Do you know someone with a similar story?

Janet* spent 10 years working as a biotechnology representative before taking a hiatus to have 2 children. A full-time mum for 5 years, with expenses mounting she needs to return to work. Janet believes that her skills are outdated; she is afraid she will re-enter at a junior position and minimum pay. Her questions are common for someone in her situation:

What is my time worth? Should I invest in retraining or re-enter at a lower level and work my way back up? Can I afford to do that?
How is the marketplace different? Are there new opportunities?
My network is gone; who can help me understand my options and make connections?

Elaine’s* husband delivered an emotional bombshell 8 months ago: he was leaving her. While he was both willing and obligated to provide child support, his financial commitment to her would end as soon as he could make it happen. After an 18-year hiatus from the insurance industry, she has to return to work. For her, the questions are big:

•   How can I support myself and eventually maximize my income with the skills I have?
•   What do I WANT to do…eventually?
•   What do I HAVE to do … now?

When Greta’s* mother became terminally ill, she quit her job and became the primary caregiver. She was ready to change jobs anyway, and she knew that time with her mother was limited. Now she’s on her own again, her savings are almost gone, and it’s time for Greta to move into her next life. She has fears around her ability to confidently re-enter the workplace after 3 years of unpaid service, especially not knowing exactly what she wants:
 
•   How can I combine my new talents & interests with my previous skills to find meaningful work?
•   How can I find work I enjoy and still be able to support myself?
•   How do I work out a map and stay focused as I move ahead?

*composites of stories told by women helping us to develop this program.