Hidden Talent: Why Candidates with Career Breaks Deserve a Second Look

In today's fast-moving world, companies that overlook candidates with career breaks are stuck in an outdated, counterproductive way of thinking. It's time to change that mindset and tap into the hidden talents these candidates bring!

In a constantly changing world, where flexibility and adaptability are the keys to success, it is surprising that some companies still dismiss candidates who have taken a career break. This rigid, old-fashioned view is not only unproductive; it can also hold back a company's growth and development. As an HR expert and entrepreneur with hundreds of hires under my belt, I will explain why we need to change our mindset and stop judging candidates by the continuity of their work history.

The reasons for career breaks are varied and often relevant

There are countless reasons someone might take a career break: raising children, caring for family members, health issues, education, travel or exploring other fields of interest. All of these experiences can help build valuable skills and competencies, such as empathy, adaptability, time management, resilience under pressure and analytical thinking.

Career breaks can bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas

Candidates who have taken career breaks can bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to a company. They can contribute to a diverse organisational culture while fostering understanding of, and adaptation to, new market challenges.

Skills and experience matter more than continuity

Instead of focusing on an unbroken career path, companies should focus on candidates' skills and experience. Assessing what is truly relevant helps employers recognise a candidate's real potential and the added value they can bring to the team and the business.

Flexibility and adaptability are essential in a changing world

A career break can show that a candidate is flexible and adaptable, two essential qualities in an ever-changing world. Employees who adjust quickly to change and handle the unexpected effectively are invaluable to any company.

How career breaks can signal passion and commitment

Candidates who stepped away from work to pursue other projects or interests can be seen as passionate, committed people. They can demonstrate an ability to pursue and achieve long-term goals, which is essential for a company's success. An employee who sustains a high level of commitment and passion for their work will also be a positive role model for the rest of the team.

Building an inclusive organisational culture

Understanding and accepting career breaks is key to building an inclusive organisational culture. Encouraging diversity and inclusion can lead to greater employee satisfaction, loyalty and retention, as well as stronger collaboration and innovation.

An opportunity to attract top talent

If we limit ourselves to candidates with uninterrupted work histories, we risk missing out on top talent who could make a significant impact on the company's success. What's more, adopting an open, flexible mindset in recruitment can help attract valuable candidates who might not otherwise have applied.

It's time to change how we view candidates with career breaks and recognise that these pauses can bring real benefits and opportunities to companies. By focusing on skills and experience rather than career continuity, we can build a more diverse, inclusive and innovative culture and, ultimately, boost companies' success and competitiveness in an ever-changing world.

Recommended reading

• Back on the Career Track: A Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms Who Want to Return to Work by Carol Fishman Cohen and Vivian Steir Rabin – practical strategies and advice for mothers who want to return to work after a career break.
• Your Career Break: A Practical Guide to Returning to Work After a Break by Lorna Dockerill – helps readers prepare for a strong comeback, covering topics such as updating skills, refreshing your CV and preparing for interviews.
• The Encore Career Handbook: How to Make a Living and a Difference in the Second Half of Life by Marci Alboher – resources and inspiration for anyone looking for a new career after a break or retirement, with a focus on work that makes a positive difference in society.
• The Career Comeback: Repackage Yourself to Get the Job You Want by Lisa Johnson Mandell – advice on how to "repackage" your personality and professional experience to return to the job market and land the job you want.