How to Smoothly Re-Enter The Job Market After a Career Break

The prospect of re-entering a job market can be quite intimidating. There is the issue of the ever-changing job market that continuously makes it difficult for even the most skilled people to stay up-to-date on trends. There’s always something to learn and improve upon. And when you’ve been on a break from work, your resume can suffer in the process.

However, there are a few things that you can do to make the transition easier for yourself and ultimately increase your chances of being hired.

This is a topic that I have quite a bit of experience with because I've been laid off 3 times. Each time was emotionally difficult but I developed a system to help me get back in the saddle and I quickly found another job. 

After losing a job, you may find yourself experiencing a wide range of emotions from panic to frustration to the fear of an uncertain future.

Remember, that this is completely normal and part of the process. Give yourself time to acknowledge your emotions and then start planning your next move.

Since consistent action leads to results, push yourself towards devising a course of action for yourself. A great way to get yourself focused again is by creating a schedule for yourself. When I was laid off, creating and following a schedule helped me feel and actually be more productive. Just like you would show up for a job working for someone else, you need to show up for yourself. 

A lack of a formal work routine gives you the opportunity to devote more time to personal and professional development projects. Find things you’re passionate about and start pursuing them. It’s a bonus if these pursuits include new skills or hone your current skill set. Use the time to network, look for opportunities to showcase your expertise, and get in touch with colleagues or friends who may know of a vacancy. The point is to keep the momentum going and use the time that you have to be as productive as you can.               

If you leave your job because of medical issues, be prepared to put in some time preparing for your interviews and working through some tactics on how to best communicate your situation to your new potential employer. Remember to be direct and explain why you had to take a medical leave but don’t linger on the subject. Be honest but don’t say more than you need to. There's no need to get into the deals of your illness. 

Shift the focus of the conversation to talking about your experience, skills, expertise, and strengths. Do not speak from a place of defensiveness if your potential employer shows concerns or doubts about hiring you. Answer with absolute calm, acknowledge their concern and again shift the focus back to why you’re the best fit for the position.

Parents who have quit their jobs to stay at home and take care of their kids face particular fears and concerns. There is a fear of being out of touch with the latest trends, being behind in terms of the skills that they possess, and the fear of potential employers dismissing them for younger candidates. While it’s completely normal to think like that, it’s more important for you to shift your focus towards finding out how you want to rejoin the job market and what niche you want to join in.  Answering these questions will provide you with some clarity on the steps you need to take next.

It is easier to rejoin the workforce if you have updated experience, including volunteer work. So, even if you don’t find work right away, find other alternatives that can provide you with networking opportunities, and also look good on your resume. It is also essential to continue learning about your profession as that will help you to polish your talent and skill even when you’re not actively practicing them.

For example, you could take a class relevant to the field that you're interested in and expand your existing knowledge on the subject matter. The point is to keep your mind stimulated even when you’re on a leave. By doing so, you will have an easier time communicating with potential employers because you will be speaking from a place of knowledge and experience. And let’s face it, volunteer work and additional classes never look bad on a resume.

Also, don't underestimate the skills you've gained and honed in your caretaking role! You've had to multi-task, prioritize, and negotiate with (let's face it, often unreasonable) people aka your children or loved ones.

You've had to learn things on the fly and quickly adapt as circumstances changed. Those are skills that are needed in every job. Don't be shy about using those as examples. Believe it or not, if presented in the right way, most people will get it. 

Regardless of the reason why you took the break, re-entering the job market can become significantly easier if you approach it with a proper plan, invest time in learning about your prospective industry, are willing to step off your comfort zone and learn new skills, embrace a beginner’s mindset, don’t be easily discouraged, and keep moving forward.

• Consistent action leads to results. Devise a clear course of action for yourself. 
• Do volunteer work, join an online class, polish your skills, and build your resume.
• Stay in touch with your colleagues and co-workers. Start and continue networking.
• Stay up-to-date with the changing trends of the industry you’re applying to.