I’ve been back in the workforce for a few years now! Where did the time go? One minute I was agonising about what returning to work; what would it mean to me and my family? What type of job should I look for. Now, I feel I can barely remember being at home. It’s took me roughly two years of stopping and starting the job hunt … enter corona etc. Then, I finally found a post that didn’t disrupt our family life. It was never my plan to be a stay at home mum and certainly not for 9 years. What I’d say to any mother returning to work from maternity leave, if working full-time no longer suits you, speak to someone get advice from HR. Don’t assume leaving is your is the only option. Are you currently on a career break? Here are five things you should do when you are a relauncher.
Stay Connected
As I said earlier, I never planned to stay at home for nine years. Circumstances along the way made it necessary, one of which was the cost of childcare. You may plan to take a short break but then you have to lengthen it. Then, again your break may turn out to be shorter than originally planned. Whatever the situation, it’s useful to keep in touch with work colleagues.
Your friends/colleagues can keep you in the loop with what’s happening in your field. Additionally, you may need a reference from your last place of employment. They can help you with obtaining one.
Keep Up To Date
Following on from staying connected, it’s important to keep up to date with relevant software packages and technology in your field. When you are on your break, it may tricky to do so. However, when you are ready to return to work, you have to refresh your knowledge with software, apps and possibly social media platforms to be ready for the job hunt.
YouTube and online courses will be your friend when trying to update knowledge. On the professional networking site LinkedIn, not only can you create a profile and begin job hunting BUT you can build your work network AND find courses.
Volunteer
Volunteering your time to a cause or organisation that interests you is quite fulfilling. It’s a lovely way to have ‘grown-up’ time and conversations, as well as boast your self-esteem. Best of all, you are likely to gain transferable skills which you can include on your resume. When you are ready to return to work, it may be possible to obtain a recommendation from your supervisor,
Who knows you may even find that you are happy in the organisation and find employment there or one like it.
Self-Care
Not matter what your plans are, you must be fit and ready to act on them. Never under estimate the importance self-care, especially, if you are returning as a mature employee. If you are a woman, you may be starting to experience menopause symptoms you need to manage. No matter how many years you are at home, work on being healthy and mentally prepared for your return to the job market
Be mindful, even in your role at home, you cannot look after anyone or anything if all isn’t well with you.
Relauncher Must Get Social
As you prepare yourself to return to the job market, it’s time to network. You can network in face to face or online. I mentioned LinkedIn earlier. If you already have a profile, it’s time to update it.
In terms of face to face networking, look out for job fairs. Job fairs have a wealth of information. You can assess what type of jobs are available in your area. There may be an opportunity to get advice on how to improve your CV and tips on other places to search for employment.
Lastly, don’t forget your friends from your previous place of work. Word of mouth is always a good way to find things out. Set up a coffee date and a chat, share your plans. Ask for advice. You never know, they may be the people to help.
Conclusion
I’ve shared with you what worked for me as a relauncher Honestly, I’m still not up to scratch on all the tech but I learn every day. As long as there is life, there is an opportunity to learn, so go easy on yourself.
Are you a launcher? How long have you been a stay at home mum? What are you most looking forward to, when you return to the work?
Comment below, I would love to hear from you.
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