253| Getting Back Into the Workforce After a Break with Heather Nemelka

Future Female Leaders

Check out the Career Growth Guide to grow in your career.

In this episode, Nichole Harrop sits down with Heather Nemelka, a single mother of five who re-entered the workforce after an 18-year break. Heather shares her inspiring journey of navigating career pivots, regaining confidence, and launching her own business, Elevare, to help women—especially single mothers—return to the workforce.

Heather discusses the challenges she faced, including the self-doubt that comes with re-entering the workforce after a long break. She offers actionable advice on using informational interviews to build confidence, making career pivots, and leveraging networking to grow professionally. Heather's story provides valuable insights for anyone looking to re-enter the workforce or pivot careers.

Key Takeaways:

• Informational Interviews: Heather explains how conducting informational interviews helped her gain confidence, network, and land her first role after her career break.
• Building Confidence: Heather highlights the importance of “borrowing confidence” from those around you and using past experiences as evidence of your abilities.
• Networking: Heather shares practical tips for expanding your network, including attending free local events, volunteering, and making meaningful LinkedIn connections.
• Affirmations and Self-Belief: Heather emphasizes the power of positive affirmations in overcoming self-doubt and rebuilding confidence.
• Reframing Experience: Mothers returning to the workforce can leverage the skills they've gained during their time at home to showcase value in the professional world.

Resources Mentioned:

• Elevare: Heather’s business focused on helping women, particularly mothers, return to the workforce. Visit www.elavare.com for more information.
• Career Growth Guide: Nichole’s resource to help you focus on skill development and career conversations with your leader.

Connect with Heather Nemelka:

• Website: www.elavare.com
• LinkedIn: Heather Nemelka

Connect with Nichole Harrop:

• Website: hellogrowvio.com
• LinkedIn: Nichole Harrop