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It’s the beginning of a New Year, and many people are thinking about returning to the workforce after an extended absence. Does this idea excite you or intimidate you? For me it was a little bit of both. After a 4 1/2 year hiatus from recruiting, to focus on my family, I began a new position with Solü Technology Partners this fall. Top of mind for me was how much the workforce has changed, with the advent of ‘work from anywhere’, hybrid work models, and other ramifications of the pandemic…how would I navigate this new environment?
When thinking about re-entering the workforce, first you need to consider how to get started? Who can you connect with that will help you get into a role that is right for you? Reach out to previous colleagues, customers, vendors, etc. as they will be able to give you great insight into the state of the market you left. That is what I did when I began my journey back to the “working world”. Also, do your research on where you want to be, the role, the company and their culture. It helps to work with a recruiter to guide you, as they are the experts in the job market no matter what industry you want to break back into.
After going through the interview process, landing your next career and embarking on this new chapter, more questions arise. Would I still be able to build relationships with new colleagues, customers, and candidates if we had little opportunity to meet in person? The answer to that question is yes. It is possible to build rapport with people over the phone, during Zoom calls and through friendly emails and instant messages. The key to success is to be receptive and show a genuine interest and respect to new people you meet virtually. Ask them questions, find out how they got into their respective fields, compliment them on something you saw on their LinkedIn profile, etc.…
Here are three tips to help you get started.
- Set up weekly Zoom meetings with one or two of your new colleagues. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help when you don’t know something. Most people want to share what they know with others.
- Learn as you go. Don’t worry about trying to learn everything up front. You will figure it all out as time goes on in your new position.
- Be sincere. As a Recruiter, one of the joys of my job is getting to know people, and therefore asking a lot of questions to get to know them. Most people find it very rewarding to get to share their stories with you.
By the end of my first week, I was easily building new relationships with potential candidates again and reconnecting with previous contacts. I was starting to get to know my new colleagues, who have been welcoming, gracious, and very helpful.
The most rewarding part of returning to the workforce has been reconnecting with former contacts. It has been such a joy to get updates from people I have worked with in the past, and to congratulate them on professional and personal successes! Former colleagues have shared news of weddings, children, promotions, etc. Making those connections brightens my day, and ultimately is the reason why I work in this field. I love to connect with people, listen to their stories, and see if there is anything I can do for them to help them achieve their goals. I have found purpose and fulfillment in my work once again, something for which I am very grateful.
If this New Year you are contemplating offering your skills to a new employer, I encourage you to go for it! And let those of us here at Solü Technology Partners help you on your journey!