Re-entering Work: A Retiree's Guide to Getting Hired

For many of us, retirement might have been the end goal after hustling and working through most of adulthood. We likely envisioned that when the time comes, we’d have a nice little nest egg and the luxury of time to relax as life slows down.

Even so, there are perhaps some aspects to gainful employment that a retiree would miss. These include routine schedules, a sense of purpose and a stable income stream, as well as colleagues you might look forward to seeing regularly.

As it turns out, working through your golden years is a trajectory as good as any, and can prove fulfilling with a career that inspires and challenges you.

If you’re a retiree looking to re-enter the workforce in Singapore, here is an easy guide to help facilitate a smooth transition from retiree to new hire.

Did you know that mature workers can get jobs with government support on MyCareersFuture? Browse jobs today.

Use past experiences to shape your future

Having worked for years prior to your retirement, you probably know what aspects of a job will provide you with a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. This is a good starting point when looking for a job.

Here are some questions you may wish to ponder over:

Do you want to explore something new, or something familiar? Are you open to upskilling or reskilling for a different vocation?
What do you enjoy about employment — is it a vibrant work environment, cushy employment benefits, or a stimulating creative outlet? What are some new areas that you are keen to develop: Technical skills, teamwork, or leadership qualities?

Establishing these parameters can frame your overall career outlook and help you focus during your job search.

To find jobs that best align with your desired career goals, use the filters provided on the job portal, MyCareersFuture. For example, you can indicate if you’re open to reskilling and changing occupations. This will help you find suitable listings from employers that are ready to support your career switch aspirations.

If you are in touch with former colleagues or networks, you may also reach out to enquire about new openings at their respective companies. You never know if an exciting new opportunity might just fall into your lap!

Stay informed and secure. Navigate your job search confidently with MyCareersFuture.

Email template: Reaching out to professional connections

The following is an email template you could use to reach out to your professional connections and enquire about openings:

Dear [name],

Hope you have been well. I am reaching out to share an exciting update: I am coming out of retirement, and enthusiastic about returning to full-time work.

I am exploring roles in [your field/area] and immediately thought of you. If you know of any companies hiring or teams that might benefit from someone with [number of years] years of experience in [mention key skills], I would be appreciative if you could connect me.

Thank you in advance for your time and guidance!

Take stock of your skills and gaps

The world has been rapidly evolving in recent years with the advent of new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Even if you are a seasoned professional, it would be beneficial to refresh your knowledge of what your industry has been up to since you’ve been away.

Spend some time researching the latest developments, trends, and insights on industry happenings through news articles, blogs, and guides, such as those on CareersCompass by MyCareersFuture. Read about the latest updates on the following industries:

Furthermore, you can also enrol in relevant SkillsFuture courses to improve your competencies and better prepare yourself to step back into the workforce.

To give you an added boost, the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) offers subsidies — up to 90% for SSG-supported courses and at least 90% for MOE-subsidised courses — to make training more affordable for Singapore Citizens aged 40 and above.

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Embrace the joys of learning

Truth is, the first step is always going to be hardest – whether it’s taking up a new course, sending out your first job application, or showing up for the first day at a new job.

If you encounter setbacks or difficulties along the way, know that it’s all part of the process, and that it takes time to chart meaningful milestones. Frame your situation as lessons and with that, embrace the ways in which you could learn and grow from it.

For example, if you managed to score a job interview but were subsequently rejected for the position, politely request feedback on what needs to be improved. You’ll gain a valued employer perspective on where you might have fallen short relative to other prospective hires.

Email template: Following up on interview feedback

Here is an email template you could use:

“Dear [Recruiter/Hiring Manager name],

Thank you for the update. I understand and respect the decision not to move forward with my application. I am grateful for the opportunity to interview with [company name].

As a personal commitment to my own self-development, it would be beneficial if you could share feedback or pointers on how I could improve my application and interview skills for future opportunities.”

Remember to also thank the interviewer for their time and wish them well. If you still have a genuine interest in joining the team, you may also wish to make a note that you would like to be considered for other opportunities, if they were to become available.

Should you require additional support in your career search, the following resources can be useful avenues to make the journey a little easier:

Career coaching: Get personalised guidance from coaches who will help uncover your career goals, preferences and motivations to chart your professional path ahead.
Volunteer Career Advisors: Speak to industry veterans who can offer sector-and occupation-specific career advice, empowering you to make more informed decisions in your career journey.
CareersHorizon and Career fairs: Attend in-person and virtual industry-relevant career fairs or job interviews to hear from and network with fellow professionals, as well as keep up to date with latest industry developments and opportunities.
CareersFinder: Find personalised career and upskilling recommendations by identifying your skills. Receive recommendations on courses, career pathways and relevant schemes to guide you on your next steps

These support measures are designed for jobseekers in Singapore to enable them to put their best foot forward as they go about their career search.

Remember: Growth can often feel uncomfortable and daunting, but that’s how you know you’re levelling up. Give yourself ample time and space to step into this exciting new chapter with confidence and enthusiasm for what’s to come — all the best!

Stay updated with the latest trends, job market shifts and career health advice from WSG.