Credit: LinkedIn
Meera’s story is not just about returning to work after a break in her career; it’s a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of women in tech. As a seasoned software engineer with a decade of experience in developing software on IBM mainframes, Meera’s career took an unexpected turn when she decided to take a hiatus to focus on her family.
The decision to accompany her husband to Australia, where he had secured a job opportunity, meant immersing herself in a new country and culture. With two young children under the age of ten, Meera’s days were filled with the joys and challenges of motherhood, coupled with the complexities of adjusting to a foreign land.
“I took a career break of 5 years to focus on family and then returned to work,” Meera shared, reflecting on the pivotal moment when she decided to reignite her passion for software engineering. “Let me tell you, it was not easy. You know, when I started getting ready to return, I realized that there are so many women, engineers with my level of experience, who take a career break.”
The prospect of re-entering the tech industry after such a substantial hiatus seemed daunting at first. The rapid advancements in technology during her absence added to the challenge. “I felt like I’d been living under a rock for the past five years,” Meera remarked, acknowledging the skills gap she needed to bridge.
However, Meera’s determination and thirst for knowledge propelled her forward. She embarked on a journey of upskilling, enrolling in online courses to update her skills and familiarize herself with the latest technologies like AI and machine learning. Attending webinars and workshops became a regular part of her routine, as she sought to stay abreast of industry trends and developments.
But the challenges didn’t end with upskilling. Rebuilding her professional network posed another hurdle. “It’s not easy,” Meera admitted, reflecting on the difficulties faced by many returning professionals in networking and reconnecting with industry peers. Despite the initial challenges, Meera leveraged online platforms and reached out to former colleagues, gradually expanding her network and gaining valuable insights and support.
The landscape for returning professionals, especially women in tech, has evolved over the years. Meera found solace in companies that offered second career programs and flexible work arrangements, understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals like her transitioning back into the workforce.
The pivotal moment arrived when Meera received an invitation for her first interview after the career break. The mix of excitement and apprehension was palpable. “I was so excited… but then I took a deep breath and reminded myself that I had the experience, skills, and knowledge to succeed,” she recalled, encapsulating the emotions of many returning professionals navigating similar paths.
Navigating workplace dynamics post-break presented its own set of challenges for Meera. Addressing stereotypes and establishing mutual respect with colleagues required open communication and a shared understanding of each other’s experiences and expertise. Meera’s proactive approach in addressing these challenges set a positive tone, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual respect.
Reflecting on her journey, Meera shared invaluable advice for women returning to work after a career break. “Returning to work after a career break can be challenging for anybody… with the right mindset, upskilling, networking, and support, it is possible to overcome these challenges and achieve your career goals,” she emphasized, embodying the spirit of resilience and determination that defines her journey.
In conclusion, Meera’s career journey highlights the challenges and triumphs of returning to work after a break. Her story serves as an inspiration for women in tech, showcasing the resilience, determination, and continuous growth that define success in the professional world. Through upskilling, networking, and leveraging support systems, Meera navigated the complexities of re-entering the workforce with grace and determination. Her experience reminds us that with perseverance and the right mindset, any obstacle can be overcome, and career aspirations can be realized. As Meera continues to thrive in her career, she paves the way for others, proving that a career break does not diminish one’s skills or ambition but adds depth to the journey of growth and success.