Getting ready to go back to work
Having and caring for young children is a common reason for a career break, but it’s far from the only one. Other scenarios could include:
- caring for a sick parent, family member or dealing with your own illness
- returning to full-time education
- undertaking a volunteer stint
- embracing a long-held passion or hobby
A career break, for whatever reason, can see a re-energised person return. But it might take some thought and planning beforehand to get you in the best shape - mentally and physically - for that first day back.
If it's been a parental leave break, there will also be child care to sort out and possibly a re-evaluation of your work-life balance.
Plus, there could be the chance during any absence of not having kept up with:
- industry trends
- changes within your organisation
- workplace skills and learning
Keeping up to date during a career break
There are several activities you can engage in to ensure you stay abreast of things before returning to work, including:
- following or connecting with industry experts on LinkedIn or other social media
- joining an association or professional body related to your career
- networking at conferences or meetups
- maintaining a relationship with your peers, like attending the occasional social event