Defining Success as You Return to Work

It’s fairly common for people to return to work after a career break through project-based work, consulting, or returnship programs. Because of the temporary or time-bound nature of these kinds of positions, we often hear how anxious people are about whether or not they’re on a path to success. This anxiety seems to be centered on what may be a narrow definition of success – will this company offer me a full-time job at the end? While we certainly see that as a positive, it isn’t the only way to be successful in your return to work – and we encourage you to think more broadly as you think about what success means to you.

Here are some ways you can measure success as you return, all of which are in your control:

You accomplished something of value that is useful and relevant to employers: This may be the key benefit of a consulting project or return to work program – the chance to get updated professional experience. Don’t overlook this benefit and don’t assume it will happen without your active engagement in the process. Yes, the company and your manager will help guide you as you complete your assignment but you need to bring your full focus to the work to make it something that will become resume-worthy.

You expanded your professional network: This is probably the second biggest benefit of taking on a project or getting hired into a returnship program. Take every opportunity you can to interact with people throughout the company. Whenever possible work across groups and teams. Volunteer to help out on projects that interest you. The more people you meet, the more opportunities will be open to you – both inside and beyond the company. Find ways to do work with as many people as you can, ask some of your new coworkers for feedback, and make it a habit to connect with everyone you meet on LinkedIn. These interactions can turn into references down the line.

You learned something important about yourself: It is common for people who’ve been away from their career for a few years (or more!) to feel unsure if they will still like what they did before. A returnship and project-based work are both great ways to try out a job before you totally commit to it. You can try out new skills, or the same skills but applied to a new environment, and test the culture fit of a new company. You may discover that you love the work but you want to be at a company that is bigger or smaller or different in some other way. Knowing what makes you happy – and what doesn’t – will help you hone in on a better fit elsewhere.

All three of these benefits will help you find a job that you love – either at the company where you first return or another one. And best of all, you’re in control of the process and what you make of it.