Many women pause their careers for all sorts of reasons: raising children, caring for relatives, managing health, travelling, even pursuing personal goals. Returning to work after that break can stir a mix of excitement, nerves and uncertainty. Your skills, experience and growth haven’t vanished; they’re still your strengths. At Women in Estate Agency, we believe in the incredible power of women to achieve great things, and returning to work confidently after a career break is just one more way that women show their strength.
So, let’s get into how you can return to work with real confidence and control to help your transition feel easier.
Embracing Your Journey
Career breaks are part of life, not setbacks. Share your story calmly: explain why you took time away and focus on things you have developed during that time. Don’t come across as apologetic for taking a career break – own it.
Just because you weren’t in the office or dealing with clients, doesn’t mean you’ve not been continuously learning adaptable skills and traits. Maybe you coordinated schedules and budgets at home, organised community projects or volunteered in a charity. Those experiences build skills that translate well to estate agency roles.
Whatever you did, it has shaped your perspective and that’s valuable.
Once you’ve embraced where you are, it’s time to decide how you’re going to move forward.
Choosing Your Return Path
There’s no single right path. Some return full time, while others ease in part time, contract jobs or short projects. This can help rebuild confidence and reconnect with your skills. Many employers now offer return programmes with support built in to make your transition back to work easier.
Remember: it’s about what fits your current life stage and energy levels. Talk to people, mentors, ex-colleagues, about shadowing opportunities or trial days to get a feel for what feels right. What mattered in your twenties might not matter now. That’s not regression – it’s evolution. Be clear about what you want from your next role because the more honest you are with yourself, the easier it is to find a fit that actually works.
Refreshing Your Knowledge
The property industry changes fast, and catching up can feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to know it all, pick high-impact areas: read market reports, follow sector news, and explore short courses on CRM systems or digital portals. Showing that you’re proactive and curious, rather than apologising for being away, sends a strong positive message about your work ethic.
Updating Your Professional Presence
Revamp your CV and LinkedIn, so they reflect who you are today.
Use a clean, modern format and highlight what you’ve done, even during your break. Talk about volunteering, freelance work, mentoring or learning experiences. Tailor your application to each role. On LinkedIn, update your headline and “about” section, reconnect with colleagues, and consider writing a post on LinkedIn sharing your return-to-work journey. These posts often receive great support and start great discussions amongst others in the industry.
Mindset After a Break
Low confidence after a gap is normal, but even with a wobble, your skills remain valid. Try recalling specific wins from your past: how you delivered for clients, solved problems or built trusting relationships. Often, jotting down positive feedback or small successes helps when doubts start to creep in. Accept that you won’t feel 100% sure before applying – confidence grows in action. You need to believe in yourself and trust you know what you’re doing.
You’ll find plenty of advice and support in our weekly podcast. Here you’ll find confidence-building tips to stories from women who’ve made successful comebacks.
Reframing Your Ambition
Returning to work doesn’t mean lowering ambitions. Many returners find they’re clearer on what matters most and ready to aim higher than ever before.
Think about what kind of role energises you now, what culture suits your values or what progress looks like in the coming year. Set achievable goals, whether that’s meeting new people, finishing a course or applying for roles. Maybe you’re considering mentoring others: sharing your path can help others and boost your own development. You can also explore WiEA’s leadership training if you’re thinking about the next step in your career journey.
You might even discover a renewed sense of purpose. Many women return with greater focus, stronger boundaries, and better time management than ever before.
Reconnecting With Your Network
Word of mouth is powerful. Reach out to old colleagues, industry contacts, mentors and friends in property.
A great place to start? Our WiEA Facebook Group! It’s a thriving, friendly space where women support each other, share advice and post opportunities. Whether you’re browsing or speaking up, it’s a great way to feel connected and informed. You can also follow our updates on Instagram and LinkedIn to keep up to date with what’s happening.
Networking isn’t just for finding a job. It’s for learning, connecting, building confidence and visibility. Be open to new people. Be open to new opportunities. You never know who might open a door for you or whose door you might be able to open in return.
Knowing Your Rights
If returning from maternity leave or caring responsibilities, legal protections apply. For example, there’s the right to return to your old job or a suitable alternative, and since April 2024, you have the right to request flexible working from your first day in a new job.
If needed, ACAS and Citizens Advice provide clear and up-to-date guidance on issues like redundancy, workplace rights and flexible working requests.
Understanding your rights helps with confidence too. It puts you on level footing and reminds you that your return isn’t a favour, it’s a rightful step back into your career.
Together, We Thrive
Returning to work after a break is not about catching up. Take your time. Be kind to yourself. Tap into your network, refresh what you need, and go for it.
At Women in Estate Agency, we are here to raise everyone up to improve the sector for all. By embracing your skills and experiences, you are not only elevating your own career but also contributing to a brighter, more diverse, and inclusive future for the entire estate agency sector.
Join us in shaping this brighter future. Find your community, and together, let’s thrive.
