Taking a career break most certainly doesn’t mean professional suicide. Returning to work is not easy. But it is possible. No matter how long your break was, you still may want to utilize the experience and reverse culture shock, decide your next steps, and reflect upon your career break. Career brake of one year is viewed as an equivalent to a maternity leave
But How?
Carefully analyze your decision to return to work.
- Emphasize broadened worldview
- How break would inform performance and decision making
- How refreshed and renewed you are from the experience
- Better work approach with excitement, enthusiasm and a fresh perspective.
Career breaker should be focused first and foremost on why you are such a perfect fit for the particular position and the company.
3. Update Your Skills
Now that you have a good understanding of your professional skill set, including those skills gained while away from the workforce, determine which ones need a refresh. You might also cosider taking some courses at a local university or through a service like LinkedIn Learning(opens in a new tab) if you’re looking to transition into a new career.
4. Get Tech Savvy
Research any new-to-you technology tools and platforms, as well as updates to standard software programs that are used in your field of choice, and develop a basic-level understanding.. You might consider visiting an online learning site like Coursera(opens in a new tab) for an extensive selection of free online courses.
Career path can take some pretty unexpected twists and turns. Focus on maintaining your professional network, even with only occasional contact.
When the time is right for you to return, draw inspiration and instruction from those who have successfully returned to work before you. If you make the right moves, it could be the start of a wonderful new chapter in your career.
