The shortage of experienced accountants that many organisations still suffer from is driving creative recruitment strategies, making traditional work structures more flexible. A new trend emerging in the workplace is the hiring of retirees as temporary employees. This development opens the door to a range of possibilities, with retirees being able to contribute to the labour market's talent shortage in an appropriate way, said Jens Spittael-Speeckaert, Associate Director at recruitment specialist Robert Walters.

What opportunities does an interim job offer retired professionals?

"The concept where retirees perform interim jobs is, by definition, a flexible system," Jens explains. "Employers are often willing to offer a flexible schedule, depending on the needs of the project and the availability of the retired employee. In many cases, subject to mutual agreement with the employer, the retiree can choose when and how much he or she works. Some retired interim employees choose to assist on a part-time basis for an extended period of time to support day-to-day activities. Others prefer short-term assignments to fill specific gaps. Would you like to spend winters under the sun? Then you may choose to take on assignments only in spring and summer. Are you taking care of the grandchildren during the school holidays? No problem, then plan your work periods only outside the school holidays. As a retiree, you have the freedom to coordinate work perfectly with your private life."

Are there any other benefits to holding a temporary position after you retire?

The big advantage of holding temporary jobs during retirement is, of course, the increased financial comfort.

From the age of 65 or with a career of at least 45 years, you are allowed to earn additional income without restriction. "The salary you receive as a temporary worker is therefore a nice addition to your pension," explains Jens. "Incidentally, an interim job does not necessarily have to be performed at the same intensity as your previous career. For example, if you worked as a chief accountant or accounting manager before you retired, you can also opt for a purely operational interim job within accounting: you earn a nice extra income thanks to your extensive experience, but without the stress, long hours and many meetings you knew before."

Another big plus of this concept is the social interaction you experience as a retiree by staying in the workplace. You connect with younger generations, share your knowledge and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive work environment. "It creates a win-win situation where both young and experienced workers can learn from each other. Moreover, you stay actively involved in your field. This allows you to keep up with modern developments and hone your skills," says Jens.

What is your advice for retired professionals looking to make the leap back into the workplace?

Jens: "Firstly, I would recommend taking your time and thinking about what you really want. With your extensive experience, you can probably go in several directions, so this is the perfect opportunity to adapt your professional activity to your interests or to revive an old passion. For example, are there certain sectors that have always fascinated you but that you have not been able to explore during your career? Factors like job security and pay weigh less heavily at this stage of life than during the peak of your career, so you can focus fully on what you really want to do."

Furthermore, it is important not to consider your age as an obstacle. " Accountant has been a bottleneck profession for years and companies are struggling with a huge talent shortage," Jens knows. "Professionals who bring with them extensive experience and who also demonstrate maturity, independence and motivation are therefore eagerly sought after by employers."

"Finally, I would advise making full use of your network when looking for assignments. Discuss it with family, friends and former colleagues to get the ball rolling. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and connect with potential employers and recruiters. That way, you will surely get in touch with organisations that wish to use your expertise in no time," Jens concludes.

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