Empowering Your Comeback: A Guide for Women Re-Entering the Workforce

Life can take unexpected turns - a job loss, illness, divorce, or spousal abandonment is one of those challenging detours. This can be a tough season, but it can present an opportunity to rediscover yourself and create a new future. Re-entering the workforce can be difficult, but you can have a prosperous career with a new mindset and the following strategies:

• Embrace Your Emotions - Embrace your feelings. The emotional aftermath of a job loss, illness, spousal abandonment, or divorce can be overwhelming. Give yourself time to grieve and heal, and consider obtaining support from a therapist or counselor who can help you process your emotions and rebuild confidence.

• Assess Your Skills and Interests - Take an assessment to learn your skills, strengths, and aptitudes. The assessment results will provide a wealth of information to help you find the right career that matches your assessment profile.

• Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile - Your resume and LinkedIn profile are your professional calling cards. Make sure they reflect your recent work experiences and skills. Highlight your volunteer work, freelance projects, or courses you have taken during your time away from the workforce.

• Network and Reconnect - Networking is essential in the current job market. Connect with former colleagues, friends, and acquaintances to let them know you are re-entering the workforce and are open to career opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional groups on social media, and consider joining virtual or local networking groups for women. These connections can provide valuable job leads, advice, and support.

• Consider Upskilling - If you have gaps in your skills or want to change careers, consider additional education or training. Online courses, certifications, and workshops are excellent ways to gain new skills and boost your resume. Platforms like SOFEIOnline, Coursera, Canvas, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer courses that can meet your learning goals and objectives.

• Explore Flexible Work Options - Many women re-entering the workforce find that flexible work options, like part-time roles, freelancing, or remote work, are a great way to transition back. These alternatives can provide the work-life balance needed during this time of adjustment.

• Hone Your Interviewing Skills - Practice mock interviews with friends, colleagues, or career coaches. Use your assessment results to determine the value you can add to a business, a company's bottom line, or human capital. The more you practice, the more confident you will be during your job interviews.

• Leverage Support Systems - Do not hesitate to lean on your support systems. Family, friends, and support groups can provide encouragement and practical assistance, whether helping with childcare, offering moral support, or providing job leads.

• Set Realistic Goals - Set realistic and achievable goals for your job search. Break down your larger goal of re-entering the workforce into smaller, manageable ones. Celebrate each milestone to build momentum and maintain motivation.

• Stay Positive and Persistent - Re-entering the workforce can be challenging. , and you may face setbacks along the way. It’s important to stay positive and persistent. Remember, each step you take brings you closer to your goal. You have to believe in your abilities and keep moving forward.

Starting over after a setback (e.g., spousal abandonment, job loss, illness, or divorce) is a courageous step toward rebuilding your life. You can successfully navigate this journey by embracing your emotions, assessing your skills, leveraging your network, and setting realistic goals.

You are not alone in this journey, and your comeback starts now! With your determination and resilience, you can create a thriving and fulfilling future.