Re-entry into working life

Susanne Möcks-Carone: Not all re-entry is the same. Some come back from parental or care leave, others have taken some time off to travel, for example. Others have been off work for a long time due to illness or are coming back from retirement. Re-entry can mean that the person returns to their old company or starts at a new company. What all options have in common is that a new professional phase begins.

Returnees are specifically looking for a new job and are therefore usually highly determined and motivated. This is particularly the case if they have had a period of reflection of their own choosing or can make a decision without economic pressure. Even those returning from parental leave or a period of illness are often much better organized than before - because they have to be. It is now important to find a good balance between professional and private demands. For example, the mother or father has to leave on time at 5 p.m. to pick up the child. Fortunately, I have often found that these employees work much more effectively in the time available.

In the past, companies and colleagues often lacked an understanding of individual time and working models. If someone had to leave on time or wanted to work remotely to do care work or take on private tasks, this was sometimes met with a lack of understanding, especially in conflict-ridden working environments. This particularly affected those returning to work, as they may be the ones who have other roles and commitments in addition to work. Nowadays, companies are much more open-minded and willing to compromise. There has definitely been a development.

Nevertheless, the topic of returning to work is still far too often overlooked in companies today, instead of being a natural part of personnel development or recruitment. Employers who make re-entry an important part of personnel development, communicate accordingly and explicitly demand support from management teams are acting in an exemplary and motivating manner. Best practice in a company can become a role model for other companies and have a positive impact on its reputation.

This starts with an open, sympathetic discussion with the person returning to work in order to clarify expectations and opportunities on both sides. This openness helps to avoid nasty surprises afterwards.If both parties decide to work together, the employer should provide good support and the right framework conditions.