The professional landscape is constantly evolving, and career breaks are becoming increasingly common. Whether for family responsibilities, personal growth, or further education, taking time away from a career is a reality for many talented individuals. Recognizing this trend, and the immense potential within this experienced demographic, numerous companies in India are championing “Career Restart Programs,” also known as “returnship programs.” These initiatives are specifically designed to provide a structured pathway back to work for professionals who have taken a career hiatus.
These programs are not merely acts of corporate social responsibility; they are strategic talent acquisition tools. By tapping into the pool of experienced professionals seeking to relaunch their careers, companies gain access to a diverse skillset, fresh perspectives, and a workforce ready to contribute meaningfully from day one. Moreover, career restart programs actively address the gender gap in the workforce, as many individuals taking career breaks are women.
India is emerging as a significant hub for career restart opportunities. Below, we spotlight some of the leading companies in India that are actively investing in career restart programs, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity for professionals ready to return to the workforce.
Leading Companies in India Offering Career Restart Programs
Several prominent companies in India are leading the charge in offering structured career restart programs. These initiatives vary in duration and focus but share a common goal: to bridge the gap between career breaks and professional re-entry.
1. Amazon India – Rekindle Program
Amazon India’s Rekindle program is a flagship initiative aimed at empowering women professionals to confidently rejoin the workforce after a career break. This intensive 16-week paid internship is meticulously crafted to facilitate a seamless transition back into the professional sphere. Participants in the Rekindle program benefit from hands-on experience, mentorship from industry experts within Amazon, and opportunities to expand their professional network. Successful completion of the program can lead to full-time employment opportunities at Amazon, making it a highly sought-after career restart avenue.
2. Goldman Sachs India – Returnship Program
Goldman Sachs India demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity and diversity through its robust Returnship program. This program is tailored for individuals who have been on a career break for at least two years and are eager to reignite their professional journeys in the financial sector. The 12-week paid internship provides a platform to refresh skills, gain insights into the dynamic world of finance, and work on challenging projects. Similar to other leading programs, the Goldman Sachs Returnship can culminate in a full-time position offer based on performance and program completion.
3. Deloitte India – Encore Program
Deloitte India’s Encore program is a 16-week initiative specifically designed to support professionals returning to work after a career break of two years or more. This program emphasizes a supportive and growth-oriented environment, providing participants with a six-month paid internship. Encore by Deloitte focuses not only on updating technical skills but also on fostering leadership qualities and professional development. The program aims to reintegrate experienced talent into Deloitte’s diverse workforce, with potential conversion to full-time roles for successful interns.
4. SAP India – Career Restart Program
SAP India’s Career Restart program specifically targets women professionals seeking to relaunch their careers after a break of two or more years. Recognizing the valuable contributions women bring to the tech industry, SAP offers a three-month paid internship designed to update their technology skills and acclimate them to the current industry landscape. The program provides a supportive framework for women to confidently re-enter the tech workforce, with potential opportunities for full-time employment at SAP upon successful internship completion.
5. IBM India – Tech Re-Entry Program
IBM India’s Tech Re-Entry Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at professionals who have been on a career break for over two years. This longer 12-month paid internship signifies IBM’s commitment to providing a substantial runway for returners to fully reintegrate into the tech industry. The program is designed to update participants’ skills in cutting-edge technologies, provide mentorship from IBM’s experienced professionals, and offer a supportive network. IBM’s program emphasizes a smooth transition back to work, with potential for full-time roles after the internship period.
6. Barclays India – Encore Returnship Program
Barclays India’s Encore program stands out as a flagship diversity and inclusion initiative. This returnship program is designed to equip individuals returning from a career break with the necessary tools and support to successfully re-enter the workforce, particularly within the financial services sector. Barclays Encore provides leadership and development training, dedicated mentorship, and networking opportunities, alongside a paid working role for the program’s duration. This holistic approach ensures returners are well-prepared and supported, with qualified candidates potentially offered permanent positions at Barclays based on their performance and program feedback.
Benefits of Participating in a Career Restart Program
Career restart programs deliver significant advantages for both individuals and the companies that implement them.
For Individuals:
- Skill Refreshment and Upskilling: Programs offer opportunities to update skills and learn new technologies relevant to today’s job market.
- Confidence Rebuilding: A structured program helps rebuild professional confidence after a career break.
- Mentorship and Networking: Access to experienced mentors and networking opportunities expands professional connections and provides valuable guidance.
- Pathway to Full-Time Employment: Many programs offer a direct route to full-time positions upon successful completion of the internship.
- Financial Compensation: Paid internships provide financial support during the transition period.
For Companies:
- Access to a Diverse Talent Pool: Programs tap into a pool of experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
- Reduced Recruitment Costs: Hiring through returnship programs can be more cost-effective than traditional recruitment methods.
- Improved Gender Diversity: Programs actively contribute to bridging the gender gap in the workforce.
- Enhanced Company Reputation: Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility, enhancing employer branding.
- Experienced and Motivated Workforce: Returners are often highly motivated, experienced, and bring a fresh perspective to the workplace.
Choosing the Right Career Restart Program
For professionals looking to restart their careers, selecting the right program is crucial. Consider these factors when evaluating career restart programs:
- Program Focus: Align the program’s industry and role focus with your career goals and previous experience.
- Duration and Structure: Evaluate the program length and structure to ensure it fits your needs and provides sufficient time for skill refreshment and integration.
- Company Reputation and Culture: Research the company’s reputation, culture, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Support and Mentorship: Inquire about the level of support, mentorship, and networking opportunities provided within the program.
- Potential for Full-Time Employment: Understand the program’s track record and the likelihood of conversion to a full-time role.
Conclusion: Embracing Career Restart Programs for a Diverse and Dynamic Workforce
Career restart programs are more than just a trend; they represent a fundamental shift in how companies approach talent acquisition and workforce diversity. By offering structured pathways for professionals to return to work after a career break, these programs unlock a vast pool of untapped potential, benefiting both individuals and organizations. As India continues to strive for a more inclusive and dynamic workforce, career restart programs will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a future where experience and talent are valued, regardless of career paths taken.
If you are a professional seeking to relaunch your career, explore the programs highlighted above and take the first step towards revitalizing your professional journey. Companies are actively seeking your expertise – seize the opportunity!
