Preparing To Return
If you've been out of work for some time, whatever the reason, the thought of going back to work can be exciting - and daunting.
Take time to think about what you would like to do. Should you go back into the field you worked in before, or is it time for a complete change? Either way, remember that during your career break you may well have developed new skills, or built on others. Also there may be some new skills that you need to acquire. For instance, what about up-to-date computing skills? These are useful in most roles.
Recognise your skills
If you spent your career break caring for others, you will have developed strong interpersonal skills, such as the ability to care, listen, and interpret other's needs.
Or you may have developed new interests and passions which could lead you into new career avenues. It pays to consider what you have enjoyed doing during your career break and what you have achieved, as this can provide fresh insight into what role you would be interested in and good at. To help you, take our .
Think about what you are like, as well as what you like
Being happy in your job ensures you will be successful in it. Finding a role that suits you is half the battle. Take our quick to help you discover what you are like and to point you in the direction of a suitable career - and the right Home Learning College course to help you enter it.
Identify areas for development
Things may well have changed during your career break. Ways of working, legislation, basic computing skills - they are all frequently updated. So be honest with yourself. Have you managed to keep up with developments, or do you need to think about re-training?
Talk to friends and colleagues in the industry to find out what's new and different - and research online or read the trade press to get up to speed on all that's changed in the industry while you've been away.
Prepare for an interview
Be prepared to talk about your time off. Your career break is not something that you can or should hide! Talk about what skills and experience you have developed during this time. And be confident, because if your gap in employment worries you this will come across in an interview. Clearly and concisely state your reasons for taking a break and then move on to talk about what you can offer. Don't get stuck on explaining why you haven't been working.
Remember, it is not uncommon to have a career break, so don't let it stop you from getting into your next role.