Joining up the Dots by Lisa Brown
If ever there was a day that highlighted the importance of programmes aimed at returners coming back into the workplace, then today was it.
Whilst the title on the schedule was ‘Networking Event’ between carefully selected leading organisations and returners (me included) on the Back2businessship Programme, this was far more than that.
For the companies that came to meet us, this was clearly a statement of positive intent. The power of them making time to get to know us was recognised, hugely valued and made us all the more determined to hopefully work with them again.
It was clear this was in no way a tick-box exercise. These companies recognise the value of returners coming back into their businesses and by doing so, helped us be clearer on our value too.
Now celebrating ten years since its creation, the Back2businessship programme, which is in my opinion truly transformational, was behind the magic of the day.
Created and run by visionaries, Amanda Fone and Liz Nottingham FIPA and supported by an amazing team, this programme understands returners better than anyone I’ve ever come across. Government please take note.
It acts as rocket fuel behind returners, who may be unsure of the pebble trail back to their careers after time-out. The programme is intensive and exhilarating, full of food for the brain, reflection, the latest industry knowledge and so much more.
Plus we got connected. Truly connected with each other and in so doing with ourselves. We met other alumni from previous years who understood our feelings and had jumped over the fence back into their careers and were making it work. This is where we started to really see the possibilities, that many of us, may have not thought possible.
Which takes me to back today.
To say I felt so proud of all of my fellow returners may sound sentimental. However watching everyone over the last number of days, I think we’ve all each taken our own versions of a quantum leap on the programme.
To the companies who were there as we landed, thank you. For you signalled – ‘Welcome back!’
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