Before a career break, set clear goals like skill learning or family care. Stay updated in tech through courses and certifications, and network via tech groups and platforms. Use social media to showcase expertise and engage in freelance to stay active in your field. Document skills gained during the break and be open to new roles upon return. Seek mentorship and craft a positive comeback story, highlighting the value added during the break. Exercise patience and resilience in re-entering the workforce, continuing to learn and network.
What Are the Best Practices for Women in Tech to Navigate Career Breaks Successfully?
Before a career break, set clear goals like skill learning or family care. Stay updated in tech through courses and certifications, and network via tech groups and platforms. Use social media to showcase expertise and engage in freelance to stay active in your field. Document skills gained during the break and be open to new roles upon return. Seek mentorship and craft a positive comeback story, highlighting the value added during the break. Exercise patience and resilience in re-entering the workforce, continuing to learn and network.
Empowered by Artificial Intelligence and the women in tech community.
Like this article?
Building Resilience in Tech
Interested in sharing your knowledge ?
Learn more about how to contribute.
Planning Your Break with a Clear Objective
Before taking a career break, define clear goals for what you want to achieve during this time, whether it’s learning new skills, personal development, or attending to family matters. Having a clear objective will help you maintain focus and give direction to this period, making it easier to articulate the value of your break to future employers.
Staying Technologically Relevant
Technology evolves rapidly; staying updated is crucial. Women in tech should engage in continuous learning during their break, whether through online courses, webinars, volunteering in tech-related projects, or earning certifications. This not only keeps your skills sharp but also shows prospective employers your commitment to your career.
Networking and Community Engagement
Active networking plays a pivotal role in staying connected with the industry. Join tech forums, women in technology groups, or LinkedIn communities to keep abreast of industry trends and opportunities. Networking can also open doors to potential job offers when you decide to return to the workforce.
Strategic Use of Social Media
Utilize social media platforms wisely to build and demonstrate your expertise. Share your thoughts on industry trends, write about your learning journey, or share projects you’re working on. This builds your personal brand and makes you visible to recruiters and professional contacts.
Consulting or Freelance Work
If possible, engage in consulting or freelance projects related to your field. This not only provides you with an income but also keeps your resume active, reduces the employment gap, and helps maintain a practical connection with your industry.
Documenting Your Journey
Keep a detailed account of how you’re spending your break, especially if it involves gaining new skills, working on personal projects, or volunteering. This documentation will be invaluable when updating your resume or interviewing, allowing you to effectively communicate the value of your break.
Flexibility and Openness to New Roles
Upon your return, be open to different roles or sectors that you may not have considered before your break. Flexibility can open up new career paths that align with your current skills and life circumstances, offering fresh challenges and learning opportunities.
Mentoring and Support Networks
Seek mentors and support networks, both online and offline, who can offer guidance, moral support, and advice on navigating your return to the workforce. Their insights and encouragement can be invaluable during this transition phase.
Crafting Your Comeback Story
Prepare a compelling narrative that explains your career break in a positive light, focusing on the skills and experiences gained during this period. Employers appreciate candidates who can articulate their journey and demonstrate how their break has added value to their professional growth.
Patience and Resilience
The process of re-entering the tech industry might take longer than expected. Patience and resilience are essential during this period. Stay persistent, keep applying, learning, and networking. Your determination will pay off as you find the right opportunity that aligns with your career goals and life priorities.
What else to take into account
This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?