Jumpstarting your career after maternity break or sabbatical
As a working woman in India, taking a break from your career to care for your children is not uncommon. In fact, according to a research study conducted by the Genpact Centre for Women's Leadership, by the age of 30, around 50% of working women in India prioritize their children's care over their jobs.
However, returning to work after a maternity break or any extended career break can be exciting and challenging. Restarting your career requires navigating the changing landscape and overcoming various obstacles.
The Struggle for Financial Independence and Growth
Returning to work after a maternity break is a decision that many women face. It is a time when the need for financial independence and personal growth becomes more prominent. Drawing from my own experience, I rejoined the corporate world in 2018 after a maternity break of three years, finding myself contemplating the best path forward.
Deciding to return to work after a break can be challenging, but the right mindset and support can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Navigating the Comeback Journey
When returning to work after a career break, it is crucial to navigate the comeback journey effectively. Negotiating for flexibility, limited travel, and shorter hours to balance work and motherhood is important initially. It is important to communicate your needs and preferences to your employer, ensuring that you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
In my case, I decided to explore different areas, leading to a significant shift in my career from the structured world of Finance to the dynamic field of Human Resources (HR).
Trends in Career Comebacks
The landscape for career comebacks is continually evolving, with more women recognizing the importance of returning to work after a maternity break or any other extended break. According to CareerNet, the percentage of women returning to work post-maternity has increased to 80%, reflecting a growing recognition of the value and potential that professionals bring to the table when returning after a break.
Upskilling for Success
One key aspect of a successful career comeback after a sabbatical is staying current with the latest knowledge and ensuring proficiency in contemporary skill sets. With the increase of Ed-tech companies, digital learning has become mainstream and advantageous for professionals seeking to upgrade their skills and stay relevant. By upskilling, professionals can secure new job opportunities and update their skillsets, making them more competitive in the job market.
A recent report by Great Learning highlights the trend of professionals embracing continuous learning. The report states that 42% of professionals in India upskill to secure a new job, while 7.5% do so to update their skillsets. Multiple female learners have reported the benefits of upskilling, leading to meaningful career outcomes and exceptional salary hikes despite returning from a sabbatical.
Personally, I navigated my career trajectory from Finance to HR in areas such as Finance hiring and leadership recruitment by upskilling in Finance and HR through online courses and training sessions during my extended maternity break.
Embracing Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
In recent years, flexibility and enhanced work-life balance have become significant factors in boosting employee retention and satisfaction levels, particularly for female employees. The increase in remote work and hybrid setups has given women the opportunity to work from anywhere, leading to reduced travel and improved work-life balance. This shift in work culture has opened up opportunities for women to restart their careers without compromising their personal responsibilities.
领英推荐
The Changing Landscape for Second Innings
Returning to work after taking time off, especially after having a child, used to be a challenge. However, things are changing. Nowadays, companies understand the unique perspectives and enthusiasm that professionals returning after a break bring to the table. This shift in mindset is more than just a trend; it's a recognition of the untapped potential in professionals returning after a break.
Supportive Programs and Initiatives and Their Success
To further empower women to return to work, many companies have introduced programs and initiatives to facilitate a smooth transition. Companies like Amazon, Infosys, Dell, TATA, Mashreq, Schneider Electric India, and Paypal, among others, have implemented programs such as Rekindle, Ramp Back program, Returning Mother Program, and Her Second Innings. These programs aim to create opportunities for women on break and provide easy onboarding, flexible work options, training, and other benefits to support women in re-entering the workforce.
The success of returnee programs is evident, with 54% of companies implementing such programs reporting that women returnees thrive in their roles. Additionally, 56% of these companies have experienced an increase in the number of applications from female returnees. These statistics highlight the positive impact that supportive programs and initiatives have on women's career comebacks.
My Journey with Renous
My decision to explore my network and join Renous as an HR professional has been nothing short of exhilarating. This opportunity allowed me to utilize both my financial acumen and HR skills, all while enjoying the flexibility of remote working. This means that I can slowly transition into a full-time career. It's the perfect balance that I've been searching for.
With the company later transitioning into the HR domain, I was offered the opportunity to lead the unit and grow alongside the business. Renous' inclusive and growth mindset has truly propelled my career forward, giving me an opportunity to lead the HR and Content business unit.
Navigating the Job Search
Finding the right job after a career break may require exploration and adaptation. Here are a few tips:
The job market is constantly evolving, and tailoring your search to align with your current lifestyle and goals can increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.
Switching from Finance to HR after taking time off for maternity was indeed a significant but rewarding change for me. Selecting a career that aligns with passion can bring immense fulfillment and advancement in professional life.
Numerous opportunities are available for learning and personal growth; the key is to link what you love with your job, creating a satisfying career path. Rebooting your career after a break is a journey of self-discovery and growth. By reflecting on your experiences, getting ready for the change, and approaching job hunting with determination, you can successfully restart your career after maternity leave.
Disclaimer from Renous
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and do not necessarily reflect the views of our publication. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be considered as professional advice. The reader should always conduct their own research and due diligence before taking any action based on the information provided in this article.