How to Return to Work After a Career Break

Whether you’ve been out of the workplace for months or years, the thought of restarting your career can be daunting. But if you plan carefully and maintain a positive mindset, it could lead to opportunities that you never even dreamed of.

In fact, you can use a career break to strengthen your competencies, renew your energy and try on new career options.

 

Decide what you want to do

 

Another essential strategy is to identify your strengths and what brings you joy. Then find career opportunities that fall at the intersection of what you enjoy and are good at.

 

Prepare to explain your career break

 

Whether in a cover letter or interview, it’s important to consider how you explain your career break to employers. Whatever your reason for taking a break, try to keep the explanation honest but brief and confident. Then refocus the conversation on your past accomplishments and work history.

 

Prepare in advance

 

Research each company you apply to and confirm that its vision and values align with yours. Afterwards, practice for the interview because the more you invest in preparing upfront, the more confident you will be when meeting with the hiring manager.