They say a career comeback is like riding a bike—you never really forget how to do it. But let’s be real: sometimes that bike is rusty, the tires are flat, and you’re desperately Googling “how to ride a bike” just to make sure you don’t fall flat on your face (and you won’t).
Maybe you took a break to raise kids, travel the world, or just survive in a society that somehow expects us to have a five-year plan when we can barely plan what’s for dinner. Whatever your reason for stepping away, the important thing is—you’re back, baby! And you’re ready to reclaim your place in the workforce (preferably with better coffee and less drama than last time).
But how do you make the transition from “formerly employed” to “hot commodity” without breaking a sweat (or at least without anyone seeing you sweat)? Don’t worry—I’ve got the inside scoop on making your career comeback as smooth as your LinkedIn bio makes it sound.
#1: Leverage Technology
Even if you feel like your tech skills are rusty, you don’t have to be tech-savvy to use modern technological tools effectively. The trick is knowing where to start and gaining the courage to take that first step.
- Job Search Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor allow you to easily customize searches by location, industry, and even flexible work arrangements. Spend a few minutes each day browsing postings that fit your schedule.
- AI-Powered Resume Crafting: Tools like Canva’s AI Resume Builder streamline the process with easy templates that are made for us non-graphic designer folks (seriously, using Canva is a dream). They also help highlight your skills while keeping things professional.
- Company Research: Use Google Reviews or websites like Comparably which give insights into a company’s culture. These free resources will help you save precious time because you won’t be applying to companies that are not aligned with your core values and non-negotiables.
Accelerate Your Career
#2: Refresh Your Skills
Updating old skills won’t cost you a fortune. In many cases, you won’t have to get a whole new degree to be marketable for your career comeback. Reskilling often involves taking just a few courses or getting a new career certification. It’s also easier now to take continuing education courses and obtain training and certifications thanks to online learning courses and platforms.
- Free Online Courses: Platforms such as Coursera or edX offer free courses in everything from project management basics to Excel spreadsheets.
- Community Resources: Libraries often host workshops or provide access to valuable resources free of charge – an underrated gem many forget!
- Volunteer Opportunities: Helping out at school events or non-profits can translate directly into real-world experience for resumes (think event planning or budget management).
This approach isn’t just affordable; it’s also manageable when squeezed in between school drop-offs and pick ups!
#3: Make Connections Online
Networking doesn’t have to mean attending formal events in business suits. You can connect with professionals from the comfort of your home thanks to online networking events, making this part of your career comeback easy and comfortable (yes, you can even wear your bunny slippers)!
- Parenting Groups: Join online communities for parents on Facebook or Meetup. Many group members share career advice or know about job openings. I’m personally a member of mom’s groups and I see parents post all the time about seeking help finding flexible work. These groups are truly a goldmine of opportunities!
- LinkedIn Activity: Join groups. These can be alumni groups or groups related to your targeted field, among many more. But here’s where many job seekers falter. They join a group and then just sit there and wait for things to happen. Don’t let this be you. You’ve got to engage with people in the groups. Comment on and like people’s posts. Share articles. Reach out to professionals who are doing cool things in their careers that inspire you. If you don’t put yourself out there, you will get very little in return.
- Skill-Specific Forums: Platforms like Reddit or niche Facebook groups cater to various professions – perfect for asking questions, gaining insights, or forming new connections.
Although these strategies involve networking online, you can and should try to meet up with folks in person as well. Nothing beats a face-to-face conversation (and you also can’t beat finding a good excuse to get out of the house and grab a delicious cappuccino – just sayin’)!
#4: Bridge Employment Gaps
Worried about explaining gaps? That’s probably the most common fear for career comebackers (is that even a word?!). Here’s the important thing to remember: employers are more understanding now more than ever when it comes to life circumstances like taking time away to parent or care for loved ones. I suppose we have the pandemic to thank for that as well. Most employers have also had to take time away or have worked remotely in the last several years.
Here’s what you can do to close the gaps:
- Focus on Transferable Skills: Think of multitasking, time management, and problem-solving gained through parenting – they’re incredibly valuable! Frame these experiences professionally during interviews. Study the job posting carefully and make a connection with skills the employer is seeking with skills you’ve gained while out of the workforce.
- Prepare Talking Points: Practice concise responses that show confidence in how you used your time away productively (e.g., volunteering or learning). This preparation ensures you’ll avoid stumbling over words mid-interview.
- Optimize Your Resume First: AI-powered resume crafting tools make it easier than ever to emphasize strengths with clean and attractive formatting – even with employment gaps included.
You don’t need perfect answers; just authentic ones paired with proof that you’re ready for a kick-butt career comeback!
In Summary
Rejoining the workforce isn’t just about finding a job – it’s about creating a fulfilling and sustainable path forward. Whether you’re updating your skills, leveraging AI-powered tools for resume crafting, or building meaningful connections online, each one brings you one significant step closer to success.
You’ve already mastered juggling family life; now it’s time to apply that resilience and adaptability toward professional growth. Take it one action at a time – your first step starts today!
