipment or training to everyday costs, such as commuting, or if you work from home, your electricity and gas.

With the price of everything going up, you really do need to consider whether the fees you charge merit the costs you will encounter.

If you only end up slightly better off, it may not be worth the expense and effort in some cases.

However, this will rarely be the case in most roles, and returning to work could really boost your income during these challenging times and support a higher standard of living during your retirement.

Get connected

If you only recently retired, you may still be quite active on platforms like LinkedIn or have existing connections and contacts that you can rely on to secure new work.

However, if you have been out of work a little longer then you may need to refresh your online profile and build new connections within your industry.

People retire, move on and, more frequently, change the industries they work within. The pandemic saw a huge shake up to where and how people worked, so you can’t assume that your old contacts will still be around.

That is why it is important to put yourself out there and build relationships with agencies and potential engagers of your services.

How much and for how long are you willing to work?

If the return to work is not out of necessity, and you just want a little bit of additional income, you may need to think about how long and for how many hours each week you want to work.

While contracting does offer greater flexibility, there will still be certain expectations within each role and a certain amount of work that will need completing.

If you have got used to the extra free time in retirement, you need to consider the impact that returning to work will have on your life.

Nevertheless, freelancing still gives you greater freedom to decide how often and for how long you work.

Enjoy it

If you have retired and find yourself milling around the house or you miss the busy days of going to work and daily interaction with colleagues, then the return to work can be really enjoyable.

What’s more, you are likely to be in a position where you can choose contracts that are appealing to you, with less concern about how much they pay.

Speak to us

If you are genuinely considering a return to work then we are here and ready to help you with all your tax and accounting requirements, so get in touch if you need support.