Full-Time to Fulfillment: The Bridge Employment Revolution

Are you ready to rethink what stepping away from traditional full-time jobs means to you?

As we reach critical career crossroads, new horizons await us, especially for women executives nearing 50, 60, or beyond. While we might envision the runway getting shorter, there’s still a bright future ahead. It's not merely about leaving a legacy; for a growing number of us, it's about remaining engaged and making meaningful contributions as we enter what can be the most fulfilling phase of our lives and careers.

This blog delves into the challenges, personal narratives, and practical solutions that encourage a fresh perspective on navigating this pivotal career crossroad and reimagining your life and work. It references two essential resources, "Older Workers: Exploring and Addressing the Stereotypes"¹ and "The Future of Aging in Canada,"² for those seeking a deeper understanding; links to these are provided below. Research conducted across the USA, UK, and other regions has revealed variations in the definition of "older workers." However, the central trends, sentiments, attitudes, and narratives have remained remarkably consistent.

Breaking Ageism Barriers - Past Biases and Myths

Ageism remains a significant challenge, especially for women in executive and leadership roles, but the landscape is changing! In Canada, an "older worker" is often defined as someone 55 or older¹. Many of us do not relate to being older workers. More women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are choosing to stay in the workforce. These women are engaged in various sectors as corporate employees, self-employed professionals, and business owners, working full-time, part-time, seasonal, and casual roles. Many take breaks from their careers and return later. The one indisputable fact is that the economic influence of women in this age group is significant and influential. 

Statistics Canada reports that women aged 55 and above now comprise 20% of the labour force. This underscores the critical need to retain leadership and expertise for effective knowledge transfer, a resource that organizations and communities can scarcely afford to lose.

Despite the stereotype that "older workers" struggle with new technology, many excel and thrive in today’s digital world. A poll by AGE-WELL in 2020 found that 88% of Canadians aged 65+ use the internet daily, and 65% own a smartphone (AGE-WELL, 2020)². I suspect those numbers have grown exponentially since the poll. While we may not have grown up with gadgets, we have witnessed technology's evolution and rapid change. Our passion for learning and staying current fuels our curiosity and excitement about embracing new tech.

Additionally, the stereotype that "older workers" are more prone to sickness and absence is misleading. Employees with over 40 years of experience bring a unique work ethic, invaluable expertise, maturity, and dedication that continues to influence the professional landscape. For example, while some airlines exhibit ageism, a few have raised their age criteria for cabin crew members over the past decade, recognizing the dependability and maturity of "older workers" who are reliable, punctual, have fewer absences, and excel in customer service.

"Is 58 years old too old to work as a cabin crew member?" Source: Quora, paraphrased. Author, Janice Bridger.
During training, I met a 63-year-old grandmother who had always dreamed of being a Flight Attendant but put her ambitions aside to care for her family. After her husband's sudden death, her children encouraged her to pursue her dream. She worked as a Flight Attendant for seven years, finding joy in realizing her lifelong aspiration. Her story shows that it's never too late to chase your dreams, and she was one of the happiest colleagues I encountered. If you want to be a Flight Attendant, go for it!

Continuing with the themes of runways, horizons, legacies, and mentorship, I encourage you to search for "Bette Nash" and explore her remarkable 67-year career as a flight attendant.

Real-World Solutions - Bridging the Employment Gaps

To combat ageism, companies must adopt a culture and mindset that values experience as much as innovation. Case studies from progressive organizations reveal how bridge employment models have effectively retained top talent and filled the knowledge gap from one generation to another. Many major corporations have implemented flexible consulting roles for senior women executives. This approach kept invaluable experience within the company and fostered an authentic, inclusive culture that encouraged knowledge transfer and growth.

A Bright Future - The Bridge Employment Revolution

The bridge employment revolution is on the rise, and women executives are at the forefront of this movement. As we break ageism barriers and debunk myths, we pave the way for an inclusive and diverse workforce that is authentic. By embracing change and continuing to contribute our skills, experience, and passion, we can create a bright future for ourselves and the generations that follow. Let's continue shattering mythical barriers and redefining success for today's women! While a number defines your age, your worth is immeasurable.

The significance of mentorship is immeasurable. It is a vital bridge connecting generations and preserving an organization’s values and culture. Research indicates that diversity within leadership teams enhances decision-making and fosters innovation. Women executives are crucial in promoting diversity, bringing an inherent sense of responsibility to share knowledge and uplift others. Their unique insights and experiences position them as exceptional mentors for emerging leaders.

Taking Action to Support the Revolution

• Establish Mentorship Programs: Leverage the power of your unique perspectives and wisdom to prioritize mentorship programs that facilitate knowledge transfer in your organization. These initiatives ensure that seasoned executives' skills, experience, and wisdom benefit the entire organization.
• Engage with Peers: Share your story and intentions for continuing on the runway towards your bright horizon. Inspire others by discussing how bridge employment can be rewarding and impactful.

The Attraction - What's in it for You

You can create a fulfilling lifestyle while transitioning from full-time employment. Many women have successfully shifted to respected part-time roles or consulting, finding balance, purpose, and self-actualization in mentoring the next generation. Women continue to reinvent their lives and careers in ways that yield numerous benefits, reflecting their growth and aspirations for continued contributions to the world. Women are combining travel with work as digital nomads. Women are responding to a growing need for Fractional Executives³ who offer their expertise to a business as part-time leaders, often brought in to help fill leadership gaps or leverage external experience in a new phase of the company's growth.

The Fear - Loss of Professional Identity and Social Network

Transitioning from full-time roles is not about losing your professional identity or withdrawing from life; it's an opportunity to harness years of leadership and experience into flexible and fulfilling positions. As a woman executive, you can channel your skills into new roles that empower you to become the person you've always aspired to be. This journey opens doors to opportunities that foster meaningful connections with others who share your vision and goals. Embrace this transition as a chance to redefine your path and inspire those around you.

Taking Action to Address Your Fear

1. Explore New Avenues: Consider roles that leverage your skills in different capacities. Whether it's part-time leadership roles, board positions, or advisory roles, numerous opportunities exist to continue making an impact.
2. Network and Connect: Get involved in communities that focus on women executives. You'll find your tribe there - of all ages! Sharing experiences and insights with others can support and inspire you during this transition and beyond. Your network is an asset that supports your self-regard and uplifts others.
3. Upgrade and Upskill: Investing in yourself is always a wise choice. Consider attending courses or conferences to stay current and expand your skill set.

The Fear - Financial Implications

Transitioning to bridge employment can bring financial uncertainties. However, it offers the opportunity to recalibrate and explore new income streams. Economic analysis suggests that bridge employment can bolster financial security, allowing individuals to continue earning while enjoying more flexibility.

Taking Action to Address Your Fear

• Plan Ahead: Engage with your trusted financial advisor to map out a plan that supports your lifestyle and goals during this transition. If your financial advisor still speaks the old "traditional retirement" rhetoric, push back. If your advisor is still delivering the "Freedom 55" marketing message, it's time to re-educate her/him. This is not your parent's retirement.
• Explore New Ventures: Use this phase to explore entrepreneurial endeavours or passion projects that can supplement your income and provide personal fulfillment. Be cautious of the side hustle fever. We don't want to be hustling in our Executive Encore.

Conclusion

The shift from full-time employment doesn't mean the end of your professional journey—it’s the beginning of a new chapter, your Executive Encore, the opportunity to remaster your life and work.
Bridge employment can be part of the runway that empowers you to reshape and extend your career path, maintain your contributions to your field, profession, and industry, and make a lasting impact through mentorship and leadership. Your story is just beginning—embrace the revolution today. Choose your runway and keep your eyes on your horizon.

Your Next Steps
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Listen to the podcast and watch interviews on YouTube with women continuing to contribute their leadership skills in their Executive Encore.

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Resources

Older Workers: Exploring and Addressing the Stereotypes

The Future of Aging in Canada

What Is a Fractional Executive? 8 Benefits + How To Hire (This link is for information only and is not sponsored)