Returnships? They work for more than tech companies.

Returnships can provide access to a hidden talent pool that is searching for a way back to the workforce. Not sure what a returnship is? A returnship is similar to an internship, except it targets those who have been out of the workforce for a period of time for reasons as varied as sabbaticals, raising a family, and caregiving.  

Returnships are a win-win for those looking to return to the workforce and organizations with staffing shortages. Highly used in the tech industry, these opportunities quickly skill up returning-to-work professionals. Most programs run 12 to 16 weeks, are paid positions, and provide mentorship and training to get returnees up to speed with what’s changed since they left the workforce. This can work for healthcare (nursing, and other tech roles), administrative roles or finance/ accounting and many others. The retraining will vary but the model of helping people return to the workforce is the same.

Did your organization have people leave due to gaps in childcare during the pandemic? To help their kids through homeschooling? Or to be a stay-at-home parent? Some of those people may be ready to consider a return but need a skills refresh to feel confident.  Now is an ideal time to start prepping for a fall returnship class.

Here are a few things to consider:

- What positions make the most sense to target for returning professionals? Where does your organization have the most need – and the most potential for returnees?

- Do you have the internal expertise to design the quick skill-up that’s needed – or can you collaborate with an educational partner to develop a program?

- Do you have mentors available to provide guidance and support?

- Will your organization have the potential for full-time opportunities once the returnship is over?

Once you answer these questions, you are ready to start designing your program. If I can help – or you would like to talk through the possibilities of returnships, please connect with me or click here to schedule a consultation.