Use your expertise to help others—and supplement your retirement savings along the way
After decades of work, you’ve built up more than just a career. You’ve developed deep knowledge, problem-solving skills, and a unique perspective that younger generations and businesses would love to learn from.
And the good news? You don’t have to stop using those skills just because you’ve retired. In fact, consulting may be the perfect way to stay engaged, feel valued, and earn extra income—all on your own terms.
This post will show you how to turn your experience into a profitable consulting side business, share real-life examples of retirees doing just that, and help you take the first steps toward your own consulting success.
💡 Why Consulting Works So Well in Retirement
Consulting is one of the best ways for older adults to generate income because it offers:
- ✅ Flexibility – You decide when, where, and how much you work.
- ✅ Low startup costs – You already have the skills and experience.
- ✅ High value – Businesses are willing to pay for insight that saves them time or money.
- ✅ Meaning and purpose – You continue to use your brain and feel useful.
Whether you worked in finance, education, health care, construction, marketing, or tech—you likely have knowledge someone needs.
👤 Real-Life Example #1: From Principal to Education Consultant
Susan, 67, spent 30 years as an elementary school principal. When she retired, she didn’t want to go back to a full-time job, but she still wanted to stay involved in education.
She started consulting part-time for charter schools and private academies that needed help designing curriculum and mentoring new teachers. She charges $85 per hour and typically works 10–15 hours per week during the school year.
What she loves:
“I get to help young educators and improve classrooms, without the day-to-day stress. And the income really helps pay for travel and grandkids.”
👨 Real-Life Example #2: Retired Engineer Advises Startups
Tom, 72, was a mechanical engineer who helped develop equipment for food processing factories. After retiring, he was contacted by a startup making kitchen robotics who needed industry insight.
He now works as an on-call consultant, reviewing designs and providing technical feedback. He charges a flat monthly retainer of $1,500 for availability and occasional Zoom meetings.
What he loves:
“I don’t have to commute or manage a team, but I’m still using my knowledge. Plus, it’s nice to feel appreciated again!”
👩 Real-Life Example #3: HR Pro Becomes a Career Coach
Brenda, 65, spent her career in human resources, helping companies recruit and retain talent. Now, she works as a freelance career coach for mid-career professionals who want to move up or switch jobs.
She offers resume help, LinkedIn profile makeovers, and interview prep. She earns $300–$500 per client and uses Zoom for all sessions.
What she loves:
“I feel like I’m making a difference—and I don’t have to leave the house.”
🔍 What Can You Offer as a Consultant?
If you’re not sure where to begin, start with these questions:
- What industries did you work in?
- What problems did you solve regularly?
- What systems or processes are second nature to you?
- Who could benefit from that knowledge today?
In-demand areas include:
- Business strategy and operations
- Marketing or advertising advice
- Bookkeeping and finance
- IT systems and cybersecurity
- Real estate or property management
- Construction planning or permitting
- Medical or legal documentation
- Grant writing or nonprofit development
- Education, training, or curriculum design
You don’t have to know everything. You just have to know more than the person you’re helping.
🧰 Tools and Tips to Get Started
You don’t need a fancy office or expensive equipment to launch a consulting practice. Here’s a quick checklist:
✅ Set up a professional email and Zoom account
People will want to meet virtually. A reliable email and video call setup is a must.
✅ Create a simple one-page profile or website
Include:
- A short bio
- Your area of expertise
- The value you offer
- How to contact you
You can use LinkedIn or even a free Google Site.
✅ Set your rates
You can charge hourly, per project, or on a monthly retainer. Rates vary by industry, but $50–$150/hour is typical for retirees with experience.
✅ Start spreading the word
Let friends, former coworkers, local businesses, and LinkedIn contacts know you’re available. Word-of-mouth is powerful.
🚀 Where to Find Clients
You don’t need a big advertising budget. Try these free or low-cost methods:
- Reach out to former employers or colleagues
- Join Facebook or LinkedIn groups related to your field
- Register on expert platforms like Clarity.fm, Upwork, or Thumbtack (depending on your specialty)
- Offer a free introductory session or phone call to get started
💬 Consulting on Your Terms
One of the best parts of consulting in retirement is that you’re the boss. You can:
- Take on one client or ten
- Work only during mornings or one day a week
- Stop and start anytime you want
- Charge what your time is worth
There are no rules—just opportunities.
✨ You’ve Earned It—Now Share It
You’ve spent a lifetime gaining knowledge, wisdom, and experience. Don’t let that go to waste. Someone out there needs your help, your insight, your guidance.
And you just might be surprised how rewarding—and profitable—it can be.
📘 This blog post is adapted from my book:
Extra Income Over 60: 48 Ways to Boost Your Retirement Income Today
Available now at Amazon.com in paperback and eBook formats.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making business decisions or setting up a consulting practice.