From Corporate Job Loss to Joining the Gig Economy

Losing a corporate job can be a devastating experience, particularly for women over 60 who have dedicated years to their careers. However, in the face of this setback, many resilient women are discovering new opportunities in the gig economy. They are embracing the flexibility and autonomy of gig work to keep money flowing while searching for traditional employment. Many people, once working in the gig world, determine they prefer the opportunity to develop their own business and not be at the whim of a 9-5 job.

The Corporate Challenge:

Research suggests that women over 60 face unique challenges in the corporate world, often being let go from their jobs at a higher rate than their male counterparts. A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that older women face more discrimination in hiring than older men, indicating that age and gender biases combined could also affect their job security within corporations (Neumark, Burn, & Button, 2015).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2020), unemployment rates for women over 55 tend to be higher than for men in the same age group. This could indicate that older women are more likely to be let go from their jobs. A survey by AARP also found that women are more likely than men to be pushed into early retirement, which can be a form of being let go from a corporate job (AARP, 2018).

The concept of ‘gendered ageism,’ a combination of age and gender discrimination, further compounds the challenges faced by older women in the workforce (Calasanti & King, 2018). The lack of representation of women in senior roles, which increases with age, can also translate into a higher likelihood of being let go (PwC, 2019).

Embracing the Gig Economy:

Transitioning from a corporate career to a gig world does take a mental shift. In my experience, it is better to focus on creating employment opportunities.

When I took my corporate buyout, my plan was to finish my master’s in spirituality and become a travel writer and photographer. I was working down that path when Covid-19 brought travel to a screeching halt. Next, I built a mask-making business to help someone replace their income during COVID-19. While it was a short-term endeavor, it was successful. I’ve conducted extensive research for global PR companies, developed websites for small businesses, worked as a brand strategist for software start-ups, and finally developed my website, maryharveygurley.com, to help older women reinvent their lives. Do I miss the regular paycheck and health benefits, absolutely, but I also appreciate the ability to set my own schedule and rules. One of my favorite jobs is working part-time at a family members landscape company. I didn’t realize how much I needed to socialize and be around people until I began working there.

My point is women over 60 should not letting societal biases define their career paths. Instead, they can embrace the gig economy, which allows them flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to pursue their passions on their terms.

From consulting and freelancing to starting their businesses, women can leverage their years of experience and expertise to create meaningful work and impact. They are proving that age is an asset, not a liability and that the gig economy is a viable path for those who refuse to be limited by corporate constraints.

The Rise of the Silver Gig Worker:

As more women over 60 enter the gig economy, they are redefining what it means to be a successful professional in today’s world. They show that success is not defined by a corporate title or a corner office but by the ability to create value, make a difference, and live on one’s terms.

The rise of the silver gig worker is not just a trend but a movement – a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and unbreakable spirit of women who refuse to be defined by their age or gender. As they continue to break barriers and shatter stereotypes, they inspire us all to embrace new opportunities and pursue our passions, regardless of age or background.

Losing a corporate job can start a new and exciting chapter for women over 60. By embracing the gig economy, they are not only keeping money flowing while seeking traditional employment but also discovering a path to fulfillment and success on their terms. As more women join this movement, they are proving that age and gender are not barriers to success but sources of strength and inspiration.