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Thinking of Returning to Work in 2025? Here’s How to Make Your Comeback a Success


 

If you’re considering going back to work this year, you’re not alone. In fact, with 1 in 8 retirees planning to return to the workforce in 2025, many others are also contemplating a career comeback after taking time off for childcare, education, caring for loved ones, illness, or other personal reasons. Whether you’re re-entering your industry or exploring a new one, the transition can be challenging but entirely possible with the right strategies. Here are the top tips for returning to work in 2025.

Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

One of the first steps in your career comeback is making sure your resume and LinkedIn profile reflect your experiences – both before and during your career break. While it’s important to include the career break itself, don’t overlook the skills and experiences you gained during that time.

  • Highlight transferable skills: If you volunteered during your time off, for example, emphasize skills like project management, fundraising, event planning, or leadership. These are all valuable to employers and show that you’ve stayed active and engaged.
  • Emphasize personal growth: If you took time off to care for a family member, for instance, focus on the problem-solving, communication, and multitasking skills you honed during that period.
  • List any courses or certifications: If you took the opportunity to upskill during your break – whether through online courses or professional development – include those on your resume. This shows employers that you’ve kept your skills sharp and are committed to continuous learning.

By framing your career break as a period of growth and skill-building, you’ll stand out as a candidate who’s both experienced and adaptable.

Rebuild and Reconnect with Your Network

Your professional network is one of the most valuable tools when re-entering the workforce. Start by reconnecting with people you already know – whether they’re colleagues, old classmates, or even acquaintances you’ve met at school pick-ups or through volunteering.

Start small with networking. Have an idea of what you want to gain from networking and what your career goals are. Reaching out to just one or two people each week can help you slowly rebuild your network without feeling overwhelmed. When you’re feeling more confident, try attending local networking events. Whether in-person or virtual, networking events are an excellent way to meet new people in your field and learn about potential job opportunities.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to utilize the contacts you already have. Even people you meet on the sidelines of your kids’ soccer game or at community events can be valuable connections. Let people know you’re job hunting – they may have leads, advice, or be willing to serve as references. Networking isn’t just about finding job opportunities – it’s about reigniting your sense of belonging in the professional world and boosting your confidence as you prepare to return to work.

Create Your Elevator Pitch

A powerful elevator pitch can help you introduce yourself with confidence and start conversations with potential employers or networking contacts. The goal is to convey who you are, what you do, and why it matters – all in under 60 seconds.

Tips for crafting your elevator pitch:

  • Start with a brief introduction: Who are you, and what’s your professional background?
  • Explain what you’re looking for: Are you returning to your previous field, or pivoting to something new?
  • Highlight your value: Why should someone want to connect with you? What unique skills or experiences do you bring to the table?

This pitch can be paired with a brief bio or professional summary to keep the conversation going and help others understand your career goals.

Explore Returnship Opportunities with reacHIRE

If you’re feeling uncertain about re-entering the workforce or want extra support as you navigate the process, consider exploring returnship opportunities with reacHIRE. Our Returnships are designed for professionals who’ve had a 2+ year career break and want to return to full-time employment. Check out our open roles, and send in an application! If you’re hired, you’ll restart your career in a paid position alongside a group of other like-minded Returners.

reacHIRE will help with interview prep and refreshing your resume, while providing a supportive community all along the way. Our program is perfect if you don’t want to go through this journey alone. 

Returning to the workforce in 2025 is an exciting opportunity to tap into your skills, experience, and the growth you’ve achieved during your career break. By updating your resume, reconnecting with your network, refining your elevator pitch, and exploring Returnship programs, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and successful return. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone – resources and support are available to help you thrive in your comeback.