5 Ways to Turn a Career Break into Job Success

Chris Evert decided to take a break from the women's tour in 1980. Martina Navratilova was gaining the upper hand in their rivalry. Tracy Austin, then tennis prodigy, was beating Evert and Navratilova in the (North American) hard courts. Evert got married to British player John Lloyd the year before. The Boca Raton, Florida native, who was nearly invincible on the clay courts, wanted to dominate the sports again. A few months would be good enough, as the summer (of 1980) marked her triumphant return to the game. (Evert reached the finals in Wimbledon and won her fifth US Open title.) What Evert did was uncommon in tennis until there were too many tournaments played throughout the year. The game became too physical, but Roger Federer thought of taking a six-month leave (and undergo knee injury). 2017 was one of his finest performances. Almost. (Rafael Nadal ended the year as number one.)

An athlete's career is far different from an employee (or any employee for that matter), as the latter has a monthly salary and benefits. Sabbatical happens, though. There are varied reasons, from personal matter to a reevaluation of career goals. Andy Murray's predicament would show that taking a long break can be a risky move. There's uncertainty on the outcome, but there's nothing to be scared of. A proactive approach to the situation is the only way to do it. You don't have to justify your break during your next job interview.

What to do about it? How should you do it?

What Kind of Break is Right For You?

Go back to school. Emma Watson took a break from acting in 2012 to finish her undergraduate degree at Brown University. If you've been working for many years, then you might be too old for this option. You can pursue a graduate degree, also a postgraduate degree. You must make sure that you'll gain an advantage in your field after completing your studies. Can you pay your tuition? If not, then you must look for a part-time job. If you have a family, then you must make a decision with them. (If you believe that the decision is yours and only yours alone, then tell them nonetheless. It might not sit well with them.)

Go on a holiday. Francis Galton, famed polymath who was knighted in 1909, published "The Art of Travel" in 1872. Many believed that it was the world's first travel guide, and it offered practical advice on traveling. Galton, who grew up in Birmingham, didn't foresee mass tourism and how social media would infect tens of thousands of users with wanderlust. (Backpacking may be one of the ill effects, but it will be a different topic.) Sir Galton argued that one must travel if there would be available funds. Technology might be of the factors behind the complexity of the modern world, which the Englishman might have seen during the later stage of the Industrial Revolution. He would advise keeping the details of the trip(s) to yourself, as even the wisest men would be envious of your adventure. (Not all have the opportunities.) And no embarrassing photos.

Rediscover your hobby. You might have taken it for granted during your younger years, which would be fine. The second chance doesn't come often, so think about it carefully. This can be a career option. If you're passionate about it, then you can make a living on it. Reading is an exception unless you're thinking of an academic career. Collecting stamps (or any valuable collectibles) doesn't provide a steady income, so look for a part-time job. If it has something to do with cooking, then you have a lead there. Connect with the right people. Ask them the right questions. Don't be afraid to ask for help, as struggling on your own don't look romantic (nor heroic) at times. Managing your own restaurant is a daunting prospect, but nothing is impossible if you want it.

Volunteer. A lengthy break won't make you a good candidate for some recruiters, which can be a reason for not calling you after the interview. Don't be despondent about it, as you can look for volunteering opportunities. There's no harm in asking about salary, but don't expect too much. You're starting all over again, which is the case with anyone with a blank page to write on. Luck would favor the prepared, so give it your best effort. And show your genuine enthusiasm for the cause.

Tend to your personal needs before anything else. Your other half has been ill for some time. No one can look after your parent. It's the same case with your sibling. Any recruiter will understand this kind of situation. If you decide to raise your young child (or children), then you may not need to state it in your resume.

If You're Too Old For This, Here Is What You Should Do

Assess your work experience, paying attention to the skills that make you stand out in the workplace. Take note of your soft skills, but you don't need to tell it to recruiters. (Say it when they ask it.) Look at your interests one more time. You'll find an answer somewhere.

You might be looking at a long road, so don't be discouraged about your prospects. Keep on trying, as you'll succeed sooner or later. Never apologize for the timeout, as it can happen to everyone.