At Back to Work Connect, we are passionate about connecting Returners and career changers to the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to re-enter the workforce following a career break. We call on all organisations to introduce Returner Friendly recruitment processes.
But first, what (who) is a Returner?
A Returner is someone re-entering the workforce after an extended career break, which may have been taken for reasons such as family caregiving, further education, or personal health issues. Unfortunately, there’s often a disconnect between midlife workers looking to resume employment and the opportunities available to them. This can be linked to misconceptions about Returners, leading to the undervaluing of experienced, talented, and hardworking candidates eager to return to the workplace.
Challenges Faced by Returners
Returners often encounter obstacles such as gender pay gaps, recruitment biases, and missed opportunities. Misunderstandings about their needs include assumptions that they require special allowances, hand-holding, or extra resources. In reality, Returners seek career development, support, job satisfaction, flexibility, and recognition beyond the “Returner” label.
Benefits of Hiring Returners
Employing Returners brings profound benefits, including:
- Access to an experienced talent pool
- Increased gender and age diversity
- Progress towards reducing internal gender pay gaps
- Solutions to skill shortages
- Highly motivated candidates
- Cost-effective recruitment
- Opportunities to fill mid-to-senior level roles with experienced female talent
Introducing the Returner Friendly Badge
We created this badge for forward-thinking Irish organisations committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Returner Friendly badge unlocks dynamic recruitment opportunities by highlighting your company as a supporter of Returners. Displaying this badge sends a powerful message that you are an inclusive employer promoting gender and age diversity.
Supportive Practices for Returner Friendly Employers
Supportive Hiring Practices:
Returner Programs: Offer tailored return-to-work programs or internships that include on-the-job training, mentorship, and gradual reintroduction to professional responsibilities.
Bias-Free Recruitment: Implement hiring practices that value career breaks and do not penalise candidates for gaps in their CVs.
Flexible Working Arrangements:
Provide options for part-time work, flexible hours, or remote working to accommodate Returners’ needs.
Training and Development:
Offer skills training, professional development courses, and continuous learning opportunities to help Returners update their skills and knowledge.
Mentorship and Support Networks:
Establish mentorship programs and support networks for Returners to share experiences and receive guidance.
Positive Workplace Culture:
Foster an inclusive and supportive culture that values diversity and recognises the unique perspectives Returners bring.
Awareness and Sensitisation:
Train managers and HR staff to understand and support Returners effectively during their transition.
Next Steps
For HR Managers, Team Managers, Recruiters:
If you are ready to reap the benefits of a Returner-friendly workplace, contact us at info@backtoworkconnect.ie for more information on our Returner Friendly Badge and additional supports.
For Returners:
Register for a Back to Work Connect account to access job opportunities with Returner-Friendly employers, webinars, courses, and additional support resources.
By adopting these practices, Returner Friendly employers can create an environment where Returners can successfully restart their careers, bringing valuable skills and experiences to the workforce.
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