5 helpful tips for reentering the workforce after a divorce

Among the many difficulties arising from a divorce is the prospect of one re-entering the workforce if they didn’t work during their marriage. Both women and men emerging from single-income marriages face obstacles when trying to return to work after a long layoff, especially after caring for their children.

In most situations, the workplace environment they’re re-entering has experienced significant changes since they last had an occupation. Here are some guidelines and steps to take or consider when securing a job after a divorce.

Determine what you want to do.

After one’s been out of the workforce for several years, they may find themselves re-emerging into a completely different landscape than when they left. Career options you had before may have significantly changed or vanished.

Take some time to survey current opportunities and the skills you have. Then decide what kind of post-divorce career you’d like to initiate or continue. You might want to consider training via online tutorials or classes, even if you’re resuming your old career, to prepare yourself for new demands in the workplace.

Be honest about your resumé.

Most potential employers look for continuity in an applicant’s work experience. So, any gaps in your employment history will get their attention. Some applicants will attempt to conceal these gaps by focusing on their skill sets or traits rather than their work chronology, but most hiring managers and recruiters will see through that disguise.

Being forthright about why you haven’t worked is always the better option. Most hiring personnel accept that having been married or taking time off to raise children are perfectly valid reasons for an employment gap—they’re inevitable parts of human life. Consider preparing a written or oral summary explaining your current situation. You might also want to think about having a resumé that highlights both your skillset and your past work history.

Build your network.

A well-connected network is vital to have whenever you’re seeking an employment change, but it’s especially important when you’re re-entering the workforce. Don’t be shy about letting your friends know you’re back in the job hunt.

Reach out to establish connections with recruiters, industry associations, professionals in your field, or other solid resources via social networks like LinkedIn. You may also think about hiring a career coach or attending a job workshop to build your network.

Prepare for interviews.

Most of us have mentally prepped for every job interview we’ve ever had. We’ve even rehearsed them out loud, to be honest. This is especially important to do in the process of obtaining new employment, even if your set responses don’t address every subject that comes up during the interview.

Schedule ample time to prepare for the interview. Make bullet points about potential discussion topics, from your experience to your skillset and approach. Spend what you can on clothes or other services to look professional at your interview.

Shore up your finances and support.

A new job introduces a whole host of changes to one’s life, particularly their schedule and financial state. Make sure both are as settled as they can be before you re-enter the workforce.

If you and your ex-partner still have financial dealings, make sure they’re in place. Get a firm grasp on how your employment may affect the arrangements you’ve negotiated. If you have children, make sure you account for their school pickup schedules and line up childcare if necessary.