Career Breaks and how to deal with them

How to Return to Work After a Career Break

Whether planned or unexpected, taking a break from your career can make reentering the workforce feel daunting. While some recruiters and hiring managers will be empathetic to your time away, others may hesitate. Time away can impact your skills, confidence, and readiness for interviews, but a successful transition is possible with the right approach.

Here’s a guide to help you get back into the workforce after a career break.

Define Your Career Goals and Priorities

Before diving into job listings, reflect on what kind of role will be fulfilling to you now. Ask yourself if you want to return to a similar role or if this is the time to explore a new path. Clarify your non-negotiables—whether it’s salary, flexibility, or specific benefits—and align your job search with these goals. Understanding what you’re looking for can guide you toward opportunities that match both your professional and personal needs.

Reconnect with Your Industry and Network

If you’ve been out of the loop, it’s time to catch up on your industry’s latest trends and reconnect with your professional network. Here’s how to start:

  • Research Your Industry: Look into recent developments, in-demand skills, and industry news to get up to speed.
  • Network: Reach out to former colleagues, attend networking events, and join professional groups to expand your connections.
  • Attend Industry Events: Conferences, webinars, and informational interviews can help you build new contacts and gain current insights.

Networking not only builds relationships but also gives you a sense of the latest job market trends.

Refresh and Update Your Skills

Updating your skills will help you feel more confident and competitive. Consider options like:

  • Volunteering: Gaining experience through volunteer work can keep your skills fresh and demonstrate commitment to potential employers.
  • Taking Classes: Online courses and certifications can help you regain technical skills or learn new ones.
  • Keeping Up with Industry Content: Read industry newsletters, listen to relevant podcasts, and stay updated with blogs to familiarize yourself with current trends.

Refreshing your skills can help bridge any gaps in your resume and reassure employers of your readiness.

Polish Your Job Search Materials

If it’s been a while since your last job search, you’ll likely need to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Consider using a functional resume format, which emphasizes skills and accomplishments over a strict timeline, to help downplay employment gaps. Practicing interview techniques is also crucial, especially if you haven’t had to interview in some time.

Briefly Address Your Career Break

When discussing your career break, keep it concise and positive. Explain your time away in a brief, straightforward sentence and then steer the conversation back to your professional experience and skills. Here are a few example phrases:

  • “I spent time caring for a family member.”
  • “I chose to be home with my child until they started school.”
  • “I volunteered at a local charity while taking courses to enhance my skills.”

Whatever your reason, keep it simple and focus on the strengths and experiences that make you a qualified candidate now.

With these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to reenter the workforce, positioning yourself as capable and adaptable, ready for new opportunities.