In It for Life: Maximizing Longevity
By Tim Lybarger
“The main advantage of working from home is you get to find out what cats really do all day.”
–Lynne Truss
“Hi! This is Helen. How can I help you?”
I was surprised. I’d been trying to place an order online with a gardening company and the website was not cooperating. It had promised me free shipping as a new subscriber and the checkout wasn’t taking the code.
Somewhat exasperated, I grabbed my phone and called their customer service number. Expecting further frustration, I was greeted by Helen who, by the sound of her voice, was clearly a bit older. But she was sincerely friendly! In fact, we got into an actual conversation.
It turns out that Helen was retired from a long-time role as Food Service Director for a noted private college in the Northeast. Downtime was not her thing, so she took on this customer service role for a company she truly admired – working from home.
People Over Technology
One of the most appealing things about Helen was her genuineness. She admitted that the company was having trouble with the website and that she “doesn’t know much about technology, but I can make sure you get what you want to order – along with the free shipping.”
Wow! Friendly, genuine, helpful, and not a techno-geek who makes me feel stupid.
I almost didn’t want to end the conversation.
New World – New Opportunities
Yes, the pandemic has created much personal tragedy. And, it has disrupted much of what was familiar to us.
Yet, for those of us viewing the further end of the runway, it has also opened up a huge range of possibilities for maximizing the many years we may still have ahead of us.
If, like Helen, downtime is not your thing, then you may want to explore working from home.
How to Go About It
I recommend that you start by identifying a specific company that aligns with your interests and values, as Helen did. Check out the company’s website. Almost always, if you scroll all the way to the bottom, you’ll find a link to company jobs.
You can also always go to the online job search websites, such as FlexJobs, especially those targeted to the older demographic, like RetirementJobs.com. Or, do general web search for home-based jobs.
Now is a great time to consider new options. Companies are hungry for reliable employees and experienced folks like us. They are also more than willing to train you with the skills you need.
The world needs what we have to offer, even from the comfort of our own homes!
Photo courtesy pexels.com
