Retirement but Not Stopping Work: Why Modern Seniors Choose "Fractional Jobs

In an era where society is fully entering an aging society, work patterns are changing. Previously, there were only "full-time work" or "retirement at home." Now, a new option called "Fractional Work" or time-based employment has emerged, which is becoming an interesting trend in Singapore and around the world.

What is Fractional Work?

Fractional Workers are a group of highly skilled professionals who are hired for only a "fraction" of the time and cost compared to full-time employees. They share their skills and time with multiple employers simultaneously.

• How is it different from Part-time: It is often an executive or strategic level position (e.g., CFO, CMO, senior consultant).

• Responsibilities: They do not just provide advice like a Consultant but actively manage and lead teams in the long term.

• Benefits: In Singapore, they also receive contributions to the Central Provident Fund (CPF) and vacation days proportional to their time.

Why do Seniors choose this path?

• Desire for value but reduced pressure: They want to share their experiences and connections but do not want the stress of a full-time job.

• Flexibility: It allows time for personal projects, exercise, or family care while still earning a living.

• Lifelong learning: Some choose to spend their remaining time learning new skills and obtaining certification as trainers.

Benefits to the Business Sector (especially SMEs)

• Access to top talent at an affordable price: SMEs often cannot afford the salaries of full-time executive employees, but hiring on a fractional basis allows them to bring in professional talent to help strategize within a limited budget.

• Reduced risk and fixed costs: There is no need to bear full benefits and reduce complicated onboarding processes, as these experts are ready to start immediately.

Challenges to face

• Uncertain income: In the early stages, income may be only 5-20% of the previous salary, and individuals must bear their own health insurance costs.

• Mindset barriers: Many organizations still hold the image that employees must sit in the office for 5 days and have concerns about maintaining company confidentiality.

• Ageism: The misconception that older individuals learn slowly or have decreased efficiency is still a significant barrier to overcome.

Fractional Work is not just a solution to labor shortages but a creation of a new work ecosystem that honors the "experience" of older individuals and meets the "agility" needs of SMEs in the modern world.

Whether you are an experienced expert, an older individual who still wants to work meaningfully, or an organization looking for flexible talent.

Find the right job or the right person for your organization today at Jobcadu because "experience" should not be limited by age.

This article is compiled and summarized from a report by Channel NewsAsia (CNA) on the trend of Fractional Jobs in Singapore, with the team analyzing, compiling, and contextualizing the information to suit current readers and the labor market.