​Taking a career break is a common and often necessary decision, whether for family, health, travel, education, or personal growth. However, returning to the workforce after a period away can be a daunting prospect. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can successfully re-enter your chosen field or even pivot to a new one. This guide will take you through the best practices for making your return to work as smooth and successful as possible.

1. Reflect on Your Career Goals

Start by assessing what you want from your next role. Your career break may have given you a fresh perspective on your interests and values, which can guide your job search. Consider the following questions:

• Do you want to return to your previous career path, or are you open to exploring new opportunities?

• What are your priorities now in terms of work-life balance, salary, job satisfaction, and location?

• Are there any industries that have piqued your interest during your break?

Having clarity about your goals will help you focus your job search and target roles that genuinely align with your skills and interests.

2. Address Any Skill Gaps

Depending on how long you’ve been away, your industry may have evolved, with new tools, techniques, or regulations coming into play. To ensure you are competitive:

• Research industry trends to understand what skills are in demand.

• Take online courses or attend workshops to refresh your knowledge. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or industry-specific webinars can be invaluable.

• Consider learning certifications that are recognised in your field. This can be especially useful in technical industries like engineering, planning or surveying.

• Volunteer or take on freelance work to gain recent experience, which can help bridge the gap on your CV.

Keeping your skills up to date will boost your confidence and make you a more attractive candidate.

3. Revamp Your CV and Online Presence

Your CV is your first impression, so it must be polished, up-to-date, and tailored to the roles you’re applying for. Here’s how to make it stand out:

• Be honest about your career break. Instead of hiding it, create a dedicated section in your CV where you can explain what you did during this time, especially if you gained transferable skills.

• Highlight skills developed during your break, such as project management, budgeting, communication, or problem-solving.

• Update your LinkedIn profile with a clear headline and summary that reflect your current career goals. Engage with industry content, join relevant groups, and connect with professionals in your field. Ask for LinkedIn recommendations from former colleagues, clients, or mentors to enhance your credibility.

4. Practise Your Interview Skills

It’s natural to feel nervous about job interviews after a break, but preparation is the key to confidence.

• Practise your responses to common interview questions, especially those that may address your career gap. Frame the break as a positive experience and highlight any skills you developed.

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give clear examples of your achievements.

• Conduct mock interviews with a friend or mentor for honest feedback.

• Be ready to discuss your motivation for returning to work, your interest in the role, and how your skills align with the job requirements.

5. Leverage the Support of a Recruiter

OK, so of course we are going to advocate this as recruiters! However, one of the most effective ways to re-enter the workforce is to work with a recruiter. Professional recruitment agencies, like Carrington West, can significantly streamline your job search by:

• Providing insights into the current job market and the most suitable roles for your skills and experience.

• Helping you tailor your CV to attract employers.

• Presenting your profile to hiring managers and advocating on your behalf, reducing the risk of your CV being dismissed due to a career break.

• Offering interview preparation and feedback to improve your performance.

Recruiters have established relationships with employers, which means they can open doors that may be difficult for you to access on your own.

6. Explore Return-to-Work Programmes

Return to work programmes are designed specifically for professionals re-entering the workforce. These programmes, offered by some companies, provide:

• Structured training and upskilling opportunities.

• Mentorship from experienced professionals.

• The chance to rebuild your confidence in a supportive environment.

Research organisations that offer some sort of programme in your industry and consider applying as a stepping stone to full-time employment.

7. Network with Industry Professionals

Networking is a powerful tool, especially when re-entering the workforce. It helps you stay informed about job openings, industry trends, and the latest developments in your field.

• Reconnect with former colleagues and managers. Let them know you’re looking for opportunities and ask for advice.

• Attend industry events, webinars, and workshops to meet new people.

• Join professional associations or LinkedIn groups relevant to your industry.

• Consider finding a mentor who can offer guidance and support during your transition.

Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just asking for job leads.

8. Be Honest and Positive About Your Career Break

One of the biggest concerns for returners is how to explain their career break to potential employers. Honesty is the best policy.

• Be transparent about why you took a break, whether for personal, family, health, or other reasons.

• Avoid apologising for the break, instead, frame it as a period of growth and reflection.

For example:
"I took a two-year break to focus on family responsibilities, which enhanced my multitasking, organisation, and communication skills. I am now excited to bring these skills back into the workforce."

9. Prepare for a Gradual Transition

Re-entering the workforce doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Depending on your circumstances, consider:

• Part-time or flexible roles to ease back into a work routine.

• Temporary or contract positions that can lead to permanent roles.

• Freelance or consulting work to build your experience and confidence.

Starting gradually can help you adjust, hone your skills, and work out what you want from this next stage in your career.

10. Stay Positive and Persistent

Returning to the workforce can be a journey with ups and downs. It may take time to find the right role, but perseverance is key.

• Set realistic goals for your job search, such as applying to a certain number of roles each week.

• Celebrate small achievements, such as completing a course, attending a networking event, or getting a positive response from a recruiter.

• Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a mentor who can encourage you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Re-entering the workforce after a career break is a significant milestone, but it’s also an opportunity for a fresh start. With careful planning, skill enhancement, and the right support, you can navigate this transition with confidence.

At Carrington West, our expert recruiters are here to help you explore your options, connect with suitable employers, and present your profile in the best possible light.