How to Get a Temporary Job Over 50

If you're 50 or older and retired or semi-retired, and still want or need a paying job, there's a way to get traditional office work without worrying about the age issue. Temporary employment agencies often hire workers over 50 for clerical, marketing and other positions.

Instructions

1. Get a list of temp agencies in your area. While Kelly and Manpower are the biggest names nationally, different cities and regions have their own temp agencies. Check the phone book and Internet for agency descriptions.

2. Contact organizations in your area that assist retirees or older workers. They can help you find the best temp agencies in your area for workers over 50. They may also have a list of temp positions at companies that don't use an agency.

3. Revamp your resume. Even though you're not looking for a permanent job, edit your resume to highlight your most pertinent temp skills. Focus on the experience and skills you'd like to use on temp assignments if you've worked in various fields throughout your career.

4. Hone long-lost skills. Reacquaint yourself with retail sales, accounting, proofreading or other in-demand skills you haven't used in some time. This will improve your chances of landing a temp job.

5. Be flexible to land a job. Temp agencies offer jobs with many different types of companies, and the assignments range from half a day to months or even years. Consider all available temp positions. The assignment you never thought you'd like may turn out to be the most fulfilling.

Resources

• Check out AARP Magazine's List of Best Companies to Work For.
• Read about what a temp agency does here.