Going Back to Work After a Break

When you have taken a career break returning to work can be difficult. If your company has kept your job open then you don’t have to deal with finding work but may still find it hard to adjust. If you are looking to break back into your career then it can be challenging. You need to make sure that you have kept your skill base up to date and that you can prove that you have learnt and developed over your time away.

Prepare To Return

It is important that you continue thinking about your career while you are taking a break from it. Keeping on top of developments and updating your skills will put you one step ahead when it becomes time to return. When you are ready to start looking for jobs, seek some career advice, find out what extra training you might need and put together a CV detailing your absence.

Make Your Break Count

You may have taken a break from your career but it is likely that you will have had many other experiences and learnt a lot of life skills. When you are explaining your career break you need to focus on these things and explain why they make you a more rounded person. On your CV focus on the skills you have gained and how these relate to your career. In interviews be able to give practical examples of what you have done and what you have learnt from it.

Dealing With Setbacks

If you don’t have a job waiting for you to go back to, then returning to work after a career break can be a frustrating experience. The longer you have been away, if you have been raising children for example, the more difficult it can be to return. If you are facing setbacks then try to get feedback and learn from them. Re-assess what you are doing and if there is any more training or experience you can get to help you find a job.

Adjusting To Working Life

Whether you have a job to go back to or are starting anew, returning to work can feel very strange. You suddenly have to get used to set hours, people telling you what to do and a general lack of freedom. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust. Try to see it as a new adventure. If you don’t understand something or feel you need more help or training, then don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Returning to work after a career break can be a strange and frustrating experience. Try to keep up with developments and any new skills you may need while you are away to make the transition easier. When you are ready to return, focus on what you have learnt and be able to give practical examples that relate to your career. If you are facing setbacks try and learn from them and move forward. Give yourself time to adjust to being back at work and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

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