Stepping away from your career to parent is terrifying, but it isn’t career-killing. Returning to work is daunting, but it isn’t impossible. I’ll share my experience returning to tech after 10 years of raising kids. We’ll also discuss data, industry trends, and tips to instill the confidence you’ll need to relaunch your career without burning up on re-entry.
8. #MDBLocal
A Majority of Stay Home Moms Consider Going Back to Work
Ø 80% become moms by the age of 40
Ø ⅓ of working moms takes an average of 3 years off for family
Ø 74% of those who leave, leave for childcare reasons
Ø 57% of women who have attended elite universities paused after
having children.
11. #MDBLocal
Famous Successful Pausers
Sami Kafala – Nuclear Physicist, Imperial College of London
Linda Zechner – After leading PeopleSoft, 3 year break- Sr VP Oracle
Brenda Barnes, former CEO of PepsiCo – after 6 year break joined Sara
Lee and became CEO
Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor – after 5 years returned
for public service
Tory Burch – fashion designer – 15 years ago had no idea
12. #MDBLocal
4 Types Non-linear Careers
CRUISERS – pulled back to part-time when children are young, then
re-engaged full-time.
BOOMERANGERS – left the workforce completely, but then returned
in the same role and often for the same companies.
PIVOTERS – stepped back, re-evaluated and transitioned into new
careers that reflected skills and interests.
16. #MDBLocal
Best Advice from Friends
Don’t Hide Your Gap – Highlight Your Skills, Passion
Be Frank, Honest, and Interesting
Be Your Best Advocate!
( Sometimes the Worst Advice Comes from the Best Intentions)
17. Learn the Technology
Give You Confidence
- for them
- for you
Know If You Like the Tech
Gain Credibility as a Shield
The Interview Technical Challenge
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RETURNSHIPS
Sharpen Your Skills, Experience
Revive Mentors and Network
Reacquaint with Work Culture and Pace
Confidence
Do You Even Like to Swim Still?
Internships for Untapped Talent Pool
EMPLOYERS:
Find GEMS! – Reverses Talent Drain
Hire Based on Body of Work
Commit to Lifelong Learning
Positively Impact Corporate Culture and
Bottom Lines
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Strategies
Ø Know Your Value. Be Engaged, Confident.
Ø Be Comfortable About Your Time Away.
Ø Don’t Apologize. Practice Talking Points
Ø Use Your Network
Ø Don’t Give Up – You Might not Find the Perfect Job at First
Ø Share the Burden. Manage Your Guilt