10 Top Tips for Returning to Work

. . . and the ones you may have missed

Being away from work, for whatever reason, is bound to have changed you. For every anxiety about being out of date and 'out of the loop' try to find something to appreciate about the new abilities you have gained, such as 'managing' children, the resourcefulness that can come from ill-health, a wider, balanced perspective on work life all contribute to our effectiveness at work.

Think about work-life balance

How many hours can you do, if, for example, you have a young family? Think realistically about how pressured the job of your dreams may be. Remember what a major choice this could be for you. It's a moment for you to create the life you would like to live.

CVs

Of course, you are likely to need to update your CV. Think about the story that you want to tell about yourself. Find a way to take pride in the way you have lived your life. This may well lead you to a different structure and presentation of your career.

Research

Identify companies you would like to work for, look out for ads and apply for jobs, and write to every employer you think would be good for you, and vice versa. But also . . .

Keep talking

Get the word out that you are looking to get back into work at every possible opportunity. You never know when a seemingly random connection might lead to something, so talk, talk, talk. Take time to discuss your ideas and plans with as many people as possible - friends to clarify your ideas and build your confidence - and potential employers.

Do you have contacts in an area you would like to work? Ask for meetings; invite them for lunch or a drink. Talk about your plans, hopes and dreams. Sometimes this can be much more engaging, persuasive and effective than sending a CV cold.

Support strategies

You may want to think about creating a peer network to discuss and clarify your plans and to support you during the process of implementing them. Or join one, such as Working Edge!

For more information about Working Edge visit www.workingedge.uk.com