When my career was affected by a corporate restructuring, I decided to take advantage of the timing to launch my own small business and give myself the flexibility I needed to balance work and home. I started consulting for small entrepreneurs, providing my clients a range of services, from bookkeeping to digital marketing to strategic planning.
After running the business for several years, I began to explore the possibility of returning to a corporate role. I applied to jobs on LinkedIn, and connected with some local employers in Boston, but either the fit was not right, or my career gap was perceived as a liability. In 2013, I received an email from reacHIRE, which was aimed at women like myself, inquiring if I was eager to re-engage in a corporate role. This unexpected email changed my life completely. I took full advantage of the reacHIRE opportunity to refresh my skills and boost my confidence that had waned in my search efforts.
reacHIRE provided an exceptionally thorough retraining program to ensure that each of us was fully prepared to re-enter the workforce. The training hit on all cylinders; focusing on skill sets, mindsets, and networking strategies. The program provided the right on-ramp for us to successfully transition, excel, and regain confidence.
reacHIRE is an incredibly innovative company that is changing how women think about their careers and how employees view women who have taken a career break. Soon after the training was completed, I was offered a contract assignment in a technology group at Fidelity Investments. With no technology background, however, I was concerned how I would add value. Fortunately, the company leadership was visionary, as it wanted my strategic and communication skills precisely because I would offer a different perspective and bring new skill sets.
After a year on contract, I pursued a permanent position, as I loved what I was learning and was thrilled to realize how my skills were transferable and I could add value. I was fortunate to be offered a full time role as a Director of Vendor Management. Today, my primary goals are to continue to grow in my position and support the company’s mission.
I am incredibly grateful to be where I am today and wouldn’t have any of this success without the exceptional support of Addie and the team at reacHIRE!