The great career comeback

They call it a career break, but let’s face it, for a majority of women, taking time out from work is anything but a break. All we’ve really done is switch from a paid job to an unpaid one and life is just as hectic.  

Whether we’re carrying the parental load, providing care to a loved one, or tackling personal illness – at the end of the day, there’s rarely any time to enjoy the “time off” or plan for our eventual re-entry into the workforce.

It’s no surprise then, that many of us feel overwhelmed and unprepared when that time comes. A survey study by recruitment firm, Hays, reports 69 percent of women surveyed found the return to work challenging. The good news is there are some simple steps we can take to ease our anxiety and build confidence. Here’s how:

(Re)define your goals

Before rushing back in, take a moment to consider what you really want from your next job. Have your professional aspirations changed? What kind of work-life balance do you want? Which jobs will help you achieve these? Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. It might be the perfect time for a career change. 

(Re)discover your talents

Time to write that killer CV. Don’t just focus on your formal qualifications or professional experience. Outline the informal work you did in your career break too. It might have been unpaid but the skills you’ve picked up, probably without even knowing it, will be prized by employers. Click here for some tips on how to do this.

Be bold if you can. Research shows women are prone to underselling themselves, so try to fight against this. You can master the uncomfortable art of self-promotion in less than 25 minutes by listening to FW’s ‘Shortlisted’ podcast on the topic. 

(Re)connect with work peers

Put the word out that you’re ready to get back into the game. Contact former colleagues to see if there are any openings coming up. Ask friends to keep an eye out for job opportunities. If you’re able, attend industry conferences and networking events. Reach out to potential mentors for insights into how to prepare for, and secure, the job you want. You might be surprised how willing people are to help if you ask for their guidance. 

(Re)assure yourself constantly

This is especially important for those returning to work after a long time away. Be kind to yourself about feeling anxious. It’s completely normal. Be patient if the doors aren’t opening as quickly as you’d like, as hard as this may be. Try to stay positive and persist, even when it seems like you’re getting nowhere. We know it can be challenging, but you’re not alone. Seek comfort from friends, mentors and community. And remind yourself that your hard work will pay off.

(Re)imagine your re-entry

Don’t limit yourself to answering job ads. Contact companies you’re interested in and ask if there are roles coming up. If nothing else, it will put you front of mind if an opportunity arises down the track. Plus, they’ll admire your chutzpah. Employers are increasingly seeking new ways to attract staff, so be open to new pathways. Some businesses are even creating programs specifically aimed at attracting people returning from a career break.

Introducing The Returnship

Returnships are schemes designed to help people, typically women, re-enter the workforce. They vary between organisations but they usually involve mentorships, coaching and skills training – all paid – often with the view to ongoing work upon completion.

According to iRelanch, a US-based consulting firm, there are more than 100 returnship programs around the world. Amazon, Dell, Paypal, Pepsico and Microsoft are among the big names launching these schemes to entice returnees. 

The concept is gaining momentum in Australia too. Westpac’s EmPOWERUP Tech Returnship is specifically designed to support women who are ready to unpause their careers.

“We understand there are many reasons people may take a career break and we’re keen to tap into their talent when they’re able to return to paid work”, said Jessica Magro, Executive Manager Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Technology Westpac. 

“But we recognise that returning to the workforce can be overwhelming, especially in the rapidly evolving world of technology. So, we designed our EmPOWERUP returnship to build skills and confidence within the tech space and help women get their careers back on track.”

The 24-week EmPOWERUP program provides purpose-built professional development that includes workshops, podcasts, and role-specific training. Importantly, the upskilling isn’t just for returnees, as Magro explains.

“Westpac’s people leaders undertake specific training so they can better understand our returnees’ needs – especially when it comes to flexibility. Plus, our EmPOWERUP recruits will have the added support of completing their returnship with people who have similar life experiences and challenges,” said Magro.

Westpac is part of a growing movement recognising that returnees have a lot to offer but might need help getting started. Returnships are a fantastic way to reboot your career. The thought of returning to work might be daunting but there are some exciting programs out there ready to help you on your way.