Returning to work at 45 after break & starting over

[greengrassalwaysis]

Hi

As the title suggests I've recently returned to work after a very long break (15 years interspersed with some volunteering and a couple of freelance short term contracts).

My main obstacle is my complete lack of confidence when conversing with colleagues, putting my ideas across, asking for explanations, speaking in meetings ... I just feel it's so glaringly obvious I've been out of the game for such a long time and though my knowledge and capability are there, I don't feel as though I'm very convincing.

I had a fantastic career in my twenties. I was in marketing for hotels and the work was fun and challenging and interesting. This time around I've begun a basic admin job, just to get myself back into the workplace - to see how it fits around the children and basically see if I can cut it.

The juggling has actually been fine - the hours work well around the children and they've been happy at wrap around care.

My problem is reconciling the very basic and junior job I am doing now at 45 years old. I am surrounded by a very successful peer group (who are nothing but encouraging and have worked hard to be where they are), but I wonder how realistic it is to think I might still be able to progress in my career starting from scratch at 45.

Inspiring stories welcome and I'd just love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this.

Bump

I went back to work in January at 55 after 15 years out. I am doing a clerical job, but there is an opportunity to progress if I want in different ways.

My boss is keen to utilise the skills people have gained before starting in the Civil Service, so my skills and previous experience won't be wasted.

I'm just happy that someone would give me a chance in my mid 50s with a 15 year gap as a trailing spouse on my CV.

That’s amazing. It’s not easy to go back after such a long gap. I feel the same - grateful I have a job after such a long gap. That was the biggest hurdle

I went back into a basic temporary admin job at 44 having been off for a similar time frame as you. Put my head down and worked hard as I had so much to prove to myself! Two and a half years and two promotions later I have a well paid permanent position that I love. I never would have thought it possible. Just lucky to be on a team that value older employees with lots of life experience! Don’t sell yourself short.

I joined in junior role at 42 after 14 year career break, retrained for professional level job at 46, progressed to management by 53.

It’s good to hear similar stories. You’ve both had amazing progression.

I don’t know anyone in RL who has considered returning to work. Those who I’ve been a SAHM with are sticking with SAH whereas I can’t imagine not working for the next 20 years.