There are a lot of life circumstances that might lead to a
lengthy career break. Relocation, focusing on education, having children, or a
family emergency may have diverted your priorities for a while. When you’re
finally ready to get back in the game, you might feel overwhelmed by the
prospect of jumping in with both feet. When you’re sure the time is right,
there are a few things you can do to put yourself in the optimum position to see
career success.
1. Decide What You Want to Do
Do you want to return to your old line of work, or are your
passions driving you in another direction? Even if you were an office worker
for ten years, it might not feel right to be an office worker for ten more. If
you aren’t resuming your previous line of work, you need to think about what
you do next. If you feel that something
like a skilled trade is more your calling, you might need to update your
education before you start looking for positions.
2. Update Your Resume
It’s going to be hard to secure a position with the same
resume you used years ago. The recruiting process has changed, and the people
reviewing your resume will be looking for different things. Keep your resume
short and to the point. Make your cover letter snappy and direct. Most
importantly, tell the truth. Shorter resumes are most likely to be read in
their entirety, so make sure you’re showcasing experiences that are relevant to
the job you’ll be applying for.
3. Create a Job Search Schedule
It’s time to get back into some sort of routine. One of the
best ways to stay on track with your job search is to develop a job search
schedule. How long will you spend each weekday looking for a job? How will you
divide that time between emailing, checking your professional social media
accounts, browsing job boards, and submitting applications? This will help you measure
your progress, and it will also make your transition back to work easier.
You’ll be used to adhering to a schedule.
4. Start Networking
The best way to get informed and meet connections is through
networking. Every industry has its own networking events, and you might have
some near you if you’re willing to travel. If you can’t find anything within a
reasonable distance, you
can always virtually network through blogs and specialty groups. As long as
you keep checking in and introduce yourself to as many people as possible,
you’ll be assuring your name stays fresh in people’s minds.
5. Build Your Confidence In Yourself
An interview is your opportunity to make a great first
impression and sell your skills to someone who may be your employer for years
to come. Buy yourself a business casual interview outfit that makes you feel
both comfortable and powerful. Practice your answers
to interview questions. Remind yourself that your career skills have landed
you a job in the past, and brush up on them to renew their strength. If you want
other people to feel good about you, you need to feel good about yourself.
Confidence is your best tool in your job search, and it’s something every
employer will appreciate.
Even if it takes you a while to land the job you want, don’t
feel discouraged or give up. Some industries are highly competitive, and they’d be just as competitive if you didn’t have a gap
in your resume. Stay focused and determined, and you’ll get what you need.
Author’s Bio:
An experienced business and careers blogger, Sarah Davies
enjoys writing about topics connected to job opportunities and
self-improvement. Currently writing for Open Colleges, Sarah might often be found sharing her tips with
experts from numerous niches. Follow her on @sarah_davies_au.
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