Tips for returning to the workforce

CareerMay 26, 2022 09:58

Greater Flexibility for employees needed
A new LinkedIn survey revealed that 54 percent of women want more flexibility in their work, but fear the stigma that comes with it. 72 percent of women also said that it would be helpful if their employers gave them the option to work remotely fully. 62 percent said that they have left a job or considered leaving one as there were no flexible working policies. 31 percent are concerned about pay cuts while 28 percent worry that there is a misperception of them not working as hard if they prefer flexible work.

70 percent of women have taken a career break to figure out their next career move, burnout, as well as parental and caregiving responsibilities. However, many fear that taking a career break would limit their career opportunities. However, 93 percent of organisations surveyed are now more open to flexible working for their employees since the pandemic started. Upon improving work flexibility policies, productivity levels have increased (40 percent), employee retention rates have improved (36 percent) and brand image has strengthened (36 percent). In particular, 59 percent of employers are starting to see that candidates who have taken a career break may be an untapped talent pool. 55 percent of employers agree that those returning from a career break have gained valuable soft skills such as resilience, time management, problem-solving, creative thinking and patience.


Tips for returning to the workforce
Returning to the workforce after a career break could be daunting at first. However, as mentioned in the survey above, employers are now more open to welcoming candidates who have previously taken career breaks for various reasons. Here are some tips to boost your chances of getting hired, according to Straits Times.

1) Manage your expectations
You may need to take a pay cut when you return if you were away from work for a long period. Check the demands of the job and company before applying as not all jobs offer the degree of flexibility you want. Focus on your willingness to learn or relearn, your long-term plan and how it fits the company’s goals and your ability to keep up with technology changes to highlight your potential to your interviewers.
You may also consider taking up part-time gigs with lower commitment levels and expectations to gradually ease back into the workforce. There are options such as returnships which are work-trial programmes with more support for those who have been out of the workforce for some time and this could lead to a permanent role.

2) Strengthen your skills and update your resume
Research, identify and learn the new skills required for the job you have in mind. Take on refresher courses if you are hoping to re-enter the same job function. Do volunteer work or freelance projects to gain experience and skills or take courses specific to an industry or job function. Plan and update your skills at least 6-8 months before your job search. Speak to a career coach to reassess your skills and align them with new professional goals.
Explain the employment gap in your resume and highlight the new skills you have acquired during your unemployment. Update your LinkedIn profile and ensure that your work experience is visible to the public as many recruiters now source candidates online.

3) Reach out to your network
Getting someone from within an organisation to refer you would be an advantage. Reconnect with former managers and ask for a letter of recommendation to boost your chances of getting hired. Use LinkedIn to build meaningful connections with thought leaders in the industry and grow your network by attending events by professional associations, trade associations and business chambers.


Do you have other tips on returning to the workforce after a career break?