7 Tips for Women Returning to Work After a Career Gap

Many women take career breaks for various reasons—raising children, caring for aging parents, or dealing with personal health challenges. However, when they decide to return to the workforce, they may face challenges due to the gap in their employment history. While re-entering the job market after an absence may feel daunting, it’s entirely possible to successfully make the transition. By preparing properly and embracing the right strategies, you can position yourself for success. Here are seven practical tips for women returning to work after a career gap.

Companies Are Recognizing the Need for Re-Entry Programs

Many companies have started to recognize the importance of offering re-entry programs or “returnships.” These initiatives, such as those offered by IBM, allow women to rejoin the workforce through temporary internships designed to ease the transition back to full-time employment. These programs help women update their skills and gain experience in a supportive environment. While not every woman will have access to such programs, their growing popularity signals that businesses are starting to value the skills and perspectives that women who took career breaks bring to the table.

That said, most women will not have access to formal re-entry programs. But with some preparation, you can still confidently return to the workforce. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

Tip 1: Be Honest About the Career Gap

When re-entering the workforce, it's important to be upfront about the career gap. You're not alone in having taken a break, and there’s no need to hide or apologize for it. Many people leave their jobs for various reasons, whether it’s for childcare, taking a sabbatical, or caring for a loved one. During the interview, it's okay to explain the gap, but do so with confidence and a positive spin.

For instance, if you took time off to care for young children, explain how this allowed you to focus on your family and that you're now ready to return to the workforce. If you were laid off but used the time to upskill or volunteer, mention that experience. By focusing on the positive aspects of your career gap, you'll demonstrate that you used the time wisely and are now more prepared than ever to contribute to the workplace.

Tip 2: Convey Confidence

Don’t apologize for your career gap. Confidence is key when returning to work after time off. The more confident you are, the more likely your potential employer will be to see your value. Taking time off for personal or family reasons is admirable and shows your commitment to your family, but it doesn’t detract from your qualifications. If you’re confident in your abilities and the experience you bring, you’ll leave a lasting positive impression on potential employers.

Remember, the fact that you’re returning to the workforce shows initiative and determination. If an employer judges you harshly for taking time off, perhaps that’s not a company you want to work for in the long run. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t let doubts cloud your confidence.

Tip 3: Rethink Your Resume

One of the most effective ways to address a career gap is by revamping your resume. Your resume should highlight your strengths, experience, and accomplishments during the gap. Focus on any skills or certifications you acquired during this time. Did you take a course? Volunteer? Freelance? These are valuable experiences that you should feature prominently on your resume.

You should also rethink the format of your resume. Instead of using a traditional chronological format, consider using a functional or skills-based format, which focuses on your abilities rather than the specific timeline of your work history. The key is to present your experience in a way that highlights your strengths without overemphasizing the gap. In addition, modern resume designs can help you stand out from the competition. Research current resume trends to make sure yours aligns with what hiring managers are looking for.

Tip 4: Prepare for Your Interviews

The landscape of most industries can change rapidly, and a lot can happen in just a few months or years. If you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, it’s crucial to do your homework to ensure you're up to speed on the latest industry trends, tools, and best practices. This will help you avoid feeling out of touch during interviews.

To prepare, look for common interview questions in your field and practice your responses. Reviewing job postings and analyzing the qualifications required for roles you're interested in will also give you a clearer picture of where your skills align and where you may need to brush up. A solid understanding of industry changes and current demands will give you the confidence to ace your interview and show potential employers that you’re serious about your return to work.

Tip 5: Reach Out to and Rebuild Your Network

If you’ve been away from the workforce for a while, there’s a good chance that you haven’t been keeping up with your professional network. Now is the perfect time to reconnect. Start by reaching out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry connections to let them know you’re re-entering the job market. Rebuilding your network not only provides valuable contacts but can also uncover potential job opportunities.

Social media platforms like LinkedIn are great tools for networking. Begin following industry leaders, engage in relevant discussions, and join professional groups. Attend conferences or workshops to expand your network and stay informed about industry trends. Networking is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities and stay engaged in your field.

Tip 6: Update Your Wardrobe

While it’s unfortunate that appearances can still matter in professional settings, presenting yourself well can make a significant difference. A professional, updated wardrobe shows that you’re taking the job search seriously and helps you feel more confident during interviews. You don’t need to buy an entirely new wardrobe, but investing in one or two key professional outfits will help you make a strong first impression.

Make sure your clothing is neat, fits well, and reflects the professional culture of the industry you’re pursuing. Whether you’re interviewing for a corporate position or a creative role, dressing appropriately will help you feel more confident and ready to take on the challenges of re-entering the workforce.

Tip 7: Show You’re Serious with a Certification

If you’ve been away from the workforce for a while, you may need to upskill or learn new technologies to catch up with changes in your industry. Earning a certification in a relevant field shows that you're proactive about your professional development and are serious about staying current with industry trends.

Certifications can give you an edge over other candidates who may not have a career gap but haven’t updated their skills. Whether it’s digital marketing, project management, IT, or another field, a certification will not only boost your knowledge but also increase your employability.

Conclusion

Returning to work after a career gap can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can make the transition smoothly and successfully. Be honest and confident about your gap, update your resume, build your network, and stay current with industry trends. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to securing the job you deserve and taking the next step in your career.