Once you’ve left the workplace for the final time, you may find yourself wondering what’s next. Whether you’d like to supplement your income, want to make your current interests profitable or are simply a snowbird looking for a job you can do from just about anywhere, freelance writing may be a very attractive option for older adults.
Why choose freelancing?
Sometimes without even realizing it, you have been picking up skills throughout your working life. Freelancing provides a way to put them to work at a time and place that is convenient for you. There are both industry specific and generalized jobs, and more companies are offering perks such as insurance and other benefits than ever before.
What sorts of opportunities are out there?
Now that your interest’s been piqued, you may be curious about what sorts of opportunities are actually out there. There are options for almost any professional background or interest, and those that specialize in a niche area may be especially lucrative.
Put your “pen” to work for you
More companies are discovering the benefits of outsourcing their writing work, and the opportunities in the field are rapidly expanding. Many companies are looking for native English writers, and if you are also functionally literate in another language, you may find that the options open to you are quite extensive.
Those who are detail oriented and take pride in helping others produce top quality work, may find freelance writing to be a good fit. You’ll need to be an expert in grammar and spelling.
Calling all computer geeks!
If you’re walking away from a job in the high-tech sector, that doesn’t mean your career has to end. Programming and web development are growing fields, and freelancers can choose their working hours, location and which tasks they wish to take on.
Share your talents by becoming a consultant
This may be a good fit for the retired professional who has skills they wish to share. As with other freelancing options, it offers the ability to choose one’s own hours and the amount of work they wish to take on.
Terrific tutors
If you’re a parent, you may well remember your kid’s school days and the market that exists for tutors. Nowadays, this often takes place online, making it an attractive option for older adults who have knowledge to share.
Project managers are in demand
If you have a background in project management, it can be easier than you might think to make the transition to the online world. This is also true when it comes to sales and marketing. Some ambitious individuals even choose to start a part time business, and their contact list may be a valuable resource when getting started.
Are you a number cruncher?
If accounting and finance are up your street, then the freelancing world may be very attractive. You can choose your own clientele, whether that means working with small home-based companies, large enterprises or anything between.
Are you a top translator?
In today’s global marketplace, translators are in high demand. If you’re fluent in more than one language, this could be a niche career that you really enjoy.
Do good work for others
If you’ve always wanted to help others, now could be the time to lend a hand with a charity or not for profit. These organizations may find freelancers to be a good fit, as they can hire them for a specific task without having to add them to the permanent payroll. If you enjoy helping others, this may be a way for you to do so and get paid for doing it.
Turn trash into treasure
If thrifting is your thing, you can easily turn your hobby into extra retirement income. Sites like Etsy provide a platform where you can create an online store to sell your thrifty funds, and with some luck and hard work, you may be able to make several hundred dollars or more a month.
Considerations to keep in mind
Just as with any other job, if you work as a freelancer, even if you’re retired, you will still have to track your income and pay applicable taxes. If you earn over $30,000, you will need to register for a HST/GST number. Keep track of your expenses, save your receipts and other documentation, and you will have to decide if you want to make contributions to Unemployment Insurance. CPP contributions will be mandatory if you’re under 70.
Put your skills and knowledge to work today
Many consider Canada’s older adults to be a valuable resource. Freelancing provides a way for you to keep mentally active and get paid to do work you enjoy. At Words of Worth, we are always on the lookout for new talent, so get in touch with us to get started writing from home today.