Skills Shortage List Australia: Occupations in Demand in 2026
Published 23 Jan 2024
5 Essential Strategies for Going Back to Work After a Break
Michael Yi 
Returning to work after a break, whether it be due to maternity leave, sabbatical, or personal reasons, can be both exciting and daunting.
The thought of getting back into the daily grind and reconnecting with colleagues may bring a sense of familiarity and comfort. However, there is also the concern that you may have fallen behind in your skills or feel overwhelmed by new changes in your workplace.
Whether you are facing similar challenges or simply looking for ways to ease yourself back into work mode smoothly, these tips will provide valuable insights and practical advice for a successful return to work. So let’s dive in!
1. Reflect on the reasons behind your break
First off, returning to work after a break is common. In fact, around 64% of female and 29% of male workers in Australia and New Zealand have taken a career break at some point, according to a survey by recruitment firm Hays.
Taking a break can be a valuable tool when it comes to recharging and refocusing for the future. It’s important to reflect on the reasons behind your break so that you can set realistic expectations for yourself moving forward.
Maybe you were feeling burnt out, or maybe you needed to take care of personal or family matters. Whatever the reason may be, it’s essential to take the time for self-reflection and understand your motivations for taking a break.
Once you have a clear understanding of why you needed the break, you can set achievable goals for yourself and conquer the challenges that lie ahead. Remember, a break can be an opportunity for growth and self-improvement, so use it as a chance to come back stronger and better equipped to handle the demands of your work and personal life.
2. Updating your resume and LinkedIn profile
As you take a break from your career, it can be easy to overlook professional development. However, it’s important to keep track of any relevant experience you obtain during your time away.
Whether it’s volunteering for a non-profit or taking a class to learn a new skill, these experiences can make a big difference when you decide to re-enter the job market.
Be sure to update your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase any new skills or accomplishments that you’ve achieved during your break. This will demonstrate to potential employers that you have been proactive in enhancing your skill set and are ready to jump back into the workforce.
3. Reconnect with old colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts
Expanding your professional network can open up new opportunities for your career growth and development, and reconnecting with old colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts is a great way to start. These individuals already know and trust your work, making it easier for them to introduce you to other professionals who can benefit your career.
Whether it’s scheduling a coffee meeting, sending a personalised email, or connecting on LinkedIn, reaching out to your past connections can help you expand your network quickly and efficiently.
Remember to update them on your current work, ask about their professional endeavours, and always express gratitude for their time and consideration.
4. Consider taking on freelance or volunteer work
If you find yourself in a position where your resume is lacking a certain skill or experience that potential employers are looking for, consider taking on freelance or volunteer work. Not only will you be able to gain new skills and knowledge, but you will also be able to fill gaps in your resume with relevant experience.
Freelance work can offer the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, expanding your skillset and showcasing your abilities. Volunteering can also provide valuable experience while helping a good cause. By taking on these opportunities, you’ll be making yourself a more competitive candidate in your desired field.
5. Brush up on industry knowledge
Staying updated on industry knowledge is crucial for career growth and development. One way to do this is by studying a relevant course. Online learning provides a convenient and affordable way to learn from industry experts and keep up with the latest trends and best practices.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can gain a competitive advantage and demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning and improvement. It may require some time and effort, but investing in education is a smart decision for anyone looking to advance their career.
In conclusion, the answer to whether there is a demand for allied health professionals in Australia is a resounding yes. These essential healthcare workers play a vital role in the delivery of high-quality healthcare services to Australians, and their demand is only expected to increase in the future.
Investing in the education and training of allied health professionals and addressing current challenges can help ensure that Australia’s healthcare system continues to meet the needs of its citizens.
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