Returning to the workforce after a break can feel overwhelming. Perhaps your reasons were personal, like raising a family or caring for a loved one. Or maybe the decision stemmed from external factors. Whatever the case, know that you’re not alone.
Surveys show that a majority of individuals have at least one event during their lifetimes necessitating time away from work. According to a 2022 LinkedIn survey, nearly 62% of employees have taken a career break at some point.
Moreover, 35% would be interested in one in the future. To date, over 1 million LinkedIn members have incorporated the “career break” feature into their profiles, as reported by the company.
This guide will empower you with tools and tips to navigate the job market confidently and rediscover your career path.
Assess Your Current Situation
Begin by revisiting your career goals and reflecting on how they may have evolved since you last worked. Consider whether your interests still align with your previous field or if you’re drawn to new opportunities. This introspection will guide your next steps and help you focus your efforts effectively.
Simultaneously, you need to refresh your skills to meet the demands of today’s job market. Identify areas where your skills may be outdated or in need of enhancement.
Online courses, workshops, or certifications offer convenient and flexible options to upgrade your skill set. These resources provide valuable knowledge for professional development, making you a more competitive candidate.
Rockhurst University notes that for those considering a significant shift, nursing presents an excellent opportunity. Nursing is a rewarding profession known for its stability, growth potential, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives. Second-degree Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer a streamlined pathway for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to transition into nursing.
Furthermore, undertaking second-degree ABSN nursing programs online provides students with the flexibility to balance their coursework with other commitments. This makes the program particularly appealing for career changers or individuals reentering the workforce.
Networking & Rebuilding Your Professional Presence
To effectively reconnect in your industry, contact your existing network, including former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts. Personalized messages expressing your desire to reconnect and update them on your career aspirations can help reignite these valuable connections.
Use LinkedIn to update your profile and showcase your career break transparently.
Emphasize any fresh skills, experiences, or objectives you’ve acquired during your break from the workforce.
Participate in industry events like conferences and meetups. These gatherings provide opportunities to reconnect with peers, learn about current trends, and expand your professional circle.
However, McKinsey & Company notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a decrease in workplace connections and networking opportunities for many professionals. This shift underscores the importance of proactively rebuilding your professional network.
As we move into a post-pandemic environment, personal connections, and referrals are expected to play an increasingly significant role in job searches. Therefore, investing time and effort in networking efforts can greatly enhance your career prospects.
Addressing Your Career Gap
Addressing a career gap on your resume or in an interview requires honesty and tact.
According to CNBC, concealing gaps may lead to assumptions about job performance, making transparency the better approach.
CEO of Delivering Happiness, Jenn Lim, advises job seekers to acknowledge the break without delving into intimate details, focusing instead on succinct explanations. For instance, citing a need to prioritize mental health or personal matters is acceptable without oversharing.
It’s also acceptable to provide a general reason for the gap, such as attending to personal matters, without specific details.
When discussing your career gap, emphasize any skills gained or honed during your time away, whether through volunteering, coursework, or freelance work. Additionally, convey your renewed passion and commitment to reentering the workforce, demonstrating enthusiasm for future opportunities.
Re-Entering the Job Market
Entering the job market after a career break demands a strategic approach to showcase your value and readiness to return to work. Start by customizing your resume and cover letter to emphasize the abilities that match the job criteria.
Emphasize any experiences gained during your break that demonstrate your ability to excel in the role. Focus on selling your strengths and qualifications confidently.
Think about gradually reintegrating into the workforce by starting with part-time or temporary positions. This approach enables you to acquire valuable experience and build confidence before committing to a full-time position. These opportunities can also provide flexibility as you readjust to the demands of a professional environment.
Exploring returnship programs is another valuable option for transitioning back into the workforce. These structured initiatives offer training, mentorship, and networking opportunities tailored to professionals returning from a career break.
Additional Considerations in Transitioning Back to the Workforce
As you navigate your journey back into the workforce, it’s essential to consider additional factors that can impact your transition and success. First and foremost, patience is crucial. It may take time to find the ideal job opportunity that matches your skills, interests, and personal situation. Remain persistent and maintain focus on your objectives.
Addressing childcare or other logistical needs is crucial for a smooth reentry into the workforce. Plan and explore options for childcare, transportation, or any other practical changes that may be necessary to support your return to work.
Moreover, you need to underestimate yourself. Even if your skills and experiences may not seem immediately relevant, they hold value and can be transferred to various roles.
Recognize your strengths, accomplishments, and the unique perspective you bring as someone who has taken a career break. Your resilience, adaptability, and diverse experiences can be assets in the workplace.
In conclusion, returning to the workforce after time away can feel like a challenge, but it’s a journey filled with potential and opportunity. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can refresh your skills, rebuild your professional presence, and confidently navigate the job market.
Remember, the break you took doesn’t define your abilities but rather adds a unique chapter to your story. Embrace your experiences, showcase your transferable skills, and step forward with enthusiasm. The path back to a fulfilling career can be smoother than you think.