Taking a career break in the middle of a recession is probably not the best idea, but sometimes we are forced to do so, especially when we are expecting a new arrival. These days with household budgets being stretched so thin, the thought of being a full-time mum, while attractive, is not realistic. As soon as we are able and are ready, we need to get back into the job market to find a way of catching back up financially.
With unemployment rates so high, the labour market can seem to be an even more daunting proposition than usual. This is not the time to falter though and it is important to prepare your negotiation skills and boost your self-confidence, ready for battle. To start off with, you should make a thorough analysis of your financial position and needs for the months and years ahead. Be reasonable here, but cut everything that is not absolutely necessary. Be very clear in your own mind about your financial requirements, what you absolutely need as a minimum and what is ideal.
You may well have been perfectly happy with your career before you took the break, but you should now evaluate exactly where you are, whether you want to go back into that arena or explore something completely fresh. Should you start your own business? Does your financial analysis tell you that you can expect to have fair returns from self-employment, while still making ends meet and if so you may be presented with an exciting and flexible concept for your new life. This may well be the time to consider professional coaching as these are some very significant and potentially very impactful decisions. Specific coaching for women in your position will help you determine the correct path.
It’s important to be positive and never to focus on the negative. Focus on all your strengths, which you should write out on paper and keep on your desk at all times. Reinforce your psyche and project yourself in all your conversations, phone calls and e-mails.
If you are aiming for a particular position, try and consider jobs which are beneath, but fall naturally within the career progression. You may be overqualified, but if it gives you a stepping-stone toward your ideal position, by going the extra mile you will soon find that you become eligible (and get) the position that you want.
Even in this tough hiring environment, those people who really stand out, help and over-perform will still get ahead of the unfortunate majority who do not. Set your mindset for success and you will get there.
Call on all the inner strength that you know you have as you will certainly need it. We cannot help but hear all the negative news about the economy and jobs on a daily basis and might be inclined to believe that our task is monumental, a hill too steep to climb. However, remember to take this journey one step at a time and always be 100% sure about your ability and chances of getting a position before you pick up that phone or type that e-mail. Before you make a phone call, stand up and take a deep breath. If you have a drooping mindset or a sagging posture this will not help you. Remember to smile as you talk as well!
Nowadays, online life coaching can give you the boost when you need it, as all of us go through periods of negativity or self-doubt. You can do it!
Amanda Alexander is Director of Coaching Mums and a highly acclaimed ICF-accredited coach who delivers professional coaching programmes to working mums who yearn for success, balance and fulfilment. Are you a juggling mom? Download our free eBook for working moms that will give you 5 simple and instant ways to balance your life right now!
Tags: business, coaching, family, parenting, work-life balance