Returnship opportunities are set aside for returners. A career gap is required. This means you are not applying alongside candidates who are currently in the workforce.
Note: You may see positions listed on other websites that are “open to returners.” Experience tells us that these types of positions don’t result in returners getting hired. In contrast, positions listed on the Path Forward site actually require that you have a career break and are ONLY open to those with a resume gap.
Like all job opportunities, returnships are competitive. Remember, though, that when you apply for a returnship, you will be competing on a level playing field with others who also have a career break.
Yes. All returnship opportunities are paid positions. The pay rate and benefits (if any) are determined by each employer.
A returnship pays a rate usually comparable to the prevailing market rate for that position. The pay rate and benefits (if any) are determined by each employer.
For temp-to-perm returnships, this rate is usually non-negotiable for the returnship period. During the returnship interview process, however, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask what the typical salary range is for that position, and to use that information to negotiate the terms of your ongoing employment at the end of the program period.
For direct hire returnships, you can and should negotiate your salary as you would for any new position.
Each employer determines whether or not benefits are offered for temp-to-perm returnship programs. Full-time benefits packages are included for direct hire programs.
Today, the vast majority of returnship programs are full-time, but we hope and expect to see that change over time as more companies offer these programs.
The majority of returnship programs are 3-4 months long, but today they range anywhere from 8 weeks to 6 months in length.
More than 80 percent of returners who complete a returnship convert to full-time positions, with the remainder generally finding employment within six months.
Each company determines their own criteria for success and will make the decision on whether to make an offer of ongoing employment at the conclusion of the returnship period.
A lot! Path Forward has free resources on our website for people accepted into a returnship program. The Returnship Success Guide will help ease your transition back into the workforce and help you restart your career with confidence.You can also join our online community, even before you land a returnship, to connect with other returners and get some inspiration from these success stories.