Ep233: How to take a career break (without destroying your future job prospects). Part 1.
In this episode, Mei Phing discusses the key considerations when deciding on whether you should take a career break and how to set yourself up for success when you're ready to return to the working world. Mei Phing also shares her experiences with two careers breaks in 2016 and 2019 to become a caregiver to her mum.
Key Highlights
🧠 Self-Reflection: Before deciding on a career break, analyze your motivations deeply. Personal and professional reasons require different considerations. This reflection helps you make informed choices that align with your long-term goals.
🔄 Skill Development: Use your career break to improve skills or learn new ones. This proactive approach ensures you return to the workforce with enhanced capabilities, making you a stronger candidate for future roles.
🌐 Networking Importance: Staying connected with past colleagues and industry professionals is crucial. Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities, even while you’re on a break, and ensures you’re not forgotten in your professional circle.
📅 LinkedIn Strategy: Update your LinkedIn profile, showcasing your skills and experiences. This visibility to recruiters can lead to job offers, even when you’re not actively searching.
📉 Avoiding Panic: Plan for your return to work during your break. Having a strategy helps mitigate feelings of anxiety or loss of direction when you decide to re-enter the job market.
⚠️ Understand Challenges: Assess whether issues in your current role can be improved or if a break is necessary. Jumping to a new job without addressing underlying problems may lead to repeating past mistakes.
🎯 Intentional Career Breaks: Approach your break with purpose rather than as an escape. This mindset will help you return to work feeling empowered and ready to navigate your career path effectively.
Heyyy - I'm super excited to help you GROW!
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— Mei Phing
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