Balancing career and personal life is a challenge for everyone, but for women, this balance often comes with additional responsibilities. The accountability of managing the home, caring for family members, and handling emotional well-being rests more on women, especially in India, where joint families are still common. This makes their professional journey unique and, at times, more demanding.

Through years of coaching and interacting with professionals, I have observed four major challenges that women face in their careers and how they can successfully navigate them.

1. Career Breaks and the Struggle to Return

Women often take career breaks due to personal commitments like maternity, caregiving, or further education. Unfortunately, many recruiters view these breaks negatively. With rapid advancements in technology, especially AI, even those actively employed find it hard to keep up with industry changes. A candidate returning from a long break may be perceived as outdated or lacking the latest skills. As a result, their resume might not even get noticed.

The Mistake Many Women Make

Many women make the mistake of jumping straight into job applications without preparation. Simply updating the resume and sending it out isn’t enough.

The Right Approach

A well-planned comeback strategy is essential. Women should start preparing at least six months before actively seeking a job. This includes:

• Understanding industry trends and how job roles have evolved
• Upskilling and getting familiar with new tools and technologies
• Identifying potential employers and networking with industry professionals
• Using LinkedIn effectively to reconnect and build meaningful connections

Several companies now offer internship programs for women returning from career breaks. These programs are designed to help them reintegrate smoothly into the workforce. Women should take full advantage of such opportunities.

2. Multitasking and Time Constraints

Even today, a large share of household and caregiving responsibilities fall on women – a reality that shouldn’t be, but still is. This means they must be efficient time managers. Even when they return to work, their responsibilities at home don’t reduce. Tasks like managing children’s schedules, caring for elderly family members, and household duties continue.

Solution: Prioritization and Delegation

Women are naturally good at organizing, but to excel in their careers, they must:

• Strengthen time management skills
• Prioritize tasks effectively
• Build a reliable second line of support at work to ensure work continuity
• Establish a strong support system at home

Being efficient in both personal and professional life allows women to manage expectations on both fronts.

3. Travel Constraints and Career Growth

Some job roles demand frequent travel, which can be difficult for women due to personal responsibilities. I recall coaching a senior audit professional, let us call her Simran with 17 years of experience. Her promotion required her to travel once a week, but she wasn’t in a position to do so.

How She Overcame It

Instead of declining the opportunity, she proposed an alternative. She had two capable team members who could travel on her behalf three weeks a month, while she handled travel responsibilities once a month. Thanks to technology, she remained virtually connected with them at all times. Her employer recognized her value and agreed to the arrangement.

Women facing similar constraints should:

• Build a capable second line of leadership within their teams
• Leverage technology to stay connected remotely
• Negotiate practical work arrangements based on their strengths

A well-thought-out approach can help women progress in their careers without compromising personal responsibilities.

4. Workplace Harassment (POSH)

A recent Economic Times report revealed a 22% rise in POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) complaints. While this increase means more women are finding the courage to speak up, it is also a stark reminder that workplace harassment remains a pressing issue. No one should have to feel unsafe or unheard at work. This is a conversation that needs to continue until every woman can work with dignity and confidence.

What Women Should Do

• Speak up and seek support: No one should endure harassment in silence. Companies are required to take POSH complaints seriously, but real change happens when women feel empowered to report issues. Speaking up helps create a safer workplace for everyone.
• Prioritize self-respect over fear: No job is worth compromising one’s dignity. If a company fails to act, women should not hesitate to escalate the matter through the right channels or seek opportunities in workplaces that truly respect and value them.
• Document everything: Keeping a record of incidents, emails, and messages can be crucial in ensuring complaints are taken seriously.
• Know your rights: Understanding workplace policies and legal protections under POSH laws can help women take informed action.
• Seek allies and mentors: A strong support network can provide guidance and emotional strength during difficult times.
• Participate in POSH awareness programs: Many organizations conduct workshops and training sessions to educate employees on workplace harassment. Women should actively participate to stay informed.
• Encourage a culture of zero tolerance: Speaking up not only helps the individual but also ensures that future employees feel safer in the workplace.

Final Thoughts

Women face unique challenges in their careers, but with the right approach and mindset, they can overcome them. Preparing for a comeback, managing time effectively, finding practical solutions to travel constraints, and standing up against harassment are key factors that can help them succeed.

With proper planning, networking, and confidence, women can not only navigate these challenges but also thrive in their careers.

That being said, if you’re looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of hiring, check out the free resources we offer to help you navigate recruitment effectively.

Check out my Empowering Women Masterclass (HRAI) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtK28FPD1G0

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A Real-Life Career Pivot Story

A few years ago, Ananya was thriving in her corporate finance job at least, that’s what it looked like on paper. She had a stable income, great colleagues, and a clear career path ahead. But every morning, she felt an unshakable heaviness. The excitement she once had for her work had vanished.

One day, after yet another exhausting workweek, she found herself sketching designs on a napkin at a café. She had always loved fashion but never thought of it as a viable career. That evening, she decided to explore the idea further. Over the next six months, she took online courses, networked with designers, and built a small portfolio.

It wasn’t easy leaving finance for fashion meant explaining her decision to skeptical family and friends, taking a pay cut initially, and stepping into an industry where she had no prior experience. But today, Ananya is a successful fashion entrepreneur, running her own design studio. She doesn’t dread Mondays anymore. Instead, she wakes up excited about the work she does.

If you resonate with Ananya’s story, you might be at a similar crossroads. So how do you know when it’s time for a career pivot?

Identifying the Right Time for a Career Pivot

1. Dissatisfaction with Current Role If you wake up dreading your work, feeling uninspired, or questioning your career path every day, it might be time for a change. This can stem from a lack of growth opportunities, no alignment with your passions, or an unhealthy work environment.
2. Burnout Constantly feeling drained, stressed, or overwhelmed with little sense of reward can be a clear sign of burnout. When work no longer feels like a fulfilling part of your life, a career pivot can reignite your energy and passion.
3. Market Shifts Industries evolve, and sometimes, job roles or skills that were once in demand become obsolete. If the industry you’re in is struggling or you’re finding it hard to adapt to new trends, it might be time to consider a pivot.
4. Desire for Greater Impact or Purpose Sometimes, you may reach a point where personal values no longer align with your job. If you’re seeking a deeper sense of purpose, contributing to a cause you care about, or wanting a more meaningful career, a pivot could open up these possibilities.

How to Make a Bold Career Change

1. Self-Reflection Before making any decisions, take time to reflect on your strengths, values, and passions. Assess what you truly want from your next role and what will fulfill you professionally and personally. This clarity will guide your next steps.
2. Leverage Transferable Skills Look at your current role through the lens of transferable skills. Many skills, like communication, leadership, project management, and problem-solving, are applicable in various industries and roles. A career pivot doesn’t mean starting from scratch—it’s about repurposing your strengths.
3. Networking and Research Connecting with people in your desired industry can provide valuable insights. Attend networking events, reach out to professionals who’ve made similar transitions, and research what skills or qualifications are in demand. Networking helps you understand the landscape and prepare for your next step.
4. Upskilling and Education In some cases, a career pivot requires acquiring new knowledge or certifications. Whether it’s taking online courses, attending workshops, or enrolling in degree programs, investing in your education can give you the confidence and tools needed for a successful career transition.
5. Set Realistic Expectations Making a career change isn’t instant. Be prepared for the challenges that come with starting fresh. This could mean taking a step back in terms of salary or position to gain experience. The key is to remain focused on the long-term benefits.
6. Create a Transition Plan Plan your pivot in stages. Set short-term and long-term goals, such as securing informational interviews, developing new skills, and applying for roles. Gradually phase out of your current role while working toward your new career.

Overcoming the Fear of Career Change

The fear of uncertainty can hold you back from making a career pivot, but remember that every successful career change began with someone taking the leap. The fear of the unknown will always exist, but it’s in those moments of uncertainty that growth happens. Having a clear plan and support system can help you navigate this fear and set you on the path to a fulfilling new career.

Conclusion

A career pivot is not just about leaving your current job behind; it’s about embracing new opportunities, expanding your skillset, and aligning your career with your passions. It’s a bold step, but with strategic planning, self-reflection, and the willingness to adapt, you can unlock a world of new possibilities.

If you’re considering a career pivot, take the first step today by reflecting on your desires, doing the necessary research, and setting actionable goals. The career of your dreams is out there waiting for you to claim it.

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