There are advantages and disadvantages to taking a full year off work. Be sure to weigh all aspects before you make a decision. Here you will find information about the advantages and disadvantages to taking a year off, the steps to follow, and how your employer can approve. We also discuss the process of re-entering workforce after a career transition.
The disadvantages of taking a year off from work
A year off work can be great for family time, but there are some things you should think about before you decide if it's the right choice. It is possible to earn a small salary, but you must save money for your expenses. Additionally, you will most likely have to stop receiving fringe benefits and benefits from your employer's pension plan. It's best to discuss the pros and cons of the option with your employer before making the decision.
Taking a year off work allows you to focus on what's important to you and allows you to gain additional maturity. However, you could lose important subject expertise. Taking a year off also makes you one year behind your peers.
What steps should you take?
A year off can be a great time to recharge your batteries and plan your career. It also allows you to travel and see new places. Before you can take that year off, however, you must first determine your financial situation. Knowing how much you can spend on traveling and other activities is key to making the most of your leave.
You may be eligible for sabbatical leave from your employer. These may last from four weeks up to six months. Check your company's guidelines for any violations. Talking to your superiors before you ask for leave can help with new ideas or improvements.
Apply for a leave from work
There are a number of steps to follow when requesting a leave of absence from work. Your HR department should first be consulted to confirm that your request will get approved. Once you've discussed your situation with HR, you should write a formal leave of absence request. Some companies have a specific form that you must fill out, while others will require you to write a letter.
The next step is to prove your worth to the company. Employers might not be willing to let go of you if you're a valuable employee. Remember to consider the long-term goals of your company. While you're away, you'll miss out on valuable opportunities. You'll also be penalized for any promotion opportunities that you miss.
After a career stop, returning to the workforce
After a year away, it can be daunting to return to work. But there are steps you can take to make the transition smoother. First, you need to determine your needs. Look at your education and work experience, and consider your skills, interests, strengths, values, and personal goals. Ask yourself what type of work activities you most enjoy.
Next, it is important to establish a network. You'll need to reach out to your past colleagues and classmates, as well as other professionals you may have lost touch with. LinkedIn and other social media platforms can help you connect with people that you have lost touch. Personalize your message when you're searching for a new job. Don't be transactional.