There are many stages in people’s lives when a career break is necessary, but when it’s time to head back, it can be a daunting experience. From technology to processes, everything is constantly changing and what was once something you knew like the back of your hand, might now be completely alien to you.
The policies, tasks and systems you were used to may be outdated and the equipment may even have been replaced. Not only will the job be different, your ex-colleagues may have moved onto new job roles and the management changed.
Everyone wants the transition back into working life to be a smooth one with as little obstacles and stress as possible. So how can you take steps to ensure it is?
Meet up with old colleagues
Arrange to meet up with old friends and colleagues to find out what they’re up to and discuss the workplace. This will remind you of your career focused self and help boost your confidence and ease the nerves about returning. You may pick up some new useful contacts or find out about new staff you will meet and if there are any upcoming opportunities you can put yourself forward for.
Can you do any learning from home?
It’s worth finding out if there have been any major changes in the workplace and if there has been, can you research these changes at home? Going back to work knowing what’s to come and not being completely blind to change will help to smoothly bridge the gap. Technology and processes are always changing, so even if you can carry out a small amount of research, it will make the process of returning a lot less daunting.
Don’t doubt yourself and return with confidence
Even if you’re faking it a little, return with your game face on and be ready for change, but remember the strengths you bring to the role. If you could do your job well before your break, there is no reason you can’t now with some self-belief and confidence. You may even have new skills and attributes gained from your break that you don’t realise!
Keep connected and find out about the business
Before returning, it’s worth researching your workplace so you don’t feel completely out of touch. Find out what’s going on in your industry and contact colleagues online to ask if there are any changes you should know about.
It’s important to remember that when you return to work after a long break, your employer will not be expecting you to adapt instantly. They know you have been on a break and will be there to help you slide back into your role smoothly, providing any training that you may need. These tips are simply ways in which you can make the process that little bit easier on yourself. It’s all about balancing you work, life and well-being to ensure when you return to work, you feel as comfortable as possible.
For further advice regarding returning to work or the job opportunities within the accountancy profession, please contact Justin Barber at Barber McLelland on 0114 279 2843 or email justin@bmrecruitment.co.uk