Re-entering the workforce can be a challenge no matter what the reason is: volunteering, starting a family, caring for a sick relative or investing in your future by completing a graduate degree. It can be hard to appropriately explain this gap in work history to employers and to emphasise that you still are highly skilled and experienced. However, don’t worry about all of this because you can do it! In this article, we are going to provide women with some tips for re-entering the workforce.
1. Embrace Your Gap
According to LinkedIn, nearly half (49%) of hiring managers say that they would hire a working mother who has taken a career break because she is likely to be hard-working, have strong time management skills and patience. When it comes to addressing your career gap during the job interview process, LinkedIn found that 58% of hiring managers agree that parents should highlight any career gaps they have had on their CV and proactively share the value of taking this time off from their career. Therefore, take the initiative to talk about your career gap during the job interview and use it as an opportunity to emphasise the unique transferable skills you have learned in your new role as a mother.
2. Look for a Company That is Right for You
When hunting for a new job after a career break it is essential to consider the kind of workplace culture and what kind best fits your needs. According to LinkedIn, over 64% of women feel that the biggest obstacle that prevents working mothers from advancing in their careers is down to a non-flexible work schedule. When you are looking for a job or starting a new job, use the interview period as an opportunity to ask the employers questions on the company culture. Ask them if they offer employee resource groups for parents and flexible work schedules. This way, you can discover for yourself whether the company is right for you.
3. Utilise Your Community
It is essential to lean on your community. LinkedIn data discovered that 28% of working mothers look for their company to provide support groups for working parents. This can be key to advancing in your career. An excellent way to find inspiration, a mentor or even a lead to a new opportunity is through your offline and online networks. You can use your network to gain insights and experiences, ask for guidance and build valuable connections.
Conclusion
Transitioning from employee to mother to working mother can be a challenging yet remarkable shift. However, remember that you are not the only one making this daunting transition. If you want to re-enter the workforce, use the tips mentioned above to help you along your way.
Tips for Women Re-entering the Workforce & Trying to Get a Job
