Career Q & A: Featured Question

I'm 64 and quit work four years ago. Are there tests I might use either to resume a career or find volunteer opportunities?

A few good assessments that match industries with one's skills can be taken online, says Joseph Scalice, president and chief executive of RetireeWorkforce.com, a job board for retired workers. One he recommends is "Golden Career Assessment," at mygoldencareer.com. This inventory is geared toward experienced workers who want to apply their skills to new pursuits. For $35, the site offers six months' access to a variety of tools, including job descriptions and videos. Another option is the Campbell Interest and Skill Survey, at profiler.com, Mr. Scalice says; for $18, this 320-question test can help match occupations to your personality.
For a summary of career inventories and how to use them, see rileyguide.com/assess.html. (RileyGuide.com is a business partner of CareerJournal.com, part of Dow Jones & Co., publisher of this newspaper.) One caution, however: Most people find a career test is just a starting point for the self-exploration and research required to shift gears at your stage. Many find they need expert help, advice and perspective from an unbiased coach or adviser. For a directory of career coaches with varying levels of credentials, see the National Career Development Association's Web site at NCDA.org, and click on "Career Center;" expect to pay roughly $75 to $200 an hour. For a less-expensive route, check with the career center of the college or university you attended, and ask whether alumni qualify for free or reduced-price occupational help.