Encore Careers for Retiring Baby Boomers: There is life after retirement

The generation of aging hipsters, the so-called “Pepsi” generation or those who experienced John F. Kennedy’s regime, is facing the period of retirement.  This generation is famously known as the baby boomer generation because of the "explosion" of births when American soldiers returned home after the Second World War.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 76 million people comprise the baby boomer generation, making it the largest demographic and working group in the country today.  Pioneers of different industries and careers are baby boomers.  Who doesn’t know boomers like Steve Jobs, Steven Spielberg, Al Gore, Bill Clinton, and Supreme Chief Justice John Roberts?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics expects that the number of boomer retirees will reach 22 million this year from 1998. Some fear their mass retirement will leave a huge gap in the U.S. workforce.  But a survey conducted by the MetLife Foundation/Civic Ventures “Encore Career Survey” appears to prove them wrong: The baby boomer generation is not going anywhere. 

According to the survey, a majority of the baby boomer generation are considering a second job even after they reach retirement.   Among the respondents with ages 44 to 70, 6 percent to 9.5 percent (or 5.3 to 8.4 million) are most likely to pursue “encore careers” or their second careers.

The survey defined encore careers as jobs that both provide income and meaning.  Examples of encore careers are jobs in education, health care, government and nonprofit organizations. 

Marc Freedman, CEO of Civic Ventures, was surprised with the results of his company’s survey.  He observed that the boomers respond well to the issues of labor shortage in various careers.

Such a transition by baby boomers to encore careers at the second or even third half of their working years is admirable, and is ultimately beneficial to the country. Recognition should be given to these retired but ever hardworking baby boomers.

If you’re a baby boomer who’s about to retire, there’s still a lot in store for you with encore careers. These careers will give you a chance to continue enjoying employment security and benefits, as well as social and personal fulfillment.