Returning to work after a break can be overwhelming and scary, but with a strong support system and proper preparation, it is definitely possible to make an effective career comeback. Here are a few things to know while returning after a break.
Take time to reflect
Although it is tempting to jump into job hunting directly, take some time to reflect and re-align your current values and priorities, and understand how you can work around your current constraints. Accordingly, you can take the required steps to make your career comeback journey effective.
Although having a long break can be discouraging, it is more important to focus on your skills rather than the duration of your career break. Make sure you are confident in your abilities and showcase your eagerness and readiness to return to the workforce. You could do this by upskilling in new technologies, building an impressive resume, networking effectively, etc.
Stay Up to Date
While returning after a break, it is essential that you keep up with the current industry trends. In addition to staying informed with new technology and tools, you also should understand the current best practices in job searching and networking. For example, using social media tools like Linkedin might not have been the norm earlier, but having a Linkedin profile is an important tool to help you land a job today.
Keep an Open Mind
Rather than solely trying to get a job, focus on building your profile. The most important thing is to break your break, and you can do this by learning new technologies (even ones you have never heard of!), taking up projects and internships, working in contract roles, pursuing returnships and so on. Keep an open mind and be ready to pursue different kinds of opportunities.
Own Your Story!
Be confident and trust yourself and your journey. You have taken a break for a reason - there is nothing wrong with it! There is much more to life than work, and needing time off for personal reasons is totally reasonable. Remember, as long as you have confidence in yourself and your skills you can achieve anything!
About the Author
Meghana Ganesh is a Community Manager at Her Second Innings. She is a Computer Science Graduate with a passion for women’s empowerment and equality, and diversity hiring in organizations.
Her Second Innings supports women professionals on a sabbatical in their journey of getting back to work. The mission of HSI is to guide women to achieve financial independence. Support from HSI comes in the form of job interviews, reskilling programs in Automation and, free Career Guidance Counselling. Sign up with us and complete your profile to get a call from our counselors to know your job fit.
Disclaimer
“The opinions expressed are those of the author. This blog claims no credit for any images or content posted on this site unless otherwise noted. Images and content on this blog belong to their respective owners. If there is an image or content on this blog that belongs to you and you do not wish for it to appear on this site, please e-mail us with a link to said image or content and it will be promptly removed”
