Choosing to take career "time off" in the middle of an economic downturn is likely not the greatest idea, however sometimes we're required to do so, particularly when we're preparing for a new baby to arrive. In this day and age, with household budgets being pulled to their absolute limits, the idea of being a full-time mum, while very desirable, just isn't usually possible. At the first moment we're able and prepared, we have to get back into a career to start improving the tenuous financial situation.
With unemployment rates so high, the labour market can seem to be an even more daunting proposition than usual. This is not the time to be recalcitrant however, as you need to double your preparation and negotiation skills along with your self-confidence. To start off with, you should make a thorough analysis of your financial position and needs for the months and years ahead. Be reasonable here, but cut everything that is not absolutely necessary. You should be very clear about your financial requirements, the absolute minimums and the ideal scenarios.
While you may have been quite happy with your career prior to the break, this is an opportunity for you to really evaluate whether you want to go back into that line of business, or whether you want to explore something new. Is this the time to consider setting up your own business, for example? If your financial analysis shows you that you can expect reasonable returns from self-employment and still make ends meet, then this option may allow you to create a good deal more flexibility in your life, down the road. This may well be the time to consider professional coaching as these are some very significant and potentially very impacting decisions. Specific coaching for women in your position will help you determine the correct path.
Always be very positive and never negative. Focus on all your strengths, which you should write out on paper and keep on your desk at all times. Reinforce your psyche and project yourself in all your conversations, phone calls and e-mails.
If you are aiming for a particular position, try and consider jobs which are beneath, but fall naturally within the career progression. You may be overqualified, but if it gives you a steppingstone toward your ideal position, by going the extra mile you will soon find that you become eligible (and get) the position that you want.
Even in this tough hiring environment, those people who really stand out, help and over-perform will still get ahead of the unfortunate majority who do not. If you remember that it is in your mindset to succeed, then you will.
At this stage, you will need all of the inner strength that you can muster. We cannot help but hear all the negative news about the economy and jobs on a daily basis and might be inclined to believe that our task is monumental, a hill too steep to climb. However, remember to take this journey one step at a time and always be 100% sure about your ability and chances of getting a position before you pick up that phone or type that e-mail. A useful tip -- take a deep breath and even stand up when you make a phone call. A slumping posture, or a sagging mindset will not help. Remember to smile as you talk as well!
Online life coaching can give you the boost when you need it, as all of us go through periods of negativity or self-doubt. You can do it!
Author Resource:-
Amanda Alexander is the Director of Coaching Mums and a widely renowned ICF-accredited coach who deliversprofessional coaching programmes to working mums across the globe who long for more time, balance and fulfilment in their busy lives. Download our free eBook especially for working mums with 5 easy ways to achieve balance at=>http://www.coachingmums.com
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