Returning to work after a long break
How should my resume differ when I apply to a returner programme instead of a normal job?
Be more open about the break. Returner programmes are designed for people with a career gap, so you can state it plainly instead of working around it.
Adjust these parts:
- Summary: say what you did before, that you are returning, and what you want now. Example: "Chartered accountant with nine years in audit and reporting, returning after a career break to raise my family. Recently refreshed IFRS knowledge and Excel modelling."
- Experience: keep your strongest pre-break roles detailed, with results.
- Recent activity: add courses, volunteering or projects from the last year or two.
- Career break line: a short dated entry such as "Career break, 2017 – 2025: family" is normal here.
Also read the programme's description and use its own words for the skills it wants, as long as they are true of you.
Reviewed · by the ResumeBuilder.ae editorial team
Templates to try
Free to edit and preview. Single-column layouts are the safest choice for applicant tracking systems.

ATS Modern
Single column

ATS Professional
Single column

ATS Classic
Single column
General guidance for job seekers, not legal or immigration advice. Employers and applicant tracking systems differ, so always follow the instructions in the job advert. Spotted a mistake? Email support@jobb.ae.
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