Should I List My Career Break on My LinkedIn Profile?

“Career break” has become an official professional status on LinkedIn. Why?

So many people now take career breaks. Therefore, masking them is unnecessary.

Work relations are like people relations. For example, sometimes distance is needed to regain passion and restart strongly.

Are Career Breaks Increasingly Accepted In Professional Circles?

This exposure given to career breaks is not without a reason. According to a global survey of 22,995 workers and 4,017 hiring managers conducted by Censuswide on behalf of LinkedIn (January 2022), the majority of professionals active today took a break at least once in their careers.

Moreover, the recent report by ManpowerGroup reveals that 84% of Millennials plan significant career breaks for the future. You are part of the majority. Thus, recruiters should appreciate your honest professional story!

Can taking career breaks be beneficial for your career? Yes! Here are some potential advantages:

Rest and Rejuvenation: A career break allows you to recharge both physically and mentally. Indeed, it can help reduce burnout, stress, and fatigue, ultimately improving your overall well-being.

Perspective and Reflection: Stepping away from your routine provides an opportunity for reflection. You can assess your career goals, values, and priorities, gaining clarity on what you want from your professional life. This kind of reflection is really at the heart of finding purpose in your professional life. According to a study published in the Academy of Management Discoveries, professionals who took sabbaticals of at least several weeks moved through distinct phases of recovery, exploration, and practice that shaped how they approached their careers afterward.

Skill Development: Depending on how you spend your career break, you may acquire new skills. Training or personal projects are options. In addition, these enhance skills and boost versatility.

Personal Growth: Career breaks often coincide with periods of personal growth. Whether you’re traveling, volunteering, or pursuing hobbies, these experiences can broaden your perspective and enrich your life. Experiences like these are often where people first practice how to build self-awareness for growth.

Career Change or Pivot: Career breaks offer time. Therefore, you can explore different industries or paths. It can be a strategic move if you’re considering a career change or pivot.

Entrepreneurship: Some individuals use career breaks to start their own businesses. Furthermore, this time is good for entrepreneurship. For example, you can turn a passion into a full venture.

Family and Personal Commitments: Career breaks can be essential for fulfilling family responsibilities, such as raising children or caring for a family member. Indeed, this time can strengthen personal relationships and contribute to a more balanced life.

Improved Mental Health: Taking a break from work-related stressors can positively impact your mental health. In fact, it provides an opportunity to address and manage mental health concerns and build resilience.

Networking and Relationship Building: Depending on how you spend your career break, you may have the chance to build new relationships and expand your network. Also, networking can open up new opportunities when you decide to re-enter the workforce.

Increased Job Satisfaction: A well-timed career break can lead to increased job satisfaction upon returning to work. Taking time off to pursue personal interests or address burnout can help you return to your career with renewed enthusiasm.