Stop using apologetic and unsure language

It’s no secret that career breaks carry a certain stigma. It’s very possible that you may have been made to feel like you’re ‘not serious’ or even flaky if you’ve stepped away from your job (no matter the reason), but the truth is that you don’t have anything to prove. To anyone.

It might feel hard, but one of the easiest changes you can implement is changing the way you talk to avoid apologetic and unsure language. No more Sorry to bother you or No worries if not. You’ll have gained so many skills and built up a lot of resilience during your break, so now is the time to utilise this.

Get a return-to-work support group

It’s important to focus on building relationships inside and outside of the workplace. So if you feel a bit isolated from your colleagues after time away, it’s a good idea to create a return-to-work support group to be your guides and cheerleaders. It can be made up of people you know in real life, others in the same situation as you or professional career coaches. Groups like Women Returners can also be a great source of advice and comfort as you navigate your new role.

5 ways to build confidence and return with a bang after your career break