Getting Your Career Back on Track

Getting back into work after a long absence, either through illness, redundancy or having children, can be an extremely challenging and stressful time. However, there are many options available to individuals who are looking to get their career back on track, including:

• Apply for positions found on websites and in publications;
• Self employment;
• Start a new business venture; or
• Gain further qualifications by attending college or university (subject to time and finances).

Absence from the jobs market can have a detrimental effect on CVs, especially if the absence was a prolonged one. The Access Environment Supporting Information section describes in detail how to write a CV and also includes vital information on how to prepare for,and be successful at, interviews and aptitude tests.

Submitting an up to date CV to recruitment agencies may also prove effective for getting a head start. It is also important to consider taking a job that isn't a first option as money often becomes the driving factor.

IEMA membership will be useful in demonstrating to employers commitment to the professional development and the environment. To find out which IEMA membership level is most relevant to an individual's knowledge and experience, visit IEMA's Membership Planner.

The Access Environment section on Studying at University will be a vital resource when choosing the right training provider in order to boost professional development. In case of redundancy there is further support available through local Council's Redundancy Support Units, which link into other Government departments such as Local Development Agencies, Business Link, JobCentre Plus and the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).