QUESTIONS OF THE MONTH - MARCH

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Six Simple Steps To Take Before You Walk Out The Door

Q. I am newly pregnant with my second child and am planning to leave my career sometime after she is born.  I think I will eventually want to go back to work, is there anything I can do now to best position myself for a future return?

Ilene Schaffer On-Ramp Moms Ilene Schaffer’s passion and skills are centered around helping mothers get motivated and organized to create and reach their personal and professional goals. Prior to creating a practice exclusively for mothers in transition, Ilene counseled and advised students and alumni in higher education for 15 years. She holds a BA in Social Sciences from the University of California at Berkeley and an MA in Life Transitions Counseling from the University of San Francisco. Ilene has a private practice that specializes in mothers who are ready to rediscover, reinvigorate and/or recreate the self. Her clients share one common desire – to maintain their identity, health and wellness while nurturing a family. She is an advocate of creating a fulfilling life as opposed to reaching for the unrealistic notion of perfect balance. Ilene and her husband live on the peninsula with their two little girls. www.ileneschaffer.com

A.You have already taken the first critical step…you are anticipating a return and planning ahead!  Even for my clients who are not anticipating a return, I still encourage them to leave every door and opportunity open.  It is ideal to provide yourself with a foundation that allows for options.  Below you will find 6 simple steps that you can take before you step out the employment door:

• Update your resume so it is current (it is easy to forget accomplishments and job details after a leave).
• Continue to solidify strong connections with colleagues (within and outside your company)…create a list of your contacts with their phone, e-mail, title, etc.
• Attend any conferences or other educational opportunities to enhance your skill set and widen your network.
• Reflect on your work history and skills – are there any areas that you want (need) to develop before you leave.
• Consider staying connected to your company by doing some project based work from home …creatively think about needs that the company may have and how you can fill those needs while you are at home.
• Be gracious upon exiting!  In addition to letting your employer know how much you value the company and your experience, let them know your desire to return after taking time for family.