HBR IdeaCast Why Companies Need Returnship Programs (Back to Work, Better)
Sep 7, 2021
Carol Fishman Cohen, CEO of iRelaunch and expert on career transitions, discusses the increasing relevance of returnship programs, especially post-pandemic. She highlights how these initiatives help reintegrate professionals, particularly women, back into the workforce, addressing unique challenges faced after career breaks. Cohen shares best practices for organizations to implement these programs effectively and emphasizes their potential to enhance diversity and employee engagement, ultimately benefiting both companies and returning workers.
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Career Breaks are Normal
- Career breaks are normal and have become more common due to the pandemic.
- Companies with return-to-work programs are well-positioned to re-engage this talent pool.
Millennials and Career Breaks
- Millennials plan to take more career breaks than previous generations.
- Companies with return-to-work programs signal to employees that they support career breaks.
Return-to-Work Programs
- Create return-to-work programs, including returnships (internship-based) or direct-hire options.
- Include specialized transitional programming, mentorship, and events to support returning employees.