Returning into the workplace

Most of us take a break in our working lives for various reasons. Whatever they may be and however long the break, the prospect of returning to work can seem very daunting to many. The latest WEN forum held yesterday addressed this dilemma, giving guidance on a host of issues that face a “Returner to work.”

Our guest speakers for the night were two leaders from our local community, Jacquie Hime, Director of North Herts CVS, and Kate Belinis, CEO of CDA for Herts. Both spoke of her journey into their present role and gave powerful tips to secure an interview and face it with confidence.

Having taken a length of time off from the working arena to raise a family, Jacquie chose to develop herself by attending as many free courses as possible, which was echoed by Kate. Their essential message was – give yourself the advantage by gaining as many skills as you can while you are looking for employment, whether this is through volunteering or doing suitable courses. The key to individual personal success is to be driven and to constantly learn, whether they are new qualifications, skills or about yourself.

One element which radiated from both ladies, who have had remarkable careers, was their passion for the roles they hold. Reflecting this, another key message is to find out through a process of trial and error the role which is appropriate for you. They emphasised the importance of regarding each experience as a learning opportunity, and to have the confidence to know that you can achieve what you want and to seek what you desire.

Being leaders of local charities, both ladies have strong knowledge as to what makes a successful job application. Their tips include:

• Know how to complete an application form, including asking someone to double-check your form for errors and to give advice on making it stronger
• Address the job description and person specification by showing, not merely telling, how you fulfil each criterion

With regards to facing an interview, a message endorsed by both ladies was that in order to have been short-listed, you must have had a strong application form. Take confidence in that knowledge. A major part of the interview preparation process entails finding out as much as you can about the organisation including visiting the premises if you feel it will help settle you nerves. Many recruiters ask similar questions, so it is worth searching for interview questions and preparing solid responses.

An exercise led by Eileen concluded this incredibly stimulating evening. All the ladies were asked if they were granted one wish to improve an aspect of their lives, what that would be. With this wish in mind, they were asked to work in groups to turn their wish into a SMART goal.

Women who come together and work together can make a significant difference in each other’s lives and a magnificent contribution to the wider community. We, at WEN, hope this has a cascading effect in all aspects of everyone’s life. We look forward to seeing you at the next WEN forum.

By Tulasi Siva