Planning Your Career Re-Entry After a Divorce

A divorce is a drastic life-changing experience.   As a result of divorce, some previously stay-at-home spouses or full-time parents find themselves needing to work in a full-time job outside the home.  Returning to work can stir feelings of anxiety, fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty.   Creating a plan to manage the transition can reduce those negative feelings and expedite the start of a new, satisfying career.   The following are techniques that have proven helpful for candidates re-entering the workplace following a divorce.

Examine All Options

Open your mind to all possible career opportunities.  Just because you were an accountant before your career break does not mean that you will return to that same type of position.  You can change the direction of your career to match your current passion.  It is not uncommon for people to discover new interests and develop different skills from those of a past career.  Perhaps you will find that you have multiple career paths to explore as you re-enter the workplace.

Update Your Skills and Knowledge

The world changes rapidly and not just regarding technology and media.  As you re-enter the workplace, it is critical to update your skills and knowledge, particularly those skills required in your target career.  At a minimum, you’ll need to get acquainted with the latest software applications, communication applications, and social media outlets.   If you are unsure of the job skills required, review several job postings for jobs in your field and read the profiles on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.    

Immerse Yourself in Your Target Industry

If you plan to enter the real estate industry, for example, you’d better know all the ins-and-outs of the industry, as well as the local market in which you plan to work.   Visit websites of real estate companies, professional associations, and industry-related blogs.   Ask those in your target industry for informational interviews. These are interviews in which you do not ask for a job. The sole purpose it to learn more about the industry and potential occupations.  Immersing yourself in your target industry will help you uncover new opportunities and also aid in your preparation for interviews.

Launch a Multi-faceted Search Strategy

To get a job in today’s market, you can’t rely on just one or two methods.   You must launch a multi-faceted campaign.   Efforts should include: Posting your resume online on the major job boards, as well as niche and local job boards, distributing your resumes to recruiters, and reviewing job postings on job boards, employer sites, and association sites.  Of all the methods, the most fruitful method is networking!  Network online with LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.  Network in the real world by connecting with colleagues and attending industry events. Networking is critical to achieving your goal.

Create a Supportive Environment

A supportive environment can be a job search group, a support group for recently-divorced individuals, or a group of friends that you meet on a regular basis.  The best support groups are those that foster positive action by all participants and encourage support.  Also, access advice and help from career professionals, such as resume writers and career coaches.  When you hire a professional, ask about their experience in helping candidates returning from a career break.

Divorce is the beginning of a new life.  Big changes in our lives can be frightening; however, it also has the potential to be rewarding.  Use the above methods to define and pursue a new career.  Cheers to you and your bright future!