What is the best time for you to take career break?

A career break is a period of time when one chooses not to work. Traditionally the term was used for women who left their careers temporarily to raise children. Career breaks, sometimes called sabbaticals, give one time to travel, study abroad, or do volunteer work. However, in today's struggling economy, a career break has become a nice way to say, "laid off."
Reschedule Your Career
The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that 9.6% of the labor force is currently unemployed. Last year, 3.8 million Americans lost their jobs. Now there is a large and growing number of people left wondering what can be done to make themselves more employable during a "career break." Involuntary career breaks can be a scary time in the life of someone who is unemployed. Bills go unpaid and your resume begins to look bare during your employment gap. Don't be discouraged. Most people find themselves unemployed at one time or another. During the time off, use the time wisely and take advantage of the many educational and training possibilities that can increase your marketability in your particular field.

While nothing can guarantee a job after lay off, several things can be done to increase your chances. First, stay current and informed about your industry. Read magazines, trade publications and even do research online. Further, it is important to stay in touch with persons in your field while being off. Join a professional organization within your area of expertise. This is a great way to network and possibly find out about job leads and open positions. The professional organization may also offer educational training in your field that will hone your skills. List this training on your resume. This will show potential employers your initiative and determination to stay current while unemployed.

Another option for a career boost is to go back to school and complete a degree or even begin a course of study in a totally different field. Due to the economic downturn, most job hunters know that it is hard to obtain a position without a diploma. Another added benefit to having a college degree is the potential of earning 50% more than those who only have a high school diploma. Does a degree guarantee a job? No, but it will put you at an advantage compared to those who chose not to continue their education after being fired or laid off.

Third, consider offering your skills on a voluntary basis. Just because you are not getting paid doesn't mean your contributions will go unnoticed. Volunteering will also boost your resume.

Finally, consider starting your own business or becoming a consultant in your field. This is a great way to stay in touch with associates and even former co-workers. The greatest advantage to this strategy is that relationships will be formed with different companies and you may be considered for full-time positions as they open up. Keeping yourself visible and available will increase the odds of getting a position in the future.

A lay off can seem like a financial and even an emotional disaster.  However, with some drive and determination, a career break can turn into the opportunity to further one's education and work skills.