How to Re-Enter the Workforce Without Sacrificing Quality of Life

Maybe your job was affected by COVID-19; or you’re a parent or caregiver who voluntarily left the workforce to care for your family. Maybe you’ve gone back to school; or you were ill but you’re feeling better now. In the end, your reasons for leaving the workforce aren’t as important as the fact that now, you’re ready to come back.

There’s plenty to consider when you're wondering how to re-enter the workforce,

Do you have the relevant skills to be successful?
Are relevant sectors and businesses hiring in your region or do you need to move and if so, should you consider rural vs city living?
How will family adjust to the transition?
How to re-enter the workforce without sacrificing quality of life for yourself and your family?

Many skills training programs are accessible to job seekers in Ontario to help you get ready for re-entry, as well as resources to help spouses and families find work. But don’t neglect this important factor when you re-enter the workforce: quality of life.

How to Re-Enter the Workforce and Maintain Quality of Life In 3 Steps

1. Identify the sector(s) you want to work in. Whether you are re-entering the same sector you were previously employed in or want to explore new opportunities, you'll need to know who is hiring and where. If you already live or want to work in Ontario East you can access labour market tools like LMI Help Desks to learn more about:

the skills that are in highest demand,
the best training and education programs to focus your professional development,
the range of possibilities for the jobs in the sector
the viability of specific jobs in the sector
the best way to enter or transition into the career you're looking for

2. Acquire the skills you’ll need. When you leave the workforce for any amount of time, your skills are likely to stagnate; this is ok. Even if you hadn’t left the workforce, it’s likely that you would have been required to upskill or renew credentials in your field while on the job. The Ontario East region is rich in skills training programs for job seekers in all sectors.

Browse some of the skills training programs you can access in Ontario East:

3. Apply! Use job search tools like Magnet and platforms like LinkedIn to connect with employers and highlight your qualifications and skills. When you’re applying, it’s important to not only think about what you want to do but where you want to work. Look for jobs that:

provide opportunities for upward mobility; when you know that your employer is as invested in your career as you are, data suggests that you’ll perform better and be happier at work
go the extra mile to provide benefits and work-life balance for employees
operate in regions that are thriving to ensure your job security
make work-life balance easier; on average you’ll only work around 8 hours a day. What will you and your family do with the rest of your time? Apply for jobs that you’ll love in places that you’ll love to live.

We’re biased but might we suggest you take a look at some of the best places to live in Ontario like: Kingston (we've written about jobs in Kingston before), Kawartha Lakes, Cornwall, Brockville, the Bay of Quinte just to name a few of the incredible cities and towns in the region.

Ontario East is a triple threat for job seekers: with many job opportunities, skills training programs, and some of the highest quality of life in the country. Prioritize quality of life and Ontario East when you re-enter the workforce.