In today’s dynamic professional landscape, career breaks are becoming increasingly common. Many skilled individuals, particularly women, take time away from their careers for various personal reasons, from raising families to pursuing further education. Recognizing this valuable talent pool, a growing number of companies in India are introducing impactful Career Relaunch Program India initiatives, also known as returnship programs. These programs are specifically designed to bridge the gap for professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce, offering structured pathways back to fulfilling careers. This article explores the rise of career relaunch programs in India, highlighting key companies leading this change and the immense benefits these programs offer to both individuals and organizations.
Why Career Relaunch Programs are Gaining Momentum in India
The increasing prevalence of career relaunch programs in India reflects a significant shift in workplace dynamics and a growing awareness of the untapped potential within individuals who have taken career breaks. Several factors contribute to this positive trend:
- Recognizing Untapped Talent: Companies are realizing that individuals returning from career breaks bring a wealth of experience, maturity, and often, a renewed dedication to their professional lives. These programs tap into a diverse talent pool that might otherwise be overlooked.
- Addressing the Gender Gap: In India, like many other countries, women are disproportionately affected by career breaks, often due to family responsibilities. Career relaunch programs are instrumental in encouraging women to return to work and contribute to bridging the gender gap in various industries.
- Economic and Business Benefits: Hiring experienced professionals through relaunch programs can be more efficient and cost-effective than solely relying on entry-level recruitment. Returners often require less onboarding and can quickly contribute to company goals.
- Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Organizations are increasingly focused on building diverse and inclusive workforces. Career relaunch programs contribute significantly to this objective by bringing in professionals from varied backgrounds and experiences.
Top Companies in India Offering Career Relaunch Programs
Several leading companies in India have taken the initiative to launch career relaunch programs, demonstrating their commitment to supporting returning professionals. Here are some notable examples:
1. Amazon India – Amazon Rekindle Program
Amazon India’s Rekindle program is a prime example of a successful career relaunch program India. Specifically tailored for women professionals who have taken a career break, Rekindle offers a 16-week paid internship designed to facilitate their return to the tech industry. This program not only provides hands-on experience within Amazon but also includes mentorship and training to help participants refresh their skills and integrate back into the corporate environment. Successful completion of the internship can lead to full-time employment opportunities within Amazon.
https://www.amazon.jobs/en/landing_pages/rekindle
2. Goldman Sachs India – Returnship Program
Goldman Sachs India’s Returnship program is a globally recognized initiative that extends to India, providing a pathway for individuals who have been out of the workforce for at least two years. This career relaunch program India offers a 12-week paid internship across various divisions within Goldman Sachs. The program is structured to help returners update their industry knowledge, enhance their professional skills, and build valuable networks. Like other leading programs, the Goldman Sachs Returnship also offers the potential for conversion to a full-time role based on performance and available opportunities.
https://www.goldmansachs.com/worldwide/india/careers/india-returnship.html
3. Deloitte India – Encore Program
Deloitte India’s Encore program is a 16-week initiative focused on professionals who have experienced a career break of two years or more. This career relaunch program India provides a six-month paid internship experience within Deloitte, offering a structured environment for returners to reintegrate into the professional world. The Encore program is designed to refresh skills, provide industry-specific training, and offer mentorship, ultimately aiming to transition successful participants into full-time positions at Deloitte.
https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/careers/articles/join-deloitte-encore-program.html
4. SAP India – Career Restart Program
SAP India’s Career Restart program is specifically geared towards women professionals seeking to relaunch their careers after a break of two or more years. This career relaunch program India provides a three-month paid internship within SAP, focusing on providing relevant training and hands-on experience in the technology sector. The program is designed to empower women to update their skills in the rapidly evolving tech landscape and offers a pathway to potential full-time employment at SAP.
https://jobs.sap.com/go/SAP-Returnship-Program/5365101/
5. IBM India – Career Restart Program
IBM India’s Career Restart program is a comprehensive initiative supporting individuals who have been on a career break for more than two years. This career relaunch program India offers a 12-month paid internship, providing a substantial period for returners to adapt, learn, and contribute meaningfully. The program focuses on technology re-entry and aims to provide a supportive environment with mentorship and skill-building opportunities, potentially leading to full-time roles at IBM.
https://www.ibm.com/blogs/jobs/return-to-the-workforce-with-the-ibm-tech-re-entry-program/
6. Barclays India – Encore Program
Barclays India’s Encore program is a flagship diversity and citizenship initiative designed to facilitate career re-entry. This career relaunch program India offers individuals who have taken a career break the opportunity to refresh their skills through leadership and development training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program includes a paid working role for its duration, allowing participants to gain practical experience. Successful performance during the Encore program can lead to offers for permanent positions at Barclays.
https://search.jobs.barclays/return-to-work
Beyond the Big Names: Expanding Your Search for Relaunch Opportunities
While these large corporations offer well-structured programs, the landscape of career relaunch program India extends further. Platforms like Qween are also playing a vital role in connecting returners with opportunities. Qween’s ‘Rehire’ program specifically targets individuals impacted by layoffs, while their ‘Women Return in Tech’ (WRIT) program, in partnership with TNS India Foundation, supports skilled women re-entering the tech workforce.
To broaden your search for career relaunch opportunities, consider these strategies:
- Network Actively: Reach out to your professional network, attend industry events, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with companies and recruiters.
- Explore Job Boards: Many job boards now feature filters for returnship or career relaunch programs. Search using relevant keywords like “returnship,” “career restart,” and “women in tech.”
- Company Websites: Directly check the career pages of companies you are interested in. Many organizations now dedicate sections to diversity and inclusion initiatives, often highlighting returnship programs.
Tips for Successfully Re-entering the Workforce Through Relaunch Programs
Landing a spot in a career relaunch program India is a significant first step. To maximize your success:
- Update Your Skills: Identify any skill gaps and proactively seek opportunities to update your knowledge through online courses, workshops, or certifications.
- Refine Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills, addressing any career gaps transparently and positively. Focus on transferable skills and accomplishments.
- Practice Your Interview Skills: Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and focusing on showcasing your enthusiasm, adaptability, and value proposition.
- Network Internally: Once in a program, actively network with colleagues and mentors to build relationships and learn about potential opportunities within the organization.
Conclusion
Career relaunch program India initiatives are transforming the landscape of professional opportunities for individuals returning to work after a break. These programs are not just beneficial for returners; they are a strategic advantage for companies seeking to build diverse, experienced, and highly motivated teams. If you are looking to relaunch your career in India, explore these programs, leverage available resources, and take confident strides towards your professional goals. The opportunities are growing, and the time to relaunch your career is now.
