by Kathryn Hall, The Career Owl
Embarking on a career comeback after a hiatus is a journey filled with both excitement and challenges. Crafting a standout CV becomes not just a necessity but a strategic move to showcase your value in the job market. Here’s a closer look at how harnessing the power of numbers can make your return to the workforce not just noticeable, but impactful.
1. Highlight Transferable Skills:
During your career hiatus, you likely acquired a unique set of skills that are valuable to potential employers. When highlighting transferable skills, consider specific examples that demonstrate your adaptability and versatility.
For instance, if you took time off to manage a family or caring for a child, discuss how coordinating schedules, managing household budgets, and resolving conflicts within a family dynamic translate into exceptional organisational and interpersonal skills such as liaising with medical professionals, appointment scheduling and attending, medicine management, activity planning, adapting to surroundings and needs of your child.
Use concrete examples to showcase the direct applicability of these skills to the workplace.
2. Quantify Achievements:
Numbers speak louder than words. When describing your achievements in previous roles, use quantifiable metrics to illustrate your impact. In quantifying achievements, go beyond percentages to provide context and depth. Instead of merely stating a percentage increase, delve into the specifics of the project or initiative.
For example, rather than using generic statements like “Improved team efficiency” or “Implemented a customer feedback system” you could say “Implemented a new project management system, resulting in a 20% increase in team efficiency within six months.” or “Implemented a customer feedback system that led to a 20% increase in customer satisfaction scores within three months.”
Concrete numbers add credibility to your accomplishments and provide tangible evidence of your contributions but also tells a compelling story about the impact of your actions.
3. Tailor Your CV for the Job:
Tailoring your CV involves more than just tweaking keywords; it requires a thoughtful alignment of your experiences with the specific needs of the job. Use the job description as a guide and incorporate relevant keywords and phrases into your CV. Provide specific examples of how your skills and accomplishments directly align with the requirements of the position.
For example, if the job emphasises strong analytical skills, highlight relevant experiences and achievements that showcase your analytical abilities. This personalised approach demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and increases your chances of catching the recruiter’s eye.
This tailored approach demonstrates a genuine interest in the role and your commitment to contributing value.
4. Showcase Continuous Learning:
When showcasing continuous learning, emphasise the practical applications of the knowledge gained. Discuss how completing online courses or certifications has directly contributed to your skill set.
For instance, “Completed a digital marketing certification, applying the latest SEO strategies to increase online visibility for a personal project.”
This demonstrates not only a commitment to learning but also the ability to apply newly acquired knowledge in real-world scenarios by staying abreast of industry trends, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
5. Network Effectively:
Building and leveraging professional networks is essential for a successful comeback. Effective networking involves proactive engagement and strategic relationship-building. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and initiate conversations with personalised messages. Instead of generic connection requests, express genuine interest in the other person’s work and share your own experiences. Networking is not just about seeking opportunities; it’s about building authentic connections that can offer mutual support and insights. Reconnecting with your professional community can provide valuable insights and support during your career transition.
6. Craft a Compelling Personal Brand:
Crafting a compelling personal brand requires careful consideration of your unique strengths and values. Develop a succinct and memorable professional summary that encapsulates your expertise and passion.
For example, “Innovative marketing professional with a flair for storytelling and a commitment to driving brand authenticity.”
A well-crafted personal brand not only sets you apart but also demonstrates your passion and commitment to your chosen field. Remember, consistency in visual elements, tone, and messaging across platforms reinforces your brand identity and leaves a lasting impression on potential employers.
7. Address Employment Gaps Proactively:
Addressing employment gaps transparently in your cover letter is essential. Instead of viewing your career hiatus as a setback, present it as a period of personal development and family responsibilities. State your eagerness to bring your enhanced skills and fresh perspective to contribute to the prospective employer’s team. Discuss any courses or projects undertaken to stay relevant.
For instance, “During my break, I pursued advanced training in project management, completing XYZ certification.”
By proactively addressing gaps and showcasing initiatives taken during that time, you redirect the narrative from a hiatus to a period of intentional skill development.
8. Seek Mentorship:
Connecting with mentors or career coaches can provide invaluable guidance during your comeback journey. A mentor can offer insights, share experiences, and help you navigate the challenges of re-entering the workforce.
In seeking mentorship, be specific about your goals and what you hope to gain from the mentorship relationship.
For example, “I am seeking mentorship to navigate the current industry landscape and gain insights into effective strategies for career reentry.”
This clarity helps potential mentors understand how they can provide valuable guidance and support tailored to your needs.
9. Embrace Technology and Social Media:
In the digital age, leveraging technology and social media is crucial for career success. However, it involves more than just having an online presence; it’s about actively engaging with digital platforms. Create an engaging LinkedIn profile with a professional summary, endorsements, and recommendations. Share relevant content to establish yourself as an industry expert. Actively participate in online discussions and forums related to your field.
- Share industry-relevant content on LinkedIn, participate in discussions, and showcase your expertise.
- Create a professional website or portfolio that not only lists your achievements but also provides a platform for sharing your thoughts on industry trends.
Embracing technology not only showcases your digital literacy but also expands your online presence as a thought leader in your field, making you more visible to potential employers.
10. Be Confident and Positive:
Approach your career comeback with confidence and a positive mindset. Confidence and positivity are conveyed not just through words but also through body language and tone. During interviews, focus on your achievements, growth, and the valuable experiences gained during your career hiatus.
For instance, if asked about the employment gap, frame it positively: “During my time away, I focused on personal development and acquired valuable skills that I’m eager to apply in a professional setting.”
Confidence in your abilities will instill confidence in potential employers. Express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute your skills and perspectives to their organization, emphasising the unique value you bring to the table.
Conclusion
Embarking on a career comeback is a transformative journey that demands a strategic and thoughtful approach. As I conclude this blog, let’s reflect on the 10 key principles that form the foundation of a successful career comeback. Each strategy, from highlighting transferable skills to embracing technology, plays a crucial role in shaping a compelling narrative of growth and resilience.
- Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasise the skills gained during your hiatus that are transferable to your desired role. Showcase adaptability, resilience, and any specific skills acquired during your time away.
- Quantify Achievements: Use quantifiable metrics to illustrate the impact of your previous roles. Numbers provide tangible evidence of your contributions and help you stand out in a competitive job market.
- Tailor Your CV for the Job: Customise your CV for each application to align with the specific job requirements. Showcasing a tailored approach demonstrates your genuine interest in the position.
- Showcase Continuous Learning: Demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field during your career hiatus. Highlight any courses, workshops, or certifications completed to showcase ongoing professional development.
- Network Effectively: Leverage professional networks to reconnect with colleagues and industry contacts. Networking not only provides valuable insights but also opens up potential job opportunities.
- Craft a Compelling Personal Brand: Develop a unique personal brand that tells a compelling story, maintains consistency across platforms, showcases your values, incorporates an interactive portfolio, and solicits genuine recommendations.
- Address Employment Gaps Proactively: Transparently address any gaps in your employment history in your cover letter. Present the hiatus as a period of personal development, emphasising your eagerness to contribute your enhanced skills.
- Seek Mentorship: Connect with mentors or career coaches who can offer guidance and support throughout your comeback journey. Learn from their experiences and insights.
- Embrace Technology and Social Media: Utilise technology and social media to showcase your skills and connect with potential employers. Establish a strong online presence through platforms like LinkedIn and actively participate in industry discussions.
- Be Confident and Positive: Approach your comeback with confidence and a positive mindset. Focus on your achievements, growth, and the valuable experiences gained during your hiatus during interviews.
Embarking on a career comeback is a courageous step towards professional growth and fulfillment. Remember, your journey is unique, and by implementing these strategies with authenticity and intention, you are not just re-entering the workforce strongly; you are charting a course for a fulfilling and successful career ahead. Remember, your unique story and the skills you bring are assets that can contribute significantly to your success. Best of luck on your comeback journey!