Returning to work after a career break can be extremely daunting, and it’s normal to feel anxious about the prospect of returning to a work environment. Richard Holmes, director of wellbeing at Westfield Health, lists his advice on how to handle coming back to the job after a hiatus
Speak to loved ones
Family and friends often act as the biggest support network, and speaking to them about workplace worries can provide reassurance and remind you of your skills and ability as a professional. For those who have been out of work for a considerable amount of time, speaking to ex-colleagues for advice will offer a reminder of what a working day consists of; this will be a good way to connect with professionals in a similar field, making the transition back to work smoother.
Make a plan
If you’re returning to your old job, it’s important to make a plan for how to tackle your workload. Organisation and forward planning will not only alleviate stress, it will prevent the overwhelming feeling of catching up on work that has been missed. However, it’s also important to remember to shut off from work, so aim to get preparation done early in the evening so you can unwind before going to bed.
Take it easy
Work anxiety is common after a long absence; make sure to discuss these feelings with colleagues and line managers so they can help ease it where possible. Employers should be flexible, and understanding of people’s commitments, as being an accommodating manager is crucial to improving the wellness of staff and rebuilding trust after a long absence.
Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’
Taking on too much at work will make you feel stressed and run down; it’s better to have a smaller work load, and complete tasks efficiently, rather than to over-stretch yourself. To help order your thoughts and stay productive, break down larger tasks into smaller ones and prioritise their importance.
Look after yourself
When returning to work you may find that you’re busier than usual, but make sure you still take the time to look after yourself. Help avoid getting run down by eating healthy meals and get at least seven hours of quality sleep a night to help stay charged up for the day. Trying a phased return to work will help you to rebuild your stamina for the working day and prevent burnout and exhaustion during this period.
“As there are no laws governing career breaks it is important that both the employer and employee communicate what their expectations are when an employee returns from a career break, especially if it has been a long one.
“Failure to have an open dialogue can lead to resentment and, ultimately, the breakdown of the employment relationship. With career breaks becoming more and more common, especially amongst millennials, employers are advised to put in place a formal career break policy that sets out the eligibility criteria for taking a career break and the process for employees returning to the workforce after having a break.
“This way both parties know where they stand from the outset and unnecessary conflict can be avoided.”
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