Exploring the Rise of 'Jobbonär': The New Face of Retirement Work
After many years filled with professional commitments, the notion of retiring can sound appealing—no more early alarms or daily commutes. However, for many, retirement is evolving into an exciting new chapter rather than a final farewell to the workforce. This is demonstrated by the trend of 'jobbonärer,' a Swedish term for retirees who choose to continue working, often on a part-time or flexible basis. This movement allows individuals to maintain their professional connections, keep their minds active, and supplement their pensions.
Statistics reveal the significant rise in older workers; according to Statistics Sweden (SCB), the number of older individuals in the workforce has doubled over the past two decades. A Kantar survey commissioned by a Swedish pension company indicates that an impressive 64% of Swedes aged 55 to 65 are contemplating part-time work as they transition into retirement. In 2021, the term 'jobbonär' was even recognized by Sweden's Language Council as a new word reflecting this growing trend.
The jobbonär phenomenon reflects a shift towards flexibility, appealing to both men and women who frequently gravitate towards roles in care, business services, or consulting in their areas of expertise. For those curious about becoming a jobbonär, here are several practical tips to get started:
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Identify Your Skills: Reflect on what skills you want to utilize or enhance. Whether it's consulting, mentoring, or project management, define your areas of interest.
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Plan Your Pension Withdrawal: Individuals can choose to withdraw 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of their general pension monthly. It's important to check occupational pension rules with your employer or pension company, particularly if you plan to continue working alongside your pension.
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Determine Your Work Preferences: Consider how much you want to work and the type of assignments you prefer. Many jobbonärer opt for flexibility and shorter, interim assignments.
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Select Your Work Format: As a self-employed individual, you can invoice without the need to establish your own business, ensuring a balance between security and freedom while avoiding bookkeeping hassles.
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Financial Planning: Working part-time while withdrawing parts of your pension can foster financial stability throughout retirement.
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Networking: Staying connected with colleagues is often just as important as the work itself. Engage with professional networks and events to remain informed and motivated.
Moreover, a recent report by the Pension Authority shows that the proportion of jobbonärer has risen by over 20% since 2012. In 2022, there were approximately 263,000 jobbonärer aged between 62 to 84, which equates to 42% of Sweden’s working population, or 15.5% of those aged 62 to 74. Interestingly, the majority of jobbonärer are men, and the percentage of self-employed among jobbonärer surpasses that of the general populace. The average age of jobbonärer, notably, was 70.2 years in 2022, highlighting that work can continue well into the later stages of life.
In conclusion, as the concept of retirement evolves, so does the workforce. The rise of jobbonärer not only reflects a desire for continued engagement but also highlights the importance of flexibility and community in the later stages of life. As more individuals embrace this lifestyle, the narrative surrounding retirement will undoubtedly keep changing—transforming from a concluding chapter into an ongoing journey.
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