Getting back into the workforce after an extended period of absence can be a daunting and tricky task. Maybe you took time off to raise your kids, go back to school or care for an aging parent. Whatever the reason is, we have a couple of tips to help your transition go smoother.
Update Your Resume
Chances are, you haven't updated this since the last time you looked for a job. Besides making sure your past positions are up to date, think about adding things that you did during your time away from the workforce, like volunteering or heading up the school PTA. During this time, come up with a list of things you can talk about when a potential employer asks you about your resume gaps, even if they're less than resume worthy.
Get on Social
If you haven’t already created a LinkedIn page, now’s the perfect time to make one. These days, depending on your industry, most people have a LinkedIn page and it’ll give you some extra insight into your industry. This will allow you an easy way to connect with your contacts and others that can help you in your job search. Another great thing you can use social media for is to keep up on the industry news that you may have missed during your time away.
Reach Out to Peers from Your Past Jobs
Reach out to those who you have an established professional relationship with and let them know that you're back in the job market. Not only will these people be good potential references, but they may know about other job opportunities that you otherwise wouldn't know about.
Practice Your Interview
Interviewing is a skill that all of us could use a little practice on before our next big interview. Whether it’s been a year or 15 years since your last interview, a mock interview can do wonders for calming your nerves and nail down your go-to answers. Try looking up common interview questions and get a friend to conduct a mock interview with you. Another great options is to conduct a few informational interviews. Not only will this give you some practice without the stress of a job on the line, but it will also get you in the persons mind for future positions they may be hiring for.
Consider Contacting a Staffing Agency
Reaching out to an agency can be just the thing to get your foot in the door and get you into the workforce again. By working with one, you'll gain insights into things that may have changed in your time away and access to jobs you won't find posted on online job boards. Here at QPS we can help you find the right fit for the next chapter in your life.
Jumping back into the workforce after a hiatus can be a scary thought but with a little preparation you can make it a positive experience. What's the best advice you've ever gotten about re-entering the workforce after a period away?