The easiest way to keep up-to-date on new returnships is to check the Returnship Matcher on our website and to sign up for our newsletter.
On Path Forward’s Returnship Matcher, which is updated weekly, you can browse all US-based returnship programs. After clicking on the opportunity that interests you, you will be directed to that company’s website to apply. You will notice that the Returnship Matcher also includes information about companies that run returnship programs, but who are not currently recruiting. You can use the filter in the left menu to filter out those companies, and include only ones currently in recruitment.
Note: Emailing a resume to Path Forward and/or signing up on our website is not an application for a returnship.
Many people who’ve paused their career for a few years find it’s difficult to be considered for full-time positions. They may also be uncertain how their prior experience translates into today’s workplace and may lack confidence in their abilities.
Returnship programs address all of these issues by creating an environment where you are able to redevelop your skills while gaining valuable experience. That being said, only you can decide the best way for you to restart your career.
We’ve definitely seen people successfully make a career change, or pivot, through a returnship. Keep in mind that returnship positions are competitive, just like any other job, so be sure to read the returnship job description to determine what skills and experiences are required and what are preferred, and give careful consideration to how your past experiences can translate to the role.
Career pivots tend to be most successful when the new career requires skills that are related to the prior career, or when the candidate has done reskilling to fill skills gaps. View our Returner Resources on career pivots for more information.
We generally discourage people from relocating to take a temp-to-perm returnship since there is no guarantee of employment at the end. However, we realize that each person's situation is unique and that you may be willing and able to take on the added risk.
Yes!! Most companies are looking for applicants with several years of professional experience that can be used to fuel their career restart. As part of that, they are open to transferable skills, nontraditional education backgrounds, and experience gained outside of the paid workforce.
If you believe you meet many of the qualifications listed on a job description – even if your skills and experiences weren’t gained the “traditional” way through a job — you should absolutely apply. See the article “I Don’t Check Every Box on the Job Description. Should I Apply Anyway?” for more information.
Congratulations! Path Forward has free resources on our website for you once you’re 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 to connect with other returners and get some inspiration from these success stories.
While we share returnship opportunities on our site, it is the employer who will review your application, get in contact, and make all hiring decisions. Most companies will recruit and hire over a period of several months, but this timeline varies widely. If the employer believes you are a good fit for the returnship role, they will reach out to you.