Southwest Florida (SWFL) is a haven for retirees, but for those who find retirement a little too quiet, the thriving local economy offers a wealth of opportunities to stay engaged, earn extra income, and connect with the community. From Sarasota to Naples and Fort Myers, your decades of experience are a valuable asset in the Sunshine State.
Here is a roadmap for the newly retired professional looking to find a fulfilling “encore career” in Southwest Florida.
1. Re-Evaluating Your Career Goals
The first step in a retiree job search is defining what you want your new work life to look like. It’s likely very different from your full-time career.
- Focus on Flexibility: Do you want just a few hours a week for “play money,” or a more substantial part-time schedule? Prioritize roles that offer flexible scheduling to preserve your new retirement lifestyle.
- Identify Your “Soft” Skills: Your value isn’t just in your previous title. Companies in SWFL are looking for soft skills you’ve mastered: reliability, maturity, leadership, customer service, and a strong work ethic. Highlight these in your resume and interviews.
- Explore New Interests: Use this time to work in a field you always loved but never pursued. Hospitality, tourism, and non-profits often welcome enthusiastic, mature workers.
2. Industries That Are Eager to Hire Retirees
Southwest Florida’s demographics and key industries make certain sectors prime ground for older workers.
Healthcare and Senior Services
Given the high population of seniors, the need for empathetic and trustworthy workers in this sector is constant.
- Part-time Caregiving/Companionship: Roles with companies like Seniors Helping Seniors or local home health agencies often offer extremely flexible hours and a rewarding opportunity to help others.1
- Assisted Living/Retirement Communities: Communities in Naples, Sarasota, and Fort Myers frequently hire for part-time roles in administration, dining services, resident activities, and front-desk reception.
Hospitality and Tourism
As a major destination, SWFL’s visitor economy needs seasonal and year-round support.
- Retail and Boutique Sales: Work at a gallery, gift shop, or boutique on a flexible schedule.
- Concierge or Guest Services: Hotels and resorts value polished, professional retirees to manage their front desk or act as guest relations coordinators.
- Golf Course or Marina Staff: Positions as a starter, ranger, or pro shop attendant often come with the perk of working outdoors in a pleasant environment.
Professional and Specialized Roles
If you want to keep your professional skills sharp, look for high-level, project-based work.
- Consulting and Project Management: Leverage your decades of expertise by consulting with small businesses or non-profits on a contract basis.
- Administrative/Office Support: Many small to mid-sized businesses need experienced professionals for part-time bookkeeping, executive assistant, or human resources roles, especially during busy season.
3. Top Job Search Strategies for the Mature Worker
Your job search process will be different from that of a younger job seeker—and that’s a strength.
| Strategy | Key Action in SWFL |
| Utilize Specialized Resources | Check out Employ Florida Silver Edition and AARP’s Back to Work program for resources geared specifically toward workers aged 50 and over. |
| Connect Locally | Contact CareerSource Southwest Florida (serving Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades, and Hendry counties). They offer resources and workshops tailored to mature job seekers. |
| Network, Network, Network | Your existing network is gold. Join local chambers of commerce, rotary clubs, or professional association chapters. Many jobs are found through personal referrals in SWFL. |
| Keep Your Resume Fresh | Focus on your most recent and relevant experience. Omit dates that draw attention to your age and highlight accomplishments rather than responsibilities. Showcase your comfort with modern technology. |
| Attend Job Fairs | Look for general job fairs in Fort Myers or Naples, as well as specific senior or mature worker job fairs hosted by local organizations like senior services or community colleges. |
4. Embracing the Encore Career Mindset
Retirement is no longer an all-or-nothing proposition. Finding a job in Southwest Florida is about more than just a paycheck; it’s about maintaining purpose, social connection, and intellectual stimulation.
By focusing on flexible opportunities in sectors that value your experience, and by actively engaging with local resources, you can smoothly transition into the next, most rewarding chapter of your professional life in the Florida sunshine.
