Re-entering the workforce after a long break

After being out of the workforce for a long time, there are some things you can do to prepare for going back.

Starting the job search is daunting for everyone, but particularly when you’ve been out of the game a little while.

1. Stay positive  

Although you may feel up against it, by keeping a positive mind set, you can boost your self-esteem and confidence when getting back to your new or previous job. 

2. Research

Stay up to date by seeing what has been going on in your industry. Are there new skills you could develop? A training course you could do from home? Reach out to old contacts if you can and see if they have tips, or better yet, connections.  

3. Update your resume

Updating your resume can seem like an overwhelming task especially if you feel like you don’t really have anything to add since you’ve been off work. Try and think of anything you’ve done that could be included, such as projects you’ve undertaken, volunteer work you’ve done or any training. 

4. Stay calm

You may feel a sense of disconnect as well as a little bit anxious to go back to work. Re-entering the workforce can be very stressful when you’ve been gone for a while. Stay as calm as you can but if it gets too overwhelming be open with your manager and take it one day at a time. 

5. Accept that you won’t like everyone

When getting back into your job there will no doubt be new people you haven’t met before and may not like. Stay mindful of your emotions, it’s okay to feel annoyed or irritated but acknowledge that feeling, then let it go. You don’t have to engage every time. 

It can be intimidating to go back to work after a long time a way, but hopefully these tips will help!