5 Reasons Older Workers Should Consider Career Training
When most people think about career training, they think of young workers, perhaps even those just starting out on a career path. But older workers do well to consider whether they should also pursue career training even as their careers are in the midpoint or even later. Why? Here are a few of the best reasons.
1. Boost Post-Retirement Income
More and more Americans are choosing semi-retirement instead of full retirement. Semi-retirement means that you reduce your work schedule but still earn an income in the early years of retirement. However, finding the right post-retirement gig isn't always easy. You might want to update skills, learn new skills, or even find an entirely new line of work that lends itself to part-time work.
2. Revive a Flagging Career
Has your career — and growth in income — reached a plateau? The later working years are critical for most people saving for retirement because they are usually the years in which a person earns (and can therefore contribute) the most. If your career and earning power is no longer trending upward, now is the time to act in order to improve it.
3. Avoid Burnout
Many workers have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing, job burnout. Whether it's a high stress job, unappealing hours, long overtime, or a demanding environment, job burnout puts your mental and financial health at risk. Before you do anything rash to cure your burnout, consider the value of learning to do a job you enjoy more or find a new passion in your current field through job training.
4. Stay Relevant to Jobs
Older workers face more risks when it comes to being laid off or having to find a new job. If you've been in the same position or industry for many years, you may not have the skills employers need and want. Develop current skills, update old skills, and find out what employers are looking for by using career training to keep yourself a valuable asset during a time when you need financial stability the most.
5. Stimulate Your Own Growth
Education isn't just about the tangible career benefits it offers. It's also about keeping yourself sharp and interested in the world around you. Combat any stagnation as you age by challenging yourself to learn new things, adopt new technology, and maintain your creative side.
Where to Start
Could your career or you as a person benefit from help in any of these areas? If so, start by learning more about career training programs offered in your area or industry. No matter what motivates you, this move could be a great way to protect yourself and find new enthusiasm for working.