Returning to Work: Keep developing yourself
Returning to Work: Keep developing yourself
Hajra Khan chats to us about her journey from being a highly sought after Electrical Engineer to taking a career break, returning to work, developing herself, and some good advice for others.
Name: Hajra Khan
Career break: 14 years all together (12 yrs +2 years career break)
Company placed into: Ramboll UK
New role: Project Manager
TELL US ABOUT YOU BEFORE YOUR CAREER BREAK?
I am an Electrical Engineer from Pakistan, worked as a Design Manager for over 4 years in the Telecom Sector. I started my job as a fresh graduate and very quickly moved up and was promoted as Manager, lead a team of over 20 Engineering professionals. I was awarded Best Planning Engineer for two consecutive years before being promoted to Assistant Manager and then Planning Manager.
I then took a career break when moved to Scotland to look after my young family.
WHAT DID YOU DO DURING YOUR CAREER BREAK?
I completed my second undergraduate degree in Business management (with Distinction) and started my journey towards acquiring Prince 2 certification.
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE INSURANCE RETURNERS PROGRAMME?
Online search (Good old Google)
HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE GOING THROUGH THE RETURNER PROGRAMME – FROM INTERVIEWS WITH INCLUSIVITY ALL THE WAY THROUGH TO GETTING YOUR ROLE?
The Inclusivity Team has been very supportive throughout the process. I am so grateful that they arranged an interview after the application submission, they made sure that they understood my background, understood my reasons for taking a career break and offered tailored support to me.
The help and support from Inclusivity has been incredible throughout the process from interviews, landing into a role with Ramboll, and throughout the probationary period.
ANY ADVICE FOR OTHERS?
My only advice to others (especially returners) is to “never give up”. I know it’s a very hard journey searching for jobs (especially after a career break), where you have to face refusals most of the time.
But for me the secret to success is “JUST KEEP GOING AND KEEP DEVELOPING YOURSELF”.
I know its hard to deal with refusals, but just gather yourself and work even harder the next time, and remember to keep developing yourself professionally, courses, webinars, volunteership, anything that is accessible for you. You will succeed one day, as “there is always light at the end of the tunnel and a sunshine after a dark night”.
Stay positive.
Ramboll is a client that Inclusivity has worked with for some time and we have excellent connections with many of the UK’s top employers. If you are on a career break seeking to return we urge you to submit your C.V to us here. Or view all opportunities here, all candidates we place will receive our unique 1:1 coaching and on-going support to ensure your transition back to work with confidence.
