Returning to work after maternity leave

Returning to work after maternity leave can be a pivotal moment in your career. You might be eager to embrace new challenges and redefine your professional goals while balancing the demands of motherhood.

Here are some hints to guide you through the process of seeking new opportunities and crafting a career path that aligns with your evolving aspirations and circumstances.

1. Reflect on Your Career Goals

Assess Your Professional Aspirations
Maternity leave often provides an opportunity for self-reflection. Take time to evaluate your career goals and consider whether they have shifted since your leave. Think about what aspects of your previous role you enjoyed and what changes might better suit your current life stage.

Identify New Interests
Consider if there are new interests or skills you’ve developed during your time away. Whether it’s a passion for work-life balance, a desire for more flexibility, or an interest in a new field, incorporate these insights into your career planning.

2. Update Your Professional Profile

Revise Your CV and LinkedIn Profile
Update your CV and LinkedIn profile to reflect any new skills, certifications, or experiences gained during your maternity leave. Emphasise achievements and roles that demonstrate your strengths and adaptability. If you engaged in relevant activities, such as freelance work or volunteering, include these experiences.

Highlight Transferable Skills
Focus on skills you’ve developed or honed, such as time management, problem-solving, and multitasking. These transferable skills are highly valuable and can set you apart in your job search.

3. Explore New Opportunities

Research Potential Roles
Look for job roles that align with your updated career goals and offer the challenges and opportunities you’re seeking. Use job search platforms like Totaljobs, Indeed, Jobsite, Reed, industry-specific websites, and professional networks to identify potential opportunities.

Consider Alternative Work Arrangements
If work-life balance is a priority, explore roles that offer flexibility, remote work options, or part-time opportunities. Many companies are increasingly open to flexible work arrangements that can accommodate your needs as a parent.

4. Network and Seek Guidance

Reconnect with Professional Contacts
Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry connections. Networking can provide valuable insights into new opportunities and trends within your field. Don’t hesitate to let your network know you’re exploring new challenges.

Seek Mentorship
Consider finding a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career transition. A mentor can offer advice on career planning, job searching, and professional development.

5. Prepare for Interviews and Job Applications

Craft a Compelling Narrative
Prepare to address your maternity leave in a positive and professional manner. Focus on how your time away has equipped you with new perspectives and skills that are beneficial for the role you’re applying for.

Practice Your Pitch
Develop a strong pitch that highlights your accomplishments, new career goals, and the value you can bring to a potential employer. Practice articulating your career transition in a way that demonstrates your enthusiasm and readiness for new challenges.

6. Embrace Your Journey

Stay Positive and Persistent
Finding a new challenge after maternity leave can take time. Stay positive and persistent in your job search, and remember that each step is a move toward achieving your career goals.

Balance and Self-Care
Ensure that you maintain a balance between your professional ambitions and personal responsibilities. Taking care of your well-being is crucial for managing both career and family life effectively.