Career Break FAQ

We answer some key questions asked by Career Breakers.

Will it hurt my career?

The short answer is no, but it depends on your circumstances.
Taking a break from a career is no longer seen as a disadvantage on your CV, in fact many employers are starting to see it in a very positive light. Many larger employers are realising that the long term benefits of having staff return refreshed, revitalised and ready to continue their career far outweigh the short term loss - and smaller employers may well listen to what you have to say as well.
If you are changing careers, a career break could be a perfect chance for you to slow down and really think about what you want to do, again, if you do something worthwhile that will improve your CV, it can actually help you in your new career - especially if you volunteer for something that is relevant.

How long should my "break" be?

It's up to you, a career break can vary from months to years - it depends on what you want.
If you are taking a career break to see the world you should probably look at being away for no longer than 6 months. If however you are planning to work abroad or do some volunteering then your CV can stand a longer break. Basically we think that you should go for as long as you want, but always think about the effect your break will have on your career.

What should I do?

You can do pretty much anything you want!
Some people just take a break from the rat race to see the world with no intention of doing anything but sight seeing, other people choose to voluteer on one of the many worldwide projects or even work their way around the world doing jobs they've never done. You could do all of the above, all we recommend is that you think about 2 things at all times:

1 How will what I am doing look on my CV

2 What am I going to do when I get back.

Remember it is a "career break" - so you need to restart that career when you get back!

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