Is career break such a bad thing?

A career break could be to manage an important transition in one’s life, for care giving or to experience the world outside of one’s cubicle. A career break is a personal choice. Should it really be judged as a poor choice or seen as career limiting? I have barely been on a 3 month career break and these are some of my experiences.

1.      A recruiter tells me what a risk I have undertaken to leave my job without having picked up another.

2.      Another one picks up my CV for an exciting role but later states that the employer might not want to consider me, given the break.

3.      An employer tries to exploit me by offering a lower designation and salary assuming that I am finding it hard to find a job due to my break (I barely started my search).

4.      Another one views my break with suspicion thinking that no one sane would voluntarily quit without another job.

I look at the person who’s taken a break and wanting to get back a little differently. Tell me if you agree?

1.      It tells that the individual is courageous.

2.      It tells that the individual believes in her/himself, and their skills. It tells that they are competent and do not fear challenges.

3.      It speaks volume about their commitment to their priorities- priorities both personal and professional. When they know that a personal commitment would keep their mind away from work, they refuse to be a parasite. They are more committed to the organization than what one would normally think. It also tells that they would run an extra mile for whenever the organization needs them to.

How does an organization benefit by considering professionals on a break?

1.      The professional who’s starting afresh is usually rejuvenated/ healed and is rearing to go. They have greater enthusiasm and motivation than someone who’s just changing their office address.

2.      They value the employment so much more after a break, are grateful for the opportunity and wanting to put their best foot forward.

3.      In most cases are available to join immediately.

All organizations are talking inclusion big time. Isn’t it time we open our minds to this set of individuals, and create a win-win? What do you think?