Baby Boomers- Changes in the Workforce

Supportive, informative, helpful, an oasis in the Desert. All of things describe the Scottsdale Job Network (SJN). Hundreds of people have been assisted by the SJN in finding their new employer through networking and targeted search. In large measure, the SJN members are focused on finding that next full-time employment situation, but what about those of us who are looking for a non-traditional position, perhaps less than full-time position?
I am one of the 77 million Baby Boomers in the country, a generation that cannot be ignored! As a demographic tidal wave, the Boomers enjoy unparalleled prosperity, attention from every retailer of every product in the nation and inevitably, will impact every employer in the world as they retire and leave the workplace. That workplace titlewave has begun.
According to the GAO, the combined workforce from the younger workforce, (Generation’s X and Y) is 51 million workers, which leaves a 20 million job gap which will be left unfilled by 2010.
My approach to job search is not unlike the majority of those in my generation. I have been there and done that, and I’m not really looking for another full-time, 80 hr a week job at this stage in my life. I want flexibility, the ability to make an impact in an organization by applying my 30 years experience in human resources and have time to spend enjoying some of my hobbies and recreation. Energy, I’ve got it, but you know what, I want to use that energy in a number of areas of my life not just working 100% of the time. Put me on a project and I’ll put in 110% for that project- don’t you worry, but in exchange, I want some flexibility from my employer or client.
I can see the tidal wave moving through Phoenix and the number of Baby Boomers leaving the traditional workforce and coming to SJN for support, information and networking contacts. I think the nontraditional workforce will increase over the coming years and we will see more and more employers offering flexibility for their workers, and offering part-time jobs in place of the traditional full-time employment with all the bells and whistles. Why this may even help employers deal with the ever rising costs for turnover, benefits and training! Think about the benefits of hiring someone who has a great work ethic, job loyalty and a wealth of experience in your line of work! Boomers take heart!.