Resume Refresh: A Returner’s Guide to Showcasing Your Comeback
Returning to the workforce after a career break is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you took time off for caregiving, personal growth, or other reasons, your experience still holds value. The key is to craft a resume that reflects your strengths, transferable skills, and readiness for today’s job market.
At Women Back to Work (WBW), we’ve helped countless returners confidently re-enter the workforce. And here’s some great news—WBW has partnered with Infoblox, a leader in cloud-first networking and security solutions, to offer a returnship program designed for professionals returning to the workforce after a career break.
This collaboration provides opportunities for returners to refresh their skills and re-enter the technology industry. The program includes tailored skill development, workshops, and resources to support a successful transition back into the workforce.
If you’re preparing to restart your career, here’s how you can refresh your resume and make your application stand out!
1. Address the Career Break with Confidence
Many returners worry about how to explain a gap in employment. The good news? Companies today recognize and value career breaks. Here’s how to handle it:
✅ Use a “Career Break” Section – Instead of leaving a gap, include a section titled “Career Break” with a brief explanation such as:
Career Break | 2019–2024
Focused on professional development, caregiving, and upskilling through courses and volunteer work.
✅ Emphasize What You Gained – Did you take courses, volunteer, freelance, or manage projects during your break? These experiences showcase transferable skills like leadership, organization, and adaptability.
2. Highlight Transferable Skills & Relevant Experience
Even if you’ve been out of the workforce, your past experience is still valuable. Focus on skills that are relevant today and use industry keywords to align with job descriptions.
🔥 Examples of Transferable Skills:
- Project Management
- Leadership & Team Collaboration
- Communication & Stakeholder Management
- Digital & Technical Skills (Excel, CRM, Data Analysis, etc.)
- Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking
3. Use a Skills-Based Resume Format
A functional or hybrid resume format works best for returners. Instead of focusing only on work history, emphasize skills and accomplishments first.
📌 Example Structure:
– Professional Summary – A powerful 2–3 sentence introduction about your strengths.
– Key Skills & Achievements – Highlight what makes you a strong candidate.
– Work Experience – Focus on impact, not just responsibilities.
– Career Break – Briefly explain your time away.
– Education & Certifications – Include any upskilling or courses completed.
4. Tailor Your Resume for Every Role
Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all resume. Use keywords from job descriptions and customize your resume to match the role you’re applying for.
💡 Tip: Many companies, including Infoblox, are returner-friendly. If you’re applying to a returnship opportunity, highlight why you’re excited about re-entering the workforce and how your skills align with their needs.
5. Add a Strong Summary Statement
Your resume summary is the first thing recruiters see, making it a powerful opportunity to showcase your strengths and career readiness. A well-crafted summary should be concise, impactful, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Instead of simply stating your past roles, focus on your skills, achievements, and what you bring to the table as a returner.
Your Comeback Starts Now!
Your resume isn’t just a document—it’s your personal brand. Take the time to refine it, highlight your value, and confidently apply for opportunities. WBW’s partnership with Infoblox is actively creating pathways for returners like you to restart their careers with the right support and resources. Reach out to us today.