Around 90,000 people each year take a career break in the UK. From raising children to travelling the world, caring for ageing parents or learning a whole new skill set for a future career, those who are pressing pause on the nine-to-five is on the rise.
While a year out to travel or learn a new skill can be beneficial in terms of developing yourself personally and growing as an individual, returning to work after an extended absence can be challenging.
In recent years, the concept of a “returnship” – a paid internship or apprenticeship program for people who have taken time away from the workforce – has gained popularity as a way for individuals to re-enter the workforce after an extended career break.
A returnship provides an opportunity for workers to update their skills, gain relevant work experience, and transition back into their chosen fields.
Gary Clark, Director of Basecamp, a Ski Academy operating in the travel industry, said:
“A returnship is a structured and often paid internship or short-term employment opportunity designed specifically for individuals who have been out of the workforce for a significant period. Also known as a return-to-work program or re-entry program, a returnship aims to help them refresh their skills, build confidence, and reacclimate to the professional environment.
“We’ve experienced a number of individuals who chose to take career breaks to follow passions or hobbies, not least taking a gap year ski instructor course. However, settling back into a daily routine may take some time, and some assistance could go a long way.”
Career Break for Caregiving or a New Experience
The possibility that you may now have outdated skills, industry changes while you were away, or a perceived gap in experience can all provide challenges. A returnship provides an opportunity to bridge that gap, gain up-to-date knowledge, and rebuild professional networks.
Career Change
If you’ve decided to change your career path or transition to a different industry, a returnship can be a valuable stepping stone. It allows you to acquire relevant experience and demonstrate your transferable skills to potential employers who might otherwise be hesitant to hire someone without direct experience in the field.
Technology Advancements
In rapidly evolving industries such as the technological or medical sector, taking a break can lead to outdated skills and a loss of industry knowledge. A returnship offers a chance to update your technical skills, learn new tools and methodologies, and get hands-on experience with the latest advancements.
Network Rebuilding
When you’ve been away from the professional world for a while, your network may have become dormant or outdated. A returnship exposes you to new contacts, colleagues, and mentors who can provide guidance, support, and potential job opportunities down the line.
The benefits of returnships extend beyond the individuals participating in them. Companies that offer returnship programs gain access to a diverse talent pool, tap into experienced professionals who bring valuable perspectives, and foster an inclusive work culture.
If you’re thinking a returnship could be beneficial for you, there are a few steps you can take.
Research Returnship Programs
Before your returnship, make sure you do your research. Explore companies in your desired industry that offer returnship programs. Look for organisations that have a track record of supporting individuals returning to work and providing meaningful opportunities.
Update Your Skills
Assess the skills and knowledge that may have become outdated during your career break. Consider enrolling in relevant courses, attending workshops, or pursuing certifications to update your skills and make yourself more competitive.
Network
Reach out to professional contacts, attend industry events, and join online communities related to your field of interest. Building and expanding your network can open doors to potential returnship opportunities and future employment prospects.
Update your CV and Prepare for Interviews
Highlight your transferable skills, showcase any relevant projects or initiatives you pursued during your career break, and stress your willingness to learn and grow. Tailor your CV to each returnship application, rather than creating a generic one, and demonstrate how your skills align with the specific role and company.
It is important to brush up on your interview skills, practice answering common questions, and be prepared to address any concerns related to your career break. Be prepared to emphasise and drive home your motivation, adaptability, and commitment to returning to the workforce after taking some time away.
Returnships offer a valuable pathway for individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended break. They provide an opportunity to update skills, gain relevant experience, rebuild professional networks, and rebuild confidence.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to transition back into your career, consider exploring returnship programmes as a stepping stone towards achieving your professional goals.
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