I have been on a sabbatical for over 8 years due to family reasons.

8 Comments

1. AnonymousSeptember 15,2024 at 4:17PM UTC

   Going on a sabbatical for over eight years is a really long time. Usually it's something that goes on from a few weeks to a couple years at most. Are you really passionate and interested in staying in the industry is the first question that comes to my mind, or did you retire and now want to return is the second? Be prepared to elaborate further on your sabbatical would be my suggestion.

2. AnonymousSeptember 15,2024 at 4:52PM UTC

   The longer you are out of a market the more challenging to get back in. BUT it’s doable. Figure out where in the industry you want to work and apply directly to the companies. Network on LinkedIn with those in the industry and set your profile as seeking. Also contact previous colleagues for guidance. On your resume, put the date range of your time out of working and what you were doing. Perhaps went back to school or being a stay at home mom or caring for an ill family member, list something. If you simply just quit the recruiters will discern if you are going to just quit again and if they consider you high risk. Former recruiter here… those who maintained a job had a better chance of getting submitted. It’s doable to reenter the workforce but you may have to work your way up again.

3. AnonymousSeptember 15,2024 at 5:07PM UTC

   Leverage your networks- friends, families, former colleagues, alumni, neighbors, people they know- on Linkedin, informational interview contacts, etc. to get your foot in the door (for a job). That industry seems specific. Could you broaden your reach or are there specific associations/ certifications you could go after (attend a conference, talk to a regional chair, etc.).

   Yes, many say that the longer you're out of work/ or in a field, the harder it is to return. While there's some truth to it, I say, "it depends on a variety of factors." It may be worth considering where you have other interests and skills and look their too.

   Seems like this is going to be a time for you to shine and grow. May take persistence. Good luck!

4. AnonymousSeptember 15,2024 at 5:18PM UTC

   I would not call it a sabbatical when talking to recruiters since its not. Sabaticals are for growth, study, etc. Not a leave due to family reasons. Not to mention for 8 years.

5. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistSeptember 16,2024 at 12:43AM UTC

   Look for companies that offer returnships.

6. Meghana SanghviSeptember 16,2024 at 7:30PM UTC

   I have been trying that. However few pharma companies offer returnships. Also I have experienced that they don't have a separate application process for returners. So if no positions are available in their relaunch/return ship/back to work program, your resume is lost in their talent hub where all candidates post their resumes.

7. AnonymousSeptember 16,2024 at 7:31PM UTC

   If possible, please do let me know about any such companies

8. AnonymousSeptember 16,2024 at 2:26PM UTC

   8 years is a long time. Have you thought about temp work while you get you skills back up to current standards?