Getting Back to Work

You’re either dying to get back to work, or you’re in disbelief. Is it that time already? Almost!

But if you’re craving more time with your little one, they good news is that control is in your hands. It’s your life, after all.

Here are a few tips on how to prepare for getting back to work:

1. The first step is to notice how you feel. This will help you decide your next steps. Do you want to continue with baby? Do you want to start work, but not miss lots of time with him/her? Do you want to throw yourself back into it as if you’d never left? If you’re unsure, it’s a great time to get out a notepad and list the pros and cons of each option.
2. Check in with HR. Find out what options are available when returning to work. Could they offer a phased return, so you (and baby) get used to a new routine? Some options you can ask about are:
   
   
   • Phased return
   • Career break
   • Unpaid leave
   • Part-time hours
   • Working from home

   Make sure you find out if your job will remain the same (or if it will be held for you if taking a career break) and get agreements in writing so that everyone is on the same page.

3. Set objectives. These can start before you return to work and can be as simple as checking a project management board once a day to familiarise yourself with current workloads. When you do return to work, you can set yourself objectives each day to ensure you are working towards the company’s larger goals. This will show your commitment and professionalism and reassure your employer if they have agreed to a different working style or pattern for you.
4. Regular review meetings with your manager. Try and schedule these in at least on a bi-monthly basis. This will give you both an opportunity to discuss what is working well and what’s not and demonstrate your value-add often.
5. Ask for help. If you say nothing, your work will assume you are fine. If you are struggling with a new or old arrangement, your work will want to ensure you are comfortable and will help find a solution or support you.
6. If it doesn’t work for you, there will be something else. If your employer is refusing to accommodate your needs and you cannot live happily, or feel like you are sacrificing too much, there are other career options that are heavily suited to working around a schedule and providing flexibility. Not only that, but there are businesses out there that readily accept alternate arrangements and understand how beneficial it can be to a workforce.

Whatever route you go, it’s good to know your options are open and it’s never too late. If you are worried to start fresh in a new sector – don’t be! You can study for under a year and begin a new career. The potential pay cut can seem daunting, but there is support available and in a few years, you could be earning more than you currently are.

If you’re interested in finding out more about training to enter a new sector, rekindle employment or start fresh, have a chat with one of our career advisors today. Enquire Now