Career tips for women returning to work
To help women ease themselves back into work, the Careers Advice Service has worked with occupational psychologist Sherridan Hughes, to develop of plan of action to support them.
Sherridan says: “The job market has changed significantly for women in the last twenty years. We are far more likely to go back to work after having a baby and we are also taking less leave, before and after childbirth. Some of us may feel this is due to financial pressures but others may be seeking to minimise interruptions to their careers.”
Careers coach at the Careers Advice Service, Yvonne Fox-Bibby says: “Whether you’re looking to get back into work or you haven’t made up your mind yet, the Careers Advice Service can help you. That’s why we have developed this six-point plan to help you take those first steps towards getting back into the workplace.”
Tip 1: Be realistic
Honestly assess your situation and understand your true motivations for returning to work to help you make an informed decision
Think about why you want to return to work – are you hungry to climb the corporate ladder, or do you simply want to supplement the family finances?
Consider carefully both the financial and emotional implications surrounding childcare – for example, you may not realise how much you will miss your child, or even end up resenting the carer who is looking after them! – and what arrangements you will need
Tip 2: Time for a change?
Think about whether you want to return to your previous field or place of employment, or try something new.
Are you returning to your former place of work, or are you ready to embrace a different challenge or even a brand new career?
Don’t be put off from exploring new horizons, even if you may be doubting your own abilities after time out from the workplace – you’ll be surprised at what you can do
Tip 3: Network, network, network
Don’t be afraid to talk to those around you about your professional intentions
Use your network of friends, other mothers at your playgroup, and even family members for support, they can all help you keep in touch with what is happening in the workplace
Talking about your plan to return to work and sharing insights with friends and family – who may even know of a job opening – will be a source of inspiration
Tip 4: Learning without earning
Finding the right volunteering opportunity can help you keep your skills relevant whilst giving something back to the community.
Brushing up on your existing skills or training to learn new ones, can give you a real advantage when you start looking for work and will get you noticed by employers
It may not be possible to secure a paid position immediately, but volunteering, retraining, or even securing work experience will all help bolster your CV and, more importantly, boost your confidence
Tip 5: Stay in the loop
Keep as up to date as you can with what is happening in your industry, so you don’t feel out of your depth or out of touch.
Read industry journals and newsletters, attend workshops and keep in touch with workplace changes and trends online to get to grips with what’s happening.
If you know people in your field, such as former colleagues or even your old boss, why not meet them for a coffee; they may well pass on invaluable advice and suggestions.
Tip 6: Don’t underestimate yourself
Although you may not feel confident after time away from the workplace, try to remember all the skills you have developed both at work and beyond.
Don’t feel scared, or even guilty, about going back to work – it is perfectly possible to be a devoted mum AND a successful working woman.
Remember that as a busy mum, you have already been honing skills such as budgeting, time management and even negotiating (with your wilful toddler!)
The Careers Advice Service is open seven days a week from 8am to 10pm. To speak to a Careers Advice Service adviser call 0800 100 900 or visit: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
To watch a video of Yvonne talking through these tips, visit: