Whether it’s planned, such as time off to raise children, or unplanned, such as a protracted period of post-layoff unemployment, a career gap can throw off your professional game. Getting back to work can be daunting, especially when you look around and realize how much has changed in your absence. But confidence is the key to success. Here are a few tips to help you realize just how much you have to offer.
Set SMART Goals
Getting back into the workforce doesn’t start with landing your dream job. Instead, you’ll want to follow a series of SMART goals:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Relevant
- Time-Bound
For example, you might give yourself one week to revise your resume, or pledge to send out 10 resumes per week for a month. The idea is to take small, manageable steps that you can be successful in achieving. Over time, they will build on each other to help you reach your destination.
List What You Have to Offer
Put a positive spin on your time away from the workforce. Are you refreshed? Rejuvenated? Hungry to learn something new? Eager to dive in and get started? Did you learn something valuable about yourself during your career gap? You can ultimately turn these into talking points to discuss during job interviews, but for now, take a moment to appreciate what you can offer a new employer.
Find a Mentor
Connecting with a mentor can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Ideally, this will be someone who is currently successful in the field you hope to enter. A mentor’s role is part coach and part cheerleader, which may be exactly what you need to boost your new career search.
Document the Experience
Consider keeping a journal dedicated to your post-career gap job search. List your successes, no matter how small. Reflect on why you’re reentering the workforce at this time and what you learned during your break. Get out your feelings, both positive and negative, on the pages. Over time, you can return to the journal to see how far you’ve come.
Ready for a New Position?
If you’re ready to jumpstart your career, Pirate Staffing can help. Take a look at our open opportunities or simply submit your resume today!