Have you taken a career break? Have you decided to get back to your career? Do you feel finding a job after a break is a challenging task? Undoubtedly, it is a daunting task. The reasons for the gap might be many, raising a family, traveling, or health conditions. But with the proper strategies, you can grab a good job. All it requires is confidence and never give up attitude. The tips given below will guide you to tackle your emotional barrier and will help you secure a job.
1. Accept your situation
Firstly, accept that your situation is distinct from others. Understand everyone has different career paths. Avoid comparing your career ladder with your ex-colleagues and friends. Job hunt after a gap is indeed a strenuous task. Have confidence and belief in yourself!
2. Identify your niche
In a hurry to find a job, do not make a mistake of choosing a job that doesn’t match your niche. Take time to conduct thorough research and list down your interests and the skills you possess. Think of whether you want to go back to the role you had before or want to try something different. Never secure a job irrelevant to you; this might lead you to change your job frequently. Identify what are your needs, whether it is salary requirements, flexible hours, or anything else. The key point is to stay clear regarding your goals and job.
3. Polish your skills
Once you identify your niche, start working on strengthening your skills. This will make you feel confident before the interviewer. A lot would have changed from when you have left your job. Update yourself with the latest trends in your industry. You can enroll in courses, read blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and attend various events related to your domain.
4. Network
Gone are the days when everything was offline. It is crucial to have your digital presence across professional networking websites. Start connecting with significant people in your industry to make a successful entry. Reach out to your previous colleagues, clients, and friends. Make them aware you are searching for a job.
Your CV communicates everything about you! Make sure you update it. But update it with what? This question might arise in your head. You have to update it with your gap. Do not try to cover up or hide the gap. Be honest and genuine. Explain the reasons for taking a career break. Show up your eagerness of taking up new challenges and tasks. Plus, include the skills that you’ve gained during the break. Do not forget to update your CV on various professional networking sites, too.
8. References and certificates
References from your latter job can make an enormous difference. It will help you establish trustworthiness in front of the employers. Therefore, make sure to secure a certificate of appreciation from prominent people of your past organization.
9. Be confident
It doesn’t matter how long you have taken a break. Getting back to the track is stressful. However, the vital thing is remaining confident. Without confidence, you can never look valuable before your interviewer. If you have doubts about your skills and abilities, then spend time acquiring it. Take feedback from your ex-colleagues, friends, and family about your strengths.
The first impression is the best one. Before you attend the interview equip yourself with the answers to most common questions asked. The definite question that would be posed before you could be “Why did you take a career gap and what did you do with your time?” Other questions could be “Why do you want to work again?”, “How are you unique from other candidates?” Be legitimate with your answer. If you get stuck anywhere take a tiny pause and then continue.
Following these effective tips will surely increment the certainty of obtaining a job. It will guide you to get back to your career ladder with renewed confidence.
