The Power of Networking—and Why the WBW Conference Is the Right Place to Start
For many professionals returning to the workforce after a career break, the biggest challenge isn’t always the gap on the résumé. It’s the gap in connections.
Careers are often built not just on skills, but on relationships—conversations that lead to referrals, introductions that open doors, and mentors who offer timely advice. In today’s job market, networking remains one of the most effective ways to discover opportunities, gain insights, and rebuild professional confidence.
Why Networking Matters More Than Ever
While job boards and online applications have their place, many roles—especially at competitive companies—are never posted publicly. Instead, they’re filled through referrals or internal connections. Building a strong professional network can help you access these “hidden” opportunities, while also giving you valuable context about what different companies are looking for.
For returners, networking is also a chance to re-establish your professional identity. Whether it’s catching up with former colleagues or meeting new peers, these conversations help shift the focus from your time away to what you’re ready to do next.
But effective networking isn’t just about asking for help. It’s about exchanging ideas, offering your perspective, and being part of a larger professional community again. And the good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
There’s no shortage of networking advice out there—but not all of it speaks to the unique experience of returning to work after a career break. That’s why we’ve put together a networking guide tailored specifically for returners.
These are the tips and strategies that resonate with our returner community—practical, relatable, and proven to work. From conversation starters to making the most of networking events like the WBW Conference, it’s a resource worth bookmarking.
Read the full guide here: How to Network – WBW Returner Guide
A Conference Designed for Returners
The Women Back to Work 2025 Conference—happening on August 21st in Santa Clara, CA—is built around the idea that returners deserve dedicated spaces to connect, learn, and grow.
At the event, you’ll meet:
- Talent acquisition professionals and hiring managers from leading companies are actively looking to hire returners
- Fellow professionals who understand the return-to-work journey firsthand
- Mentors, speakers, and coaches offering guidance through practical career comeback sessions
Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to start interviewing, this conference is a chance to build relationships that could shape your next step—and the one after that.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Showing Up
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don’t need a perfect elevator pitch. You just need to show up and be open to conversations.
The Women Back to Work Conference offers a supportive, focused environment to do just that—surrounded by people who want to see you succeed.
Register today and take the next step in your career comeback.
📍 August 21, 2025 | Santa Clara, CA
Let’s make your return to work a shared success.
