Bridge Jobs Are The Career Step Everyone Should Consider
There used to be a light at the end of the tunnel for people in their early 60s getting ready for retirement. The old working career model, in place for decades, required hard work and loyalty in exchange for a pension and savings account. But for many today, it's more of a moving target. Rising costs and a desire to remain active are prompting people to stay in the workforce longer.
In this in-between space, a different kind of job is gaining traction. Bridge jobs are temporary or transitional roles that help professionals navigate between major career stages. Think of it as a short-term position that supports your financial needs.
The stark reality of today's economic climate is that 50-60% of retirees work in bridge jobs. Many of them need supplemental income before fully retiring; however, when individuals assume these roles after the age of 66, they potentially widen the wage gap.
Bridge jobs aren't just for retirees; they're also a smart move for younger professionals navigating career pivots or reentering the workforce. Whether it's shifting industries or building new skills, bridge roles are powerful stepping stones.
Unlike a gig, which is often piecemeal, bridge jobs are typically structured roles with some level of consistency or benefits.
Common examples include: Teaching or adjunct faculty roles while transitioning industries.
Contract-based project management gigs between executive posts.
Freelance consulting while launching a business.
Customer support or administrative work while reskilling.
Remote content roles for professionals pivoting into tech or media. Skills That Make Bridge Jobs Work
Bridge jobs demand flexibility. The most effective candidates bring a high level of adaptability and emotional intelligence. Employers value individuals who quickly learn new systems and manage workloads independently.
The must-have skills to land these positions include: Context switching—The ability to quickly shift between tasks, projects or communication styles without losing focus.
Microlearning—The capacity to absorb and apply new information in short bursts, especially helpful when onboarding into fast-paced or unfamiliar environments.
Boundary management—Knowing how to set limits on time and energy in roles that can easily spill over into off-hours, particularly for remote or freelance work.
Cultural fluency—Adapting to different workplace norms and expectations. This is critical when moving between industries or international teams.
Reputation management—Swiftly building credibility with new colleagues or clients, often without a long track record in the role.
Self-coaching—Using self-assessment or lightweight performance frameworks to stay on track without traditional career development support.
Bridge roles offer structure and flexibility, making them a strategic choice for career pivots, ... More reentry or phased retirement. getty
Finding a bridge job requires shifting the lens from traditional job boards to opportunity-rich networks. Start by targeting companies known for flexible or contract hiring, such as startups, nonprofits or consultancies.
Here's where to look: Gary's Guide—A curated tech platform spotlighting job openings, startup gigs and tech opportunities, especially in innovation-driven markets like New York.
LinkedIn—Use terms like 'contract,' 'interim,' 'freelance' or 'consulting' in job searches.
Upwork and Toptal—For freelance and project-based consulting work.
Universities and boot camps—Teaching and mentoring roles are great stepping stones for people during transitional periods.
Industry Slack groups and professional forums—These platforms post niche, high-quality roles not listed elsewhere.
The stigma around non-linear paths is fading. And for many, a well-chosen bridge job can be the boldest career move yet. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes What Time Poverty Is Costing You—And How To Take Control By Cheryl Robinson Forbes Medical Gaslighting Is Real. Women Leaders Are Raising Their Voices By Cheryl Robinson Forbes Late ADHD Diagnoses In Women Are Shaping A New Leadership Model By Cheryl Robinson
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