It is becoming more and more common for people to take career breaks. However, returning to work after a career break can be unnerving and daunting - especially in accountancy, an industry constantly evolving in response to new technologies and regulations. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to ease the transition back into the workplace.
 

Keeping Up To Date

If you are a member of a professional accountancy body, make sure that your professional membership is up to date and attend any courses and networking events you are able to. For example, ICAS and ACCA provide their members with a wealth of online resources and CPD courses that can be completed from home.
 

Finding the Right Role

Many organisations are now realising the value qualified returners bring with their wealth of professional and life experience, which is why they are offering tailor-made roles for such individuals.
 

It's important to find a role that suits you the best. There are several career pathways you can pursue, such as public or private practice, professional services, industry and freelancing. It is important to research various organisations to identify the pattern of on-job training offered to employees, specific workload, accountancy specialism, and flexible working which match your needs, interests and skill set. Many companies, for example, the Big Four, offer schemes and programmes designed to provide returners with the support needed to re-establish their expertise in their chosen sector.
 

Other Sources of Support

Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for advice and support. There are many organisations which can assist you in returning to work, such as:
 

• Your professional body will provide you with many opportunities to attend training and complete courses to keep you up-to-date with the changing trends so that you are ready to ace tasks at work, whenever you decide to return.
• Recruitment consultancies such as Eden Scott can offer you more information about the current marketplace and job opportunities along with supporting your application.
• Existing and new networks of connections can give you the opportunity to talk to fellow returners and learn more about the return to work programmes out there.
• There are various coaching programmes that can help you build your confidence and offer useful training. For example, the Women Returners Professional Network’s coaching team of professional women, who all have returned to work after taking a career break, offer valuable support and advice
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Returning to work in accountancy after taking a career break doesn't have to be a difficult experience. Make sure that you take the time to plan, prepare and make an informed decision.
 

Everyone at Eden Scott wishes you the best of luck and if you have any questions please feel free to get in touch on 0131 550 1100 for an informal discussion or email at anthony.oliva@edenscott.com.