Returners, it can be tough - don’t give up!

Job loss and economic hardship are two of the biggest challenges in life. In our current environment, they are common. For any of you who are seeking to “return” and need a little inspiration today, I am here for you. 

In 2009, my husband lost his job. With three kids at home, I decided to return to work. I’d been home for more than 10 years.  

My journey had some challenging patches, however, I’m now experiencing a very satisfying career. When I returned to work in late 2009, I had family support. My boys were even excited. This made it easier for me to pursue my career again. That was the easy part. The bigger challenge was overcoming the doubters who asked questions about my relevancy, ability to lead, and technical competence. 

Along the way, my breaks came from trusted family friends and my established network. My journey back began with what I call my “career climbing wall.” Sacrifice and flexibility allowed me to get my first opportunity and I made the most of it. After a year of part-time back office administration, a CFO friend asked if I would be open to a temporary position as an executive assistant (EA). Was it my dream job? No. But I knew I could do anything for seven months. I took the opportunity and jumped back into the corporate world. One day, I hoped I’d be doing what I love most: lead people and an HR function. 

Shortly after I joined as an EA, an HR opportunity became available within the company. I got the job and  was hired full time. One thing that helped me get my HR-stride back was that I approached everything with curiosity and a willingness to learn.  I realized that all my time at home wasn’t a complete pause in my career. During my parenting years, I had developed skills that were transferable in my current working environment: leadership, humility, and confidence when handling tricky people situations. As a mom of three boys, I used these skills daily!

After two years, IBM acquired the company. I was tasked to support IBM's M&A team, join our company’s leadership team, and lead our HR function. Quickly, I learned the art and science of integrating two companies on all things people and culture. I relied heavily on my innate leadership style and skills at pattern recognition. It was an amazing opportunity. (If you had a chance to read my first blog, you’ll remember, while at Lightwave Electronics, I had my first tour of duty as an HR leader.) Now I had a new “tool” in my toolkit: acquisition and integration work. It was a milestone for me;  People stopped asking me,  “Why are you relevant?” and “Why should we hire you?” I developed additional power skills that differentiated me from other leaders!

With faith, persistence and hard work, I became an accomplished “returner.” I was, once again, an executive leading the people function. I’m grateful I had patience and support while I pursued the right opportunity. 

My biggest accomplishment? I didn’t lose sight of my personal guiding principles and authentic self. I was willing to accept a different role than I first envisioned, focusing on finding the right environment and supportive leaders. Once I was in the door, people noticed my capabilities. So, my advise to you, even during a really challenging time, don’t give up! 

Pro tips and key learnings: 

Stay focused on your plan and goal 

Know yourself well and don’t compromise on your guiding principles

Lean into your network, they can and want to open doors and support your return 

Don’t let “naysayers” bring you down, surround yourself with “cheerleaders”

If you have others that depend on you, prepare them for the transition. In my case, I had to invest in family change management. 

Character Building: 

Be agile, adaptable, open minded, collaborative, humble, and discriminating in your choices

My Leadership Style: 

Treat people in an empathetic, respectful and fair way. Care deeply and challenge directly.  Have a “strong back and kind front”.

Books of Influence: The Advantage, Give and Take, Dare to Lead, Mindset 

Operational best practices: Have a solid story for your “career” gap. Maintain your network while you step out. 

Bottom line: Remain flexible, persistent, optimistic and use discernment. Surround yourself with people that lift you up and believe in you.

Next up: Stepping out of corporate and starting my own business. Was it a smart decision during a global pandemic? Stay tuned about this decision and what I’m discovering!