Returning to Work After a Long Parental Leave: How to Rebuild Confidence & Set Yourself Up for Success
Whether you’ve taken a few months or several years away from the workplace, returning after parental leave can feel both exciting and overwhelming. At Aldwych Consulting, we support professionals in construction, property and engineering every day, and we regularly help parents re-enter the workforce with confidence.
Here are our top tips to help you transition back smoothly and successfully.
1. Acknowledge That It’s Completely Normal to Feel Nervous
Many parents worry about how much has changed while they were away. New systems, new colleagues, and even new industry standards can feel daunting. Remember: returning talent always brings maturity, perspective, resilience and exceptional time-management skills. Any good employer knows this.
2. Rebuild Your Confidence Before You Step Back In
A few simple steps can help you feel work-ready again:
· Reconnect with your industry – read industry updates, attend a webinar, or speak to peers.
· Review your achievements – remind yourself what you were great at before your leave.
· Refresh your CV or LinkedIn – even if you’re returning to the same employer, this boosts confidence.
3. Ease in with a Clear Plan
Before you return, speak to your employer about:
· Your return date
· Any phased return or flexible working arrangements
· Updated responsibilities
· Training or re-onboarding support
A structured plan helps both sides feel aligned and eliminates unnecessary stress.
4. Re-learn the Rhythm of Work
It can take a few weeks to settle back into a routine. Be kind to yourself as your brain switches from “parent mode” to “work mode”. Try:
· Setting achievable goals for your first month
· Blocking time in your diary for focused work
· Asking colleagues for short refreshers where needed
Remember: your productivity will rise again — and often becomes even better than before.
5. Communicate Openly with Your Manager
If you need:
· Clarity
· Additional training
· Slight adjustments
· Help reprioritising
…ask. Managers would rather have transparency than guesswork. Returning parents are valuable; you deserve support as you transition.
6. Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Support Network
Speak to other parents at work, connect with return-to-work groups online, or reach out to a recruiter who understands the industry (we’re here if you need us!). Sharing challenges and wins with people who’ve been there makes a huge difference.
7. Consider a Fresh Start If Your Old Role No Longer Fits
Sometimes, during a long parental leave, priorities change. If your current employer can’t offer the flexibility, progression or work-life balance you need, it may be the right time to explore new opportunities.
At Aldwych Consulting, we regularly place talented returners into roles where they can thrive — both professionally and personally.
8. Celebrate the Wins — Even the Small Ones
Your first full week back, your first successful project, or your first moment of “I’ve got this” are all milestones. Acknowledge them. You’re doing something huge.
Returning to work after parental leave isn’t just a step — it’s a transition. With the right mindset, support, and structure in place, you can come back not only successfully, but stronger than ever.