How to get a job when I'm a retired 65-year-old schoolteacher?

September 14, 2009 7:08 PM

I'm 65 years old in Toronto. How can I get a job?

I taught school (elementary and high school English) for 32 years. Retired 10 years ago. I have a Master of Library Science and worked as a school librarian. Have worked (in the past 10 years - all short term) as a courier, a business researcher for a tax firm, a retail sales person, and a public librarian. Have very little self confidence, especially with the economy in the tank.
Any practical suggestions or tips? Any government programs?

The "Working through the golden years: jobs for seniors" thread is 2 years old. Any new insights? Thanks.

posted by feelinggood to work & money (6 comments total)

Why not go back to teaching? Maybe at a community college?
posted by notsnot at 7:16 PM on September 14

What about providing tutoring services? Either through a company like Sylvan Learning, or on your own? Maybe looking into ESL?
posted by purlgurly at 7:43 PM on September 14

Hey, I'm looking for tutoring jobs myself right now. This may be too basic to say, but in case you're not already checking there, this section of craigslist has dozens of positions advertised daily.
posted by skwt at 7:59 PM on September 14

If the Canadian system is anything like the American system, community colleges like notsnot suggested may be perfect.

Here, they're two year colleges which are relatively basic, a bit like trade school for desk jobs. Your qualifications are perfect. If you're willing to accept an adjunct position (again assuming similarities between Canadian and American systems), you're looking at a relative pittance of a salary, but it makes finding work even easier. Honestly, if you still enjoy teaching, you could probably net an adjunct position at a 4 year college.

Suggestions from before such as bookkeeping remain valid, if you're proficient with computer software. If your typing skills are still up to par, data entry is possible too, especially medical transcription.

Tutoring can work, but there's some caveats in doing it on your own. Don't take checks, and insist on weekly pay. Most people won't try to cheat you, but a even an honest bounced check can be a serious pain. Working with an established company is much more reliable, regardless of the cut they take.
posted by Saydur at 9:18 PM on September 14 [1 favorite]

Toronto has an 11% unemployment rate now. I'd suggest that anybody seeking a job there move away.
posted by ethnomethodologist at 9:26 PM on September 14

In Toronto, you can call 211 or have a look at 211 Toronto for information about employment services and programmes near you. The employment department at Humber College (not just for students) runs a 3-week program for workers who are 40+. The Centre for Education & Training also runs a couple programs: Sucessful Transitions is a 3-week program for 40+ jobseekers run near the Jane subway station, and they also run the Experienced Workers Program in Peel.

The Toronto Public Library also has a collection of links for older workers here.

You may also want to visit an Employment Resource Centre - there are quite a few in Toronto, and the staff there generally offer résumé and cover letter reviews, help preparing for job interviews, etc. There should be a list on the 211 Toronto website.

Most programs in Ontario are now funded through Employment Ontario, so you may also like to take a look at their site.
posted by eendje at 3:32 AM on September 15