Resume Gap? Top Companies Offer Support and Opportunities for Career Restarts

Taking a career sabbatical is a crucial decision many make at different points in their lives, whether for personal reasons, family obligations, furthering their education, or simply pausing to reflect and recharge. However, taking a professional vacation brings concerns: what if I need help finding a good job when I return? What if the employment market isn't fantastic when I decide to return? While it is difficult to avoid such concerns, some employers provide programs to help employees move smoothly into the job market.

Top programs offered by firms to professionals returning from a career break

JP Morgan's ReEntry programme

JP Morgan The ReEntry Programme provides experienced professionals currently on a prolonged career break of at least two years and who want to re-enter the workforce with the necessary help and tools to relaunch their careers. The ReEntry Programme is a 15-week paid fellowship program from March to June, with the possibility of receiving a permanent job offer. The program includes professional skills courses, on-the-job training, coaching, and developing opportunities.  High-performing participants may also be able to secure employment with JP Morgan. Applications for the 2024 ReEntry Programme will close on 31 January 2024. 

Goldman Sachs' India Returnship Programme 

The Goldman Sachs Returnship program in India is designed for women returning to the workforce after a long break. This 12-week paid internship program provides an opportunity in several departments to increase technical skills, gain professional growth, and explore options at Goldman Sachs. 

The program includes the following: 

Twelve weeks of on-the-job training and exploration with a varied community of professionals from various backgrounds. Access to Goldman Sachs' enormous network of resources through ongoing leadership development, support, and mentorship from a dedicated Returnship program team. 

Help in the transition to a full-time job

Several workshops focused on developing community and ensuring a smooth transition back into the workforce. The Goldman Sachs' 2024 India Returnship Programme application deadline is 18 December 2023. The program is tentatively scheduled to take place between March and June 2024.

Encore programme by Barclays 

Encore! is one of Barclays' key diversity and citizenship initiatives.  The Barclays Encore program could be a fantastic fit for you if you are an experienced professional wishing to return to the workforce following a career sabbatical. You can learn more about the program by visiting the Barclays website or calling their human resources department. It welcomes applicants who have been out of the job for twelve months.