How to Reenter the Workforce After a Career Break

Reflect on What You’ve Gained

Before diving into applications, take a moment to assess your break through a positive lens. You may have gained valuable skills, experiences, or clarity that can strengthen your resume and interviews.

For example:

• Caregiving often develops time management, empathy, and multitasking.

• Education or certification shows commitment to growth.

• Volunteering, freelance work, or side projects can all showcase initiative.

List out anything you’ve done during your time off that could be professionally relevant. This will help you tell a compelling story when asked about your career gap.

Update Your Skills and Knowledge

Industries evolve fast. If you’ve been out of the loop for a while, start by identifying what’s changed in your field. Check job descriptions, industry news, or LinkedIn profiles of professionals in roles you’re targeting.

Then, take action:

• Enroll in online courses through platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or edX.

• Attend webinars, workshops, or local networking events to reconnect with your industry.

• Brush up on tools, software, or trends relevant to your role.

You don’t need to become an expert overnight—just show that you’re engaged, capable, and committed to catching up.

Rework Your Resume With Confidence

A career break doesn’t have to derail your resume. The key is to structure it clearly and confidently, highlighting your strengths and transferable skills.

Tips for crafting a strong post-break resume:

• Use a summary section to spotlight your goals, experience, and what you bring to the table.

• Format your work history in a skills-based (functional) or hybrid resume, especially if your break was long.

• Include any relevant experience during your break (freelance work, certifications, volunteer roles).

• Use clear job titles and strong action verbs to emphasize what you accomplished, not just where you worked.

You can address your break briefly in your resume or cover letter, but don’t dwell on it—focus on what you’re ready to contribute now.

Refresh Your Professional Presence

Before you start applying, make sure your online and professional presence is up to date and aligned with your current goals.

Here’s what to update:

• LinkedIn profile: Add a strong headline, new skills, recent training, and a professional photo.

• Personal website or portfolio: If applicable, showcase your past work, testimonials, or current projects.

• Professional email and voicemail: Make sure these are polished and ready for recruiters.

If you’re worried about being out of the game, consider posting or sharing articles on LinkedIn related to your industry. This signals that you’re engaged and knowledgeable, even before you land your next role.

Prepare to Talk About the Gap

You’ll likely be asked about your break in interviews—and that’s okay. The goal is to be honest, confident, and forward-looking.

When explaining your career break:

• Keep it brief and positive: “I took time off to care for a family member, and now I’m excited to reenter the workforce.”

• Highlight what you learned or accomplished during the break.

• Emphasize your readiness and enthusiasm to return to work.

Rehearse your answer so it feels natural. Remember, your career break is part of your story—not a setback.

Rebuild Your Network

One of the best ways to reenter the workforce is through connections. Don’t be afraid to reach out to former coworkers, classmates, or mentors.

Here’s how to start:

• Send a short message or email letting them know you’re reentering the job market.

• Ask for advice, referrals, or information about job leads.

• Attend networking events, virtual meetups, or professional groups in your field.

If you’re reconnecting after a long time, focus on building relationships, not just asking for favors. Many people are happy to help—you just have to take the first step.

Apply Strategically and Stay Flexible

As you begin applying, don’t limit yourself to one type of role or company. Consider part-time work, contract roles, returnships, or freelance gigs as stepping stones back into full-time employment.

Look for companies that:

• Value diverse experiences and career paths

• Offer mentorship or return-to-work programs

• Support flexibility, especially if you’re balancing personal responsibilities

The goal is to get back into the rhythm of work, rebuild your confidence, and gain recent experience. Once you’re in, more opportunities tend to open up.

Boost Your Confidence Daily

Reentering the workforce can trigger imposter syndrome or self-doubt. That’s completely normal—but it doesn’t have to define your journey.

Build your confidence through small, daily wins:

• Set and complete simple goals (updating your resume, sending one networking message, etc.)

• Celebrate every step, even if it’s not a job offer

• Surround yourself with people who support your growth and believe in your potential

Confidence builds through action. The more you put yourself out there, the stronger you’ll feel—and the more likely others are to see your value.

Stay Resilient Through Rejections

Rejections are part of the process for everyone, not just those returning from a break. Don’t let them shake your confidence or make you question your worth.

Instead:

• Ask for feedback when possible

• Reflect on what you can improve

• Keep applying, refining, and learning as you go

Persistence is a powerful skill—and it’s one that many professionals reentering the workforce already have in spades.

Looking Ahead

A career break doesn’t define your future—it’s just one chapter in your story. With updated skills, a confident mindset, and a solid plan, you can step back into the workforce with purpose and momentum. You have value to offer, and the right opportunity is out there waiting for you.