How can you explain a career gap of 2 years because of marriage/baby in an interview? Will they judge you for your choice?

Understand, that you are not alone and the job market is tough. Just wait for the right opportunity. Till that time, spend quality time with your child as much as possible.

People will always judge you no matter what. Do not worry about them.

As for the career gap, your confidence and ability to get your work done is what matters the most.

My advice to returning professionals from a career break (that is, if you feel it of any relevance):

  1. Do not let people bring you down by judging you from a career gap. It simply means that you deserve a much better deal and better off with narrow minded mentality.
  2. Parallel to job hunt, if possible, upgrade your skills and sharpen your knowledge. 2 years are not much but jobs dynamics change even in few weeks’ or even months’ time. You will be better off with an upgraded reservoir of knowledge. Apart from that, it also helps you maintain confidence and morale levels when faced with tough decisions.
  3. Sit with yourself and understand what is it you seek and have learned from managing your baby - more efficient time management skills, working under pressure, priority setting, etc. These skills will help you manage and keep a balance between family and professional life.
  4. If not full-time job, be open for opportunities initially such as freelance, part-time, etc.
  5. Keep networking. It won’t lead you anywhere but people hire whom they know.
  6. Set and maintain a routine just like you would be doing while going off for work. This will keep you disciplined and stress free.
  7. Never compromise. Never show that you have a lower hand just because you are returning from your maternity leave. Set your standards and maintain them. Higher the better. Only people who are seriously interested in you as an employee will reach out.
  8. Last but not the least, relax and take your time to pick that next profile that can add recognition to your work profile and relevant experience. This will help you up the corporate ladder.

Understand, that you are not alone and the job market is tough. Just wait for the right opportunity. Till that time, spend quality time with your child as much as possible. It will help you both professionally and personally.