Returning to work after a career break? This can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase resilience, adaptability, and a unique skill set. Here are ten tips I learned from the inspiring book “The Comeback- How Today’s Moms Re-enter the Workplace Successfully, by Cheryl Casone.
1. Strategize Your Comeback
Start by reassessing your career goals. Think about what aligns with your current skills, interests, and lifestyle. Be intentional and strategic about your next move, ensuring it supports the kind of professional and personal life you envision.
2. Own Your Story
Be transparent about your career break without making it the focus of your narrative. Use this opportunity to highlight transferable skills—such as organization, multitasking, and problem-solving—that you’ve honed during your time away from the workplace.
3. Polish Your Resume
HR professionals spend an average of six seconds scanning resumes. Ensure yours is concise, visually appealing, and tailored to highlight the experiences that make you a standout candidate. Emphasize both your professional achievements and any relevant activities you engaged in during your break.
4. Embrace Networking and Learning Opportunities
Don’t let new technologies or workplace dynamics intimidate you. Take advantage of online courses, workplace training programs, or even insights from your kids to get up to speed. Networking within and outside your workplace can also open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable insights.
5. Seek Mentorship from Senior Women
Identify women in leadership who inspire you and reach out to them for guidance. A mentor can provide advice on balancing work and family, navigating challenges, and achieving your career goals while staying true to yourself.
6. Build Your Support Network
It truly takes a village to raise a child. Trust others with childcare responsibilities—be it family, friends, or professional services—and believe that your children will thrive even while you’re at work. This will help ease guilt and allow you to focus on your professional growth.
7. Identify and Leverage Your Skill Set
Every experience, professional or personal, offers a chance to grow. Even roles you may initially consider less significant can demonstrate your maturity, adaptability, and work ethic. Use these as opportunities to shine and make meaningful contributions.
8. Strike a Balance with Colleagues
Full-time work and parenting can leave little room for after-hours networking. Instead, find ways to connect with colleagues during work hours, such as grabbing lunch or coffee. Commit to attending one or two out-of-office events a month to maintain strong workplace relationships.
9. Be Authentic and Confident
Age and experience are advantages—use them. Stay true to your values and let your authenticity set you apart in the workplace. Your professionalism and ability to balance multiple roles are assets that can inspire trust and respect.
10. Be Kind to Yourself
Let go of guilt and focus on your goals. Balancing work and family isn’t about choosing one over the other; it’s about creating a life that honors your ambitions and supports your loved ones. Celebrate the progress you make and take pride in being both a great mom and a successful professional.
Reading this book helped me be confident as a sought new opportunities after pregnancy and taking time to care for my children. What is your biggest lesson learned as a working mom?