Posted in Career Best Practices

Back to School, Back to Work: Reentering the Workforce After a Break

Reentering the workforce after a break can be challenging. Perhaps you took time away to care for a loved one, be a stay-at-home parent, or travel.

Developing a plan for returning to the workforce eases the transition. The following tips can help.

Clarify What You Want in a Job

Evaluate what you are looking for in a job:

Review your education, skills, experience, and accomplishments.
Consider your interests, needs, values, and strengths.
Focusing on what you desire increases the likelihood of being happy in your new job.

Earn Industry Certification

Professional certification relevant to your desired job demonstrates that you have met industry standards and are qualified to perform the work. The benefits include:

Skill validation. Industry certification verifies that your knowledge and skills are current and valuable.
Ongoing learning. Professional development shows you stay current with industry news, trends, and best practices.
Credibility. Certification enhances your reputation within the industry.
Marketability. Professional certification helps you stand out in a competitive job market.
Job opportunities. Certification increases your qualifications for additional jobs.

Update Your Resume

Include in your resume the education, skills, and experience you gained during your time away from the workforce. Also, use your cover letter to explain your employment gap in depth. Share how what you did relates to your desired role and how you can provide value.

Develop Your Elevator Pitch

Prepare a brief synopsis about your professional background and desire to reenter the workforce:

Include your skills, experience, and attributes that set you apart from other candidates.
Help the listener envision you in a specific job.
Practice your pitch until it feels natural and sounds conversational.
Ask a family member or friend for constructive feedback to improve delivery.

Network

Participate in industry seminars, conferences, and professional associations to meet other professionals in your field:

Briefly share details about your time away from the workforce and plans for reentry.
Include the type of job you seek and your qualifications.
Ask about relevant job opportunities and mentorship.
Request introductions to other industry professionals, human resources employees, and hiring managers.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice answering questions about your time away from the workforce. Include specific examples of what you did during your break, why you made these choices, and how they can benefit you in the role. Confidently show why you are the most qualified candidate for the job.

Consider a Temporary Job

A temporary job can help you transition back into the workforce after an extended absence. The benefits include:

Flexibility. Choose assignments and work hours that fit with your preferences and schedule.
Financial stability. Earn income while searching for a permanent job.
Skill development. Enhance your skill set and experiences in diverse industries.
Resume building. Short-term jobs demonstrate a strong work ethic.
Networking. Meet colleagues, coworkers, managers, human resources professionals, and executives who can support your career path.
Career exploration. Try out different roles and industries to determine which align with your goals and interests.
Potential for a permanent job. Performing your best and blending with the culture can lead to a full-time job offer.

Partner with a Staffing Agency

Reentering the workforce after a break can be easier with an advocate. Contact your local PrideStaff office to include a recruiter in your job search.

Tips for Explaining a Resume Gap

How to Answer: “Why Haven’t You Been Working?”