Returning to work
If you’ve been away from your main career for anything from a relatively short break to an extended period, making the transition back to work can mean quite a change. To manage the process and make it as smooth as possible, take some time to plan how best to approach it. Review the suggestions below to get started.
Consider your working arrangements
Depending on the circumstances of your discipline, you may have the option to adjust your working arrangements to better suit you on your return. Read our information on flexible working and College policies for more information.
Think about what you need
Investigate whether there is any particular retraining that you may need to update your skills. If there is, don’t be afraid to ask for it. It will be to the advantage of both your discipline and your own experience if you are assisted to catch up on new developments as quickly as possible.
Take part in Springboard
If you haven’t already participated in Springboard, the personal & professional development programme for women run by WiSER, do so now. It will enable you to re-evaluate your skills and strengths, and determine your goals going forward. It will also re-connect you with a network of women in College which can be especially useful if you’ve been away for a while. Click here to find out more about Springboard.
Training
The Open University runs a course for people who have been on career breaks from science, engineering and technology careers, and who are ready to return to work. The 10-week part-time online course helps you to assess your skills and experiences, identify where you want to go next, and come up with an action plan to help you get there. It also provides a chance to meet new contacts, and learn from role models and mentors in SET fields.
For more information, visit their website.
WiTS Ireland offers some bursaries for women in Ireland and Northern Ireland wishing to return to work in SET who would benefit from attending the course. Contact them to discuss at re-enter@witsireland.com or 087-7690319.
Additional Resources