HBR Women at Work Boxed Set (6 Books)

17

Returning to the Workforce After Being a Caregiver

by Rebecca Zucker

Reentering the paid workforce from a full-time caregiving role can feel daunting. Sadly, research has shown that there has historically been a bias against caregiving in recruiting for women, as well as against caregivers who are men, since their caregiving violates gender norms.1 Regardless of gender, even a short time out of the paid workforce can leave you feeling unsure of yourself—it’s like trying to merge onto a fast-moving, busy freeway when you haven’t driven for a while.

Here are six strategies to make your reentry less intimidating.

Show yourself some compassion

Even if it’s a candidate’s market, any job search can be challenging and invariably has its ups and ...