Experts from the Work.ua portal explain how to look for a job after a career break caused by maternity leave, war, relocation or caring for relatives.
Initial steps after a break
Returning to work usually starts with updating your CV, improving English or taking courses, but in practice the process is more complex. The source gives examples of reasons for the break: the birth of a child, the full-scale war, evacuation, loss of a job, relocation, caring for children or elderly parents or the closure of your own business.
The first question you should ask yourself is: “What kind of job do I want to return to now?”. Returning does not necessarily mean going back to the same lifestyle or position you had before the break.
Skills audit and choosing training
Experts advise starting by describing your previous experience and skills: which tasks you performed, what you were responsible for and what results you achieved. Five or ten years of experience do not disappear because of a break, but it is worth highlighting what remains relevant today.
You do not need to take dozens of courses in a row: it is better to analyse job ads and identify 3−5 skills that are missing for the desired job. Training should close the specific gap between what you can do and what is required for the position you are applying for.
Job-search conditions and employment options
The search plan should take into account real circumstances: a work schedule that considers a small child, living abroad or other limitations. Instead of immediately asking former colleagues for work, you can turn to someone you trust and ask what has changed in the field and which skills are most needed now.
Returning is not necessarily a step backwards: you can change profession, start your own business or begin with intermediate work formats. Possible intermediate options include:
- part-time
- freelance
- consulting
- short contract
- internship
- project work
