The Tech Comeback Playbook
What We Learned from Our Power Hour with Prerna Goyal
Returning to tech after a break can feel like stepping onto a moving train.
Tools have evolved.
Job descriptions look intimidating.
Confidence takes a hit.
In this week’s Power Hour, Prerna Goyal, QA Engineer at Infoblox, shared how she navigated her return. No dramatic reinvention. Just focused preparation, smart upskilling, and consistent action.
Here’s the practical playbook.
1. Confidence Comes from Evidence, Not Affirmations
Prerna rebuilt confidence the boring way. By doing the work.
After every interview, she asked herself:
- What did I struggle with?
- What did I answer well?
- What concept needs revision?
- How can I improve before the next round?
Then she studied only what mattered.
Not everything. Not random tutorials. Targeted revision.
Try this:
Keep an “Interview Debrief” doc. Every rejection becomes data.
2. Upskill With Structure, Not Panic
Tech is wide. Panic learning is real.
Prerna’s approach was layered:
Start with fundamentals.
Then move into automation.
Then build mini projects.
Then validate with certifications like ISTQB.
She did not jump into advanced tools without understanding the core.
That’s key.
AI tools like ChatGPT? Helpful.
GitHub Copilot? Useful.
But only after you understand what the code is doing.
Otherwise, you are memorizing answers, not building skill.
3. How to Use AI Without Letting It Use You
Prerna leveraged AI strategically.
She used it to:
- Clarify concepts
- Practice interview questions
- Validate solutions
- Explore unfamiliar tech like Kubernetes
Before using AI, ask:
- Do I understand the concept?
- Am I solving the right problem?
After using AI, ask:
- Can I explain this myself?
- Can I implement this independently?
If the answer is no, go back.
AI should strengthen your thinking. Not replace it.
4. Handling the Career Gap Question
How you talk about your break can make a big difference in how interviewers perceive your candidacy. Frame your break positively and unapologetically.
Here’s how Prerna framed her break :
She chose to prioritize her family, consciously and without guilt.
She managed her time intentionally, creating structure in her day.
She upskilled consistently and prepared for her return.
She stayed connected to the industry and confident in her identity
That’s it.
No apology. No over-explaining.
If you are in the US navigating work authorization delays, she also suggested:
- Learning a new domain (she explored networking security through YouTube)
- Invest in educational opportunities that align with your goals to stay market-ready
- Starting a small initiative, project, or even a hobby that shows initiative
A gap with growth attached feels different.
5. Balance Job Search and Skill Building
Many returners swing to extremes:
Only applying.
Or only studying.
Prerna balanced both.
Here’s a simple rhythm:
- Dedicated application time
- Separate resume tweaking blocks
- Short, consistent coding practice sessions
- Daily concept review, even 20 minutes
Consistency > intensity.
6. What Made the Returnship Different
Prerna returned through the Women Back to Work program at Infoblox.
She highlighted:
- Prep sessions before interviews
- Mock interviews
- Post-hire support
- Peer mentorship
- A collaborative culture
- Her “Blox buddy”- a peer at Infoblox who could answer questions and help her navigate the company
Structure reduces overwhelm. Support reduces imposter syndrome.
7. Skills QA Returners Should Pay Attention To
Based on the discussion, high-value areas include:
- Automation testing
- Performance testing
- Core programming fundamentals
- Kubernetes awareness
- AI-integrated workflows
You do not need to master everything.
Even learning one new term a day keeps you moving forward.
The Real Takeaway
Prerna did not wait to “feel ready.”
She prepared.
She reflected.
She adjusted.
She kept going.
Career breaks do not erase capability.
But confidence needs proof.
Build the proof. Reach out to us today. https://womenbacktowork.org/job-seeker/join/