To re-enter the tech industry after a break, update skills through courses and certifications, network with professionals, attend tech events, update your LinkedIn profile, consider freelance or part-time work, explore returnship programs, showcase personal projects, highlight transferable life skills, prepare for interviews with confidence, and remain persistent and positive.
How Do You Re-enter the Tech Industry After a Maternity Break? Tips and Inspirations
To re-enter the tech industry after a break, update skills through courses and certifications, network with professionals, attend tech events, update your LinkedIn profile, consider freelance or part-time work, explore returnship programs, showcase personal projects, highlight transferable life skills, prepare for interviews with confidence, and remain persistent and positive.
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Update Your Skills and Knowledge
To re-enter the tech industry after a maternity break, start by refreshing your knowledge and skills in your field. Technology evolves rapidly, and it's crucial to be up-to-date with the latest trends and software. Consider taking online courses, attending workshops, or obtaining certifications to bolster your résumé and demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning.
Leverage Your Network
Networking is a powerful tool for getting back into the tech industry. Reach out to former colleagues, supervisors, and other professional contacts to let them know you're planning to return to work. They might have leads on job openings, offer recommendations, or provide insights into new industry trends that can aid your transition back.
Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Attending tech conferences, webinars, and industry events is an excellent way to immerse yourself back into the tech community. These gatherings can provide valuable learning opportunities, insight into industry trends, and the chance to meet potential employers or collaborators. Make a point to engage with speakers and attendees to expand your network.
Create or Update Your LinkedIn Profile
A strong online presence can significantly aid your re-entry into the tech industry. Update your LinkedIn profile with any new skills, courses, or certifications you've acquired. Being active on the platform by sharing articles, joining groups, and participating in discussions relevant to your field can also increase your visibility to potential employers.
Consider Freelance or Part-time Work
If jumping straight back into full-time employment seems daunting, consider starting with freelance or part-time projects. This can help you gradually adjust to working again while building your portfolio and confidence. Freelance gigs can also lead to full-time opportunities or serve as valuable networking contacts for the future.
Seek Out Return-to-Work Programs
Many tech companies offer "returnship" programs designed for professionals who are re-entering the workforce after a break. These paid positions provide training, mentorship, and the opportunity to work on real projects, making them an ideal stepping stone back into full-time employment in the tech industry.
Showcase Your Projects
If you've worked on any personal tech projects or contributed to open-source projects during your break, make sure to showcase these on your CV or portfolio. This demonstrates your passion for technology and your initiative to stay engaged with your profession, even while away from the workforce.
Highlight Your Transferable Skills
Life skills acquired during your maternity break, such as time management, multitasking, and problem-solving, are highly valuable in the tech industry. When applying for jobs, highlight these transferable skills and relate them to how they can benefit your role in a tech environment.
Prepare for Interviews with Confidence
Prepare for job interviews by researching potential employers and practicing your answers to common interview questions. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or mentor in the tech industry to build your confidence. Remember to articulate not only your technical abilities but also your soft skills and how your unique perspective can contribute to the company.
Stay Persistent and Positive
Re-entering the tech industry after a break can be challenging, but persistence and a positive attitude are key. Don’t get discouraged by rejections; instead, view them as learning opportunities. Keep applying, networking, and upgrading your skills, and remember that finding the right opportunity may take time but is entirely achievable.
What else to take into account
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