Inside the Data From Our Latest Survey
Every year, we hear thousands of stories from people who are ready to re-enter the workforce after time away. The reasons vary, but the themes are remarkably consistent — and this year’s survey made that clearer than ever. Question 7 of our Back To Work Connect Returner Survey asked a simple question: What is motivating you to return to work?
The answers offer a real-time snapshot of what midlife returners in Ireland are thinking, feeling, and needing as they consider their next step.
1. Financial Pressure Is the Primary Driver
It won’t surprise anyone that money tops the list.
63% of respondents mentioned financial pressure directly — referencing income, pensions, independence, divorce, the rising cost of living, or simply needing stability again.
For many, returning to work isn’t optional. It’s essential. But the comments also showed that motivation is rarely only about financial need. It often sits alongside the desire to contribute, grow, and reconnect with working life.
2. A Desire for Purpose
While a smaller percentage, 21% specifically mentioned purpose as a motivating force.
This group talked about wanting to feel useful, make an impact, and re-engage with work that feels meaningful. For them, returning to work isn’t simply about employment — it’s about stepping back into a life that feels aligned and energising.
Purpose often becomes more important in midlife, when people take stock of their skills, interests, and values. A role that offers direction and fulfilment can be just as motivating as a competitive salary.
3. Rebuilding or Reclaiming Identity
A smaller but powerful theme came through as well: 14% explicitly cited identity.
These respondents spoke about wanting to feel like themselves again — to reconnect with the professional confidence, routine, and personal validation that work once gave them.
Identity isn’t just about job titles. It’s about belonging, contribution, and self-belief. After years of caregiving, illness, or major life changes, returning to work can feel like reclaiming lost ground.
4. Life Stage and Family Shifts
Many responses pointed to a practical but important turning point: children getting older and more independent.
With childcare pressures easing, some respondents now feel they have the space to re-enter the workforce with fewer logistical barriers.
This shift often marks a new chapter — a chance to revisit ambitions that were parked for years.
5. A Want for Connection and Challenge
Several respondents mentioned wanting to meet people, get back out of the house, feel stimulated again, or re-engage with evolving technology and work environments.
For this group, the workplace isn’t just a source of income — it’s a community and a catalyst for personal growth.
What This Means for Employers
The message from Returners is clear: midlife workers are motivated, skilled, and ready for a fresh start. Their reasons for returning reflect both necessity and ambition. Employers who recognise this — and create pathways that respect experience, flexibility, and confidence-building — will gain access to an underused talent pool rich in resilience and capability.
The Opportunity Ahead
Returners aren’t just coming back because they have to. Many are returning because they want to contribute, to grow, and to feel like themselves again. Their motivations are layered and deeply human. And they deserve opportunities that treat them as such.
If your organisation is ready to embrace returners in 2025, the opportunity is wide open — and the talent is right in front of you.
For more information and supports on creating a Returner Friendly recruitment process reach out to our team at info@backtoworkconnect.ie
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If you would like to take part in this survey you can do so via the link below. The survey is anonymous, only takes a couple of minutes, and your insights will directly shape resources and opportunities for future Returners. There are no right or wrong answers — we’re simply interested in your perspective.
Your voice matters. Thank you for sharing it.
