Introduction
“In the ever-changing landscape of the professional world, taking a break from your career is no longer a red flag; it’s a strategic move towards personal and professional growth.”
These words, by renowned career strategist Dr. Emily Turner, encapsulate the transformative shift in organizations’ perception of career breaks when hiring. As a seasoned Leader with over 15 years of experience leading talent teams across 40+ countries, I write this blog for those taking an intended career break or finding themselves unexpectedly in one. I share insights and underscore why embracing career breaks can be a blueprint for professional growth if you so choose.
Also, as one of the biggest worries candidates have in interviews is explaining history gaps in their career, here are some ways to navigate that conversation with some suggestions of what to do during the gap.
Everyone Has Their Own Journey
Before delving into these insights, it’s crucial to acknowledge the common reasons people take breaks in their careers. Life is dynamic, and various factors may lead to a hiatus, including personal, family, health, organizational lay-offs, or even the pursuit of further education. These pauses, once viewed skeptically, are now more commonly recognized by many organizations as opportunities for growth and self-discovery if you position it correctly.
Two People, Different Situations, and Their Approach
Here are real-life examples of two people who (names changed), who for differing reasons, had a gap and examples of how they approached this time.
Example One
Alex – Turning Setbacks into Opportunities (Laid Off)
A seasoned marketing professional, Alex was unexpectedly laid off due to organizational restructuring. Rather than viewing it as a setback, Alex saw it as an opportunity for intentional career growth.
1: Clarifying Career Objectives
- Alex identified skill gaps and areas for professional development.
- Pursued certifications in digital marketing to align with the long-term goal of becoming a digital marketing strategist.
2: Financial Planning
- Assessed financial situations promptly and created a budget for effective financial planning.
- This strategic approach allowed Alex to commit fully to professional development goals during the unexpected career break.
3: Making the Most of the Hiatus
- Leveraged online platforms for skill enhancement, completing data analytics, SEO, and social media marketing courses.
- Actively participated in online marketing forums, connecting with professionals and discovering job opportunities.
4: Preparing to Reenter the Workforce
- Attended webinars and virtual conferences in the marketing domain to stay updated on industry advancements.
- Sought freelance marketing projects to maintain a professional presence and demonstrate continuous engagement in the field.
5: Addressing the Gap in Interviews
- Emphasized the intentional investment in personal and professional growth during interviews.
- Highlighted the skills acquired, certifications earned, and the impact of experiences, positioning Alex as a motivated and resourceful candidate.
Example Two
Morgan: A Voluntary Break with Purpose (Intended Break)
Morgan, an IT project manager, proactively chose to take a voluntary career break to focus on personal development.
1: Clarifying Career Objectives
- Focused on gaining a global perspective and enhancing leadership skills.
- Undertook language courses, attended leadership workshops and volunteered internationally to align with career objectives.
2: Financial Planning
- Established a budget with savings set aside for the voluntary career break.
- Explored various opportunities without financial stress, ensuring economic stability during the hiatus.
3: Making the Most of the Hiatus
- Acquired technical skills through online courses in project management methodologies and emerging technologies.
- Engaged in online communities related to sustainable development, establishing connections that led to involvement in impactful projects.
4: Preparing to Reenter the Workforce
- Attended webinars on sustainable business practices and environmental policies to stay informed about global trends.
- Sought freelance consulting for organizations aligned with sustainable development goals, strengthening Morgan’s resume.
5: Addressing the Gap in Interviews
- Emphasized the intentional pursuit of personal development during the voluntary break.
- Highlighted language proficiency, leadership skills, and hands-on experience gained through international volunteering, positioning Morgan as a well-rounded candidate.
Conclusion: Navigating Career Breaks with Purpose
These examples underscore the transformative power of career breaks. The experiences of Alex and Morgan exemplify how individuals can leverage these periods for growth, skill acquisition, and community contribution.
In conclusion, not all breaks are setbacks, whether experiencing a career break intentionally or unintentionally; it’s about what you do during that time. The key lies in intentional planning, continuous learning, and showcasing the value gained during the break. As professionals reenter the workforce, they can bring enriched skills and perspectives, contributing meaningfully to organizations.
Embrace the break as a blueprint for professional growth, ensuring a purposeful and fulfilling chapter in your career journey. The modern workforce recognizes the value of individuals who approach career breaks with intention, and I encourage you to seize these opportunities for growth and success. Your journey can be a blueprint for career success, showing that intentional actions during breaks can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling future.
I wish you all well in your journey.
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