Move over, millennials—boomers are taking over the gig economy, and they’re doing it in style. While younger generations might have popularized the idea of side hustles, baby boomers are proving that age is just a number when it comes to building a thriving gig-based career.
So, what’s their secret? For starters, boomers bring a wealth of experience to the table. Whether it’s decades in a specific industry or a lifetime of honing a particular skill, they’ve got knowledge that’s hard to beat. And in the gig economy, expertise pays. Clients are willing to shell out big bucks for someone who knows their stuff, and boomers are cashing in. According to a study by Prudential Financial, about 31 percent of workers who only work in the gig economy are baby boomers, as reported by AARP.
Take consulting, for example. Many retirees are offering their services as consultants in fields like finance, marketing, or education. They’re not just working for peanuts—they’re charging premium rates because they’ve got the track record to back it up. And thanks to platforms like LinkedIn, it’s easier than ever for them to connect with clients. According to research from the Freelancers Union and Upwork, baby boomers are the generation most likely to start freelancing, accounting for around 30 percent of the country’s freelancers.
But it’s not just about traditional skills. Boomers are also getting creative with their gigs. From teaching music lessons to starting Etsy shops selling handmade goods, they’re turning their hobbies into income streams. And because they’re doing something they love, it doesn’t feel like work. According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, one-fifth of American workers in the 50 to 65 cohort are in non-traditional work arrangements, highlighting the growing trend of boomers in the gig economy.
Another reason boomers are thriving? They’re not afraid to invest in themselves. They’re taking online courses, attending workshops, and learning new technologies to stay competitive. Want to start a YouTube channel? There’s a tutorial for that. Interested in selling products online? Boomers are mastering e-commerce platforms like Shopify.
Flexibility is another big factor. Many boomers are retired or semi-retired, which means they have the freedom to choose gigs that fit their schedules. They’re not stuck in a 9-to-5 grind, so they can pick and choose projects that align with their interests and availability.
And let’s not forget the power of networking. Boomers have spent decades building professional relationships, and now they’re leveraging those connections to land gigs. Whether it’s through word-of-mouth referrals or alumni networks, they’re tapping into resources that younger workers might not have access to.
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Boomers face challenges too, like adapting to new technologies or competing with younger, tech-savvy workers. But here’s the thing: they’re not letting those obstacles stop them. They’re asking for help, learning from their mistakes, and finding ways to stand out.
So, what can we learn from boomers? First, experience is valuable—don’t underestimate it. Second, it’s never too late to start something new. And finally, the gig economy isn’t just for young people. With the right mindset and a little hustle, anyone can succeed.
Whether you’re a boomer looking for inspiration or a younger worker wondering how to up your game, take a page from their playbook. The gig economy is full of opportunities, and boomers are showing us how to make the most of them.
