In the modern job market, women returning to the workforce after a career break often find themselves at a disadvantage. From skill gaps to outdated resumes, many capable and experienced mothers struggle to re-enter their chosen professions. This is where Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work become incredibly valuable. These programs are designed specifically for professionals—especially mothers—who have stepped away from full-time work and are now ready to make a confident comeback.
What is a Returnship Program?
A returnship is essentially a professional internship designed for adults re-entering the workforce after an extended break. Unlike entry-level internships, returnships are structured programs aimed at individuals who already have prior work experience. These programs generally last from a few weeks to several months and include hands-on assignments, mentorship, and skill-building workshops.
Most importantly, returnships are not just about easing someone back into the workplace—they’re about reintegrating skilled talent into positions where they can truly thrive.
The Origin of Returnships
The concept of returnships was pioneered by Goldman Sachs in 2008 with the launch of their official “Returnship® Program.” This innovative initiative was built to address a noticeable gap in the professional world: highly skilled individuals, especially women, who left the workforce temporarily to raise families or care for loved ones but were struggling to return.
Since then, other forward-thinking companies across tech, finance, healthcare, and legal sectors have adopted the model and tailored it to their industry needs.
Who Are These Programs For?
While returnships are open to anyone who has taken a break from full-time employment, they are particularly tailored for mothers who paused their careers for parenting. Typical candidates include:
- Women who took time off for maternity and childcare
- Caregivers who had to step away to support aging parents or family health crises
- Professionals who relocated and paused work due to family transitions
- Women who left the workforce due to burnout but are now eager to return with a fresh mindset
In short, returnship programs for moms returning to work are crafted with empathy, structure, and purpose—recognizing both the career gap and the untapped potential these women bring to the table.
Common Features of Returnship Programs
Though program structures vary by company, most returnships share the following key elements:
- Defined Duration: Usually between 8 to 24 weeks
- Mentorship: Each participant is paired with an internal mentor for guidance and support
- Skill Re-training: Workshops or online modules to update technical or professional skills
- Project-Based Work: Real, impactful work assignments to rebuild confidence
- Evaluation for Full-Time Role: Performance is assessed, often leading to a permanent job offer
Industries That Embrace Returnships
While returnships initially gained traction in finance and tech, they have now expanded into many other sectors, including:
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Legal and Corporate Services
- Education
- Marketing and Communications
- Government and Nonprofits
Companies like Amazon, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, PepsiCo, and Deloitte are now actively offering structured returnship opportunities around the globe.
Why Moms Need Returnship Programs
Stepping away from the workforce to raise a child is one of the most rewarding decisions a woman can make—but returning to work afterward can be equally daunting. For many women, the path back to employment is filled with uncertainty, self-doubt, and industry shifts that occurred while they were away. That’s why Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work are not just helpful—they’re essential.
These programs recognize the unique challenges mothers face when transitioning back to professional life and provide the tools, resources, and support needed to make that transition smoother and more successful.
The Career Break Dilemma
Mothers who pause their careers to raise children often find that their resumes now include a gap—a gap that doesn’t reflect their capabilities but may raise questions for hiring managers unfamiliar with the value of unpaid labor, such as parenting.
This career gap can lead to:
- Decreased confidence
- Limited access to new opportunities
- Bias during job application screening
- Outdated skills due to fast-paced industry changes
- Reduced professional network access
Returnship programs actively counter these issues by validating the experiences and potential of returning moms.
The Confidence Factor
After spending months or years immersed in family life, many moms experience a dip in professional confidence. They may question:
- “Are my skills still relevant?”
- “Will I be taken seriously by employers?”
- “Can I manage work and home again?”
Returnship programs help moms ease back into the working world with supportive mentors, structured training, and the chance to prove themselves in real work situations. With every new skill learned or task completed, confidence grows—quickly transforming uncertainty into enthusiasm.
Bridging the Skills Gap
Technology and workplace tools evolve rapidly. A mom who was once a pro at Excel or Google Ads may now find herself unfamiliar with the latest industry platforms, software, or methodologies.
Returnship programs address this by:
- Offering refresher courses and hands-on training
- Providing access to new tools and workflows
- Teaching soft skills like digital communication, time management, and team collaboration in remote settings
By the end of a returnship, most participants not only catch up but often exceed expectations due to their previous work experience and motivation to succeed.
Combating Hiring Bias
Let’s face it—bias still exists in hiring processes. Employers may unconsciously overlook applicants with career gaps, assuming they’re out of touch. Returnship programs remove that barrier by:
- Creating intentional hiring pipelines for returning moms
- Educating hiring managers to focus on skills and potential, not gaps
- Offering trial periods that lead to full-time roles, making it easier to prove value
In this sense, returnships act as both a training ground and a trust-building platform—for both employers and employees.
Networking Opportunities
Another challenge returning moms face is a disconnected professional network. While raising a family, women may step back from LinkedIn, conferences, or social events, unintentionally narrowing their professional circle.
Returnship programs help rebuild this network by:
- Introducing participants to current industry professionals
- Organizing workshops and meetups
- Connecting them with other returnees, forming a community of support
These relationships often lead to new opportunities, mentorships, and friendships that last far beyond the duration of the returnship itself.
Why Returnships Are Built for Moms
Many returnship programs were created with mothers in mind. They offer:
- Flexible work schedules
- Remote or hybrid options
- Understanding managers
- Resources for work-life balance
This supportive design makes it easier for moms to integrate work with their existing responsibilities at home—without burning out or compromising their family values.
What to Expect from a Returnship Program
If you’re a mom considering a return to the workforce, understanding what lies ahead in a returnship program can help ease uncertainty and set clear expectations. These programs are intentionally designed to offer a mix of learning, hands-on experience, and professional development. In this section, we’ll walk through the typical structure, experience, and outcomes of Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work.
Program Structure: A Blend of Learning and Doing
Most returnship programs follow a structured format over 8 to 24 weeks. The goal is to help participants reintegrate into a professional environment while simultaneously updating their skills and knowledge.
Here’s a general outline of what you can expect:
Week 1–2: Orientation & Onboarding
- Introduction to company culture, values, and team structures
- Overview of the returnship goals and expectations
- Setup of tools, accounts, and schedules
- Soft skill workshops (e.g., workplace communication, time management)
Week 3–6: Skill Refresh & Training
- Technical or industry-specific training sessions
- Access to learning portals (Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, etc.)
- Shadowing team members to observe workflows and tools
- Mentorship pairings begin
Week 7–12+: Project Work & Mentorship
- Assigned to real-time projects with clear deliverables
- Weekly check-ins with a manager or mentor
- Opportunities to lead small initiatives or contribute ideas
- Feedback and performance evaluation discussions
Final Weeks: Review & Transition
- Review of project outcomes and overall performance
- One-on-one feedback sessions with team leaders
- Discussions about potential full-time employment or further steps
Returnships are not just passive learning experiences—they are immersive professional re-entry pathways.
Mentorship: Your Anchor During the Journey
One of the most powerful aspects of returnship programs is the mentorship component. Participants are often paired with a senior team member who serves as a guide, confidant, and supporter throughout the process.
Your mentor can help with:
- Navigating company dynamics
- Understanding evolving industry trends
- Rebuilding self-confidence in the workplace
- Offering real-time feedback to accelerate your growth
A good mentor helps transform your transition from uncertain to empowered.
Training Opportunities: Bridging the Skill Gap
Companies understand that the industry may have changed during your career break. That’s why most returnship programs include comprehensive training sessions. These may cover:
- Industry tools (e.g., Salesforce, Adobe Suite, HubSpot)
- Communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom, Teams)
- Technical skills (e.g., coding, data analysis, cloud computing)
- Soft skills (e.g., leadership, emotional intelligence, public speaking)
In many cases, you’ll have access to premium learning platforms as part of the program—an excellent way to accelerate your career development at no personal cost.
Real Projects: Showing What You Can Do
Returnships aren’t classroom-based simulations. They involve real work that has actual impact. Moms in returnship programs might:
- Help launch a marketing campaign
- Redesign a website or product interface
- Analyze customer data and deliver insights
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver a new feature
This real-world experience not only re-establishes your resume credentials but also helps restore your professional identity.
Evaluation & Future Opportunities
Throughout the program, participants receive structured feedback and assessments. These evaluations are meant to:
- Track your progress
- Identify areas of strength and improvement
- Determine potential for full-time employment
In fact, many companies offer full-time job offers at the end of the program based on performance, attitude, and team fit. Even if an offer isn’t extended, you leave the program with:
- Updated skills
- New references
- Real experience
- Renewed confidence
- A stronger resume
All of which position you for success in future job applications.
Supportive Environment: Designed for Moms
Unlike traditional internships or contract roles, returnships are sensitive to the needs of mothers. You can expect:
- Flexible working hours
- Remote/hybrid options
- Empathetic teams who understand your journey
- Onboarding tailored to non-traditional candidates
This support makes it easier to juggle parenting responsibilities while making a strong return to professional life.
How to Prepare for a Returnship Program
Getting accepted into a returnship is a great first step—but preparing properly can greatly increase your chances of success. As a mom re-entering the workforce, preparation goes beyond brushing up your resume. It’s about mentally, emotionally, and professionally gearing up for a new chapter. In this section, we’ll cover the most effective ways to prepare for Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work so that you start strong and stay ahead.
1. Refresh Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Many moms worry about the career gap on their resume—but a well-structured, honest, and confident resume can work in your favor.
Tips for updating your resume:
- Include a “Career Break” section and explain your time away (e.g., “Primary caregiver during career break, actively engaged in community and skills development”).
- Highlight any freelance, volunteer, or part-time work done during your time off.
- Use active language and measurable results from your previous roles.
- Tailor your resume for the returnship role you’re applying for—don’t be generic.
Update LinkedIn:
- Add a professional photo and update your headline with something current like “Experienced Marketing Manager | Ready to Re-Enter the Workforce.”
- Share relevant posts, articles, or certifications to show active engagement in your field.
2. Begin Upskilling Before You Apply
Returnship programs include training, but starting early gives you a competitive edge and boosts confidence.
Recommended platforms:
Skills to consider refreshing:
- Industry-specific tools (e.g., Excel, Salesforce, WordPress)
- Communication tools (e.g., Zoom, Slack)
- Project management (e.g., Trello, Asana, Notion)
- Technical knowledge (if you’re in IT, marketing, or finance)
Even dedicating 30 minutes a day for 2 weeks can help bring you up to speed and demonstrate initiative during interviews.
3. Practice Interviewing with Confidence
Interviews can feel intimidating after a career gap—but preparation and positivity go a long way.
How to prepare:
- Practice talking about your career break with confidence. Avoid apologizing. Instead, say things like:
“I took a break to raise my children and now I’m excited to bring my skills and renewed energy back to the workforce.”
- Review behavioral interview questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you handled a challenging situation”) and prepare STAR-format answers (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
- Practice with a friend or coach, or record yourself answering questions to observe your tone and body language.
- Be ready to explain why you’re interested in a returnship and what you hope to gain from the experience.
4. Rebuild and Expand Your Network
If you’ve been away from the workforce for several years, your professional network may feel outdated—but it’s never too late to rebuild it.
Start with:
- Reconnecting with former colleagues via email or LinkedIn.
- Attending webinars, local business events, or industry meetups.
- Joining online communities like:
These platforms are specifically created to support women, especially moms, returning to work. You’ll find job leads, events, training, and inspiration.
5. Set Realistic Goals and Prepare Your Family
Returning to work is a big change—not just for you, but for your household. Set expectations early.
Tips:
- Communicate with your partner or support system about scheduling, transportation, and childcare.
- Create a weekly family calendar that includes your work hours and self-care time.
- Don’t expect to do everything perfectly from Day 1—this is a transition, not a race.
- Set personal goals for the returnship like:
Rebuilding confidence
Learning a new tool
Getting constructive feedback
Networking with 5 new people
By managing your expectations, you’ll feel less pressure and more pride in your progress.
6. Prepare Your Mindset
Perhaps the most important prep work happens internally. If you’re returning to work after several years, your inner critic may try to hold you back. It’s time to rewrite that voice.
Affirmations to keep in mind:
- “My experience is valuable, even if I’ve been away.”
- “It’s never too late to start again.”
- “I am allowed to learn and grow without being perfect.”
- “My journey matters.”
Your mindset can shape your success far more than your resume. Be kind to yourself and stay focused on progress, not perfection.
Top Companies Offering Returnship Programs for Moms
As the value of career re-entry programs becomes more recognized, many top companies are stepping up to provide structured opportunities for women looking to re-enter the workforce. These Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work are designed with real empathy, flexibility, and a deep understanding of what mothers need to succeed in a modern, fast-paced job market.
Here are some of the best returnship programs from companies that are leading the way in supporting moms:
1. Goldman Sachs Returnship® Program
Goldman Sachs was one of the pioneers of returnship programs, launching its first one in 2008. Their Returnship® Program is a paid, 10-week initiative designed for professionals who have taken at least two years off from the workforce.
Why it stands out:
- Focused on leadership, finance, and business strategy
- Participants work on real-world projects within their department
- Offers mentorship and formal performance feedback
- High rate of full-time job conversion post-program
This program has served as a model for other companies and is especially attractive to moms with a background in finance or business operations.
2. Amazon Returnship Program
Amazon’s returnship initiative is ideal for professionals with at least a one-year career gap, especially in the tech and business development fields. The program runs for 16 weeks and includes full-time pay, benefits, and a possibility of permanent placement.
Key features:
- Remote and hybrid roles are often available
- Includes mentorship and access to career development resources
- Encourages moms in engineering, product management, and operations
- Highly flexible schedule options
Amazon’s supportive environment and large team structure allow moms to find roles that suit both their expertise and availability.
3. IBM Tech Re-Entry Program
IBM’s Tech Re-Entry initiative is a strong choice for moms in technology. It’s specifically crafted for professionals who have been away from the workforce for at least 12 months and are looking to rejoin the tech industry.
Highlights:
- Structured training on cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, and more
- Paid program with a pathway to full-time employment
- Peer support and coaching throughout the program
- Opportunities worldwide, including remote options
IBM recognizes that moms bring resilience, adaptability, and unique perspectives that are vital in tech roles.
4. Deloitte Encore Program
Deloitte’s Encore Program is tailored for experienced professionals in fields such as consulting, finance, and accounting. It typically lasts around 12 to 16 weeks and includes a mix of training, mentorship, and project-based work.
What moms love about it:
- Supportive work environment for parents
- Focus on building business acumen after a break
- High conversion rate to full-time positions
- Clear, structured onboarding process
This is a great opportunity for moms with analytical, strategic, or managerial experience looking to re-enter a corporate setting.
5. Intuit Returnship Program
Intuit, the maker of TurboTax and QuickBooks, offers a returnship program focused on product development, marketing, and finance. The company seeks individuals who’ve taken time off but still have the passion and skills to succeed in a modern tech ecosystem.
Program perks:
- Remote-friendly options
- Mentorship from senior leaders
- Competitive compensation and benefits during the program
- Emphasis on innovation and user-focused thinking
Moms who are creative thinkers or tech-savvy will find Intuit a rewarding place to reignite their careers.
6. The Mom Project
The Mom Project isn’t a returnship itself but a job marketplace and community designed exclusively for moms. It partners with companies to create flexible work environments and returnship-style roles tailored for mothers.
Why it’s valuable:
- Curates jobs and returnships with family-first employers
- Offers networking events, resources, and coaching
- Focuses on industries ranging from marketing to IT to HR
- Advocates for moms to thrive in both work and family life
Many moms begin their return-to-work journey with The Mom Project’s free tools and job listings before applying to more formal returnship programs.
7. PepsiCo’s “Ready to Return” Program
PepsiCo offers a 10-week paid returnship for individuals with a career gap of two or more years, especially targeting moms with experience in marketing, sales, HR, finance, and R&D.
Benefits:
- Training sessions and career coaching
- Real project contributions
- Networking events with leadership teams
- Family-supportive work culture
This program is perfect for moms with experience in consumer products or brand management.
Additional Companies Offering Returnships:
- LinkedIn (Reach Program)
- Wells Fargo (Return to Work Program)
- Meta (Return to Work Initiative)
- VMware (VMinclusion Taara – India-specific)
- Accenture (Return to Work Program)
What to Look for When Choosing a Returnship
When evaluating returnship programs, ask yourself:
- Does this company align with my values and lifestyle?
- Is the program designed to offer mentorship and growth?
- Are there success stories from other moms?
- Will the company be supportive of work-life balance?
Choosing the right returnship can be life-changing—not just for your career but for your confidence and overall well-being.
Tips for Making the Most of Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work
Being accepted into a returnship is a huge milestone—but how you approach the experience can determine your long-term success. These programs are designed to give you the opportunity to rebuild your professional identity and transition back into full-time employment. In this final section, we’ll cover actionable tips to help you maximize the benefits of Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work and thrive both during and after the program.
1. Embrace a Learner’s Mindset
Even if you were once a top performer in your previous role, re-entering the workforce after a break requires humility and openness. The landscape may have changed—new tools, new workflows, or even a new workplace culture.
What to do:
- Be open to learning, no matter your past experience.
- Ask questions when something is unclear—curiosity shows engagement.
- Accept that you may not know everything and that’s perfectly okay.
A returnship is not about proving perfection; it’s about showing your willingness to grow.
2. Set Clear Personal and Professional Goals
Walking into your returnship with a clear purpose will help you stay focused and measure progress. Your goals might include:
- Mastering a specific software or tool
- Rebuilding your professional confidence
- Creating a new project portfolio
- Expanding your network by 5–10 contacts
- Securing a full-time role or extending your contract
Write your goals down and revisit them weekly to stay on track and motivated.
3. Build Strong Relationships
One of the most valuable aspects of any returnship is the opportunity to connect with others. Don’t limit yourself to just your mentor or direct team—network across departments.
How to build relationships:
- Schedule virtual or in-person coffee chats with colleagues
- Attend internal networking events or workshops
- Show appreciation for feedback and collaboration
- Stay active on professional platforms like LinkedIn
These relationships may lead to future opportunities, collaborations, or even job referrals.
4. Track Your Progress and Achievements
As a returning mom, it’s easy to overlook your wins in the middle of busy days. Start a simple document to record:
- Projects you worked on
- Skills you practiced or learned
- Positive feedback from supervisors or peers
- Problems you helped solve
This not only boosts your confidence but also prepares you for performance reviews or job interviews.
5. Be Vocal About Your Aspirations
Let your mentor or manager know that you’re interested in growing with the company beyond the returnship. Expressing your interest early signals initiative and helps your team identify potential full-time roles where you’d be a good fit.
Tip: Ask for feedback frequently. Show that you’re invested in improving, and that you’re committed to staying.
6. Balance Patience and Persistence
The transition back to work isn’t always smooth. There may be moments of doubt, exhaustion, or even feeling “out of place.” That’s normal—and temporary.
How to manage this:
- Take breaks when needed
- Practice self-care outside work
- Talk to other returnship participants or moms who’ve been through it
- Celebrate small wins—every step forward is progress
Progress, not perfection, should be your mantra during this time.
7. Leverage Post-Program Opportunities
Many companies use returnships as a talent pipeline for full-time roles. Toward the end of your program, you’ll typically have:
- A performance review
- Exit interviews or evaluations
- A discussion about next steps
Even if you’re not offered a position immediately, request a letter of recommendation and stay connected with the team. Continue networking, applying for roles, and leveraging the new skills and experience you’ve gained.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Return a Triumph
Your return to the workforce is not just a job move—it’s a statement of resilience, growth, and purpose. The best part? You’re not starting from scratch. You’re starting from experience.
Returnship Programs for Moms Returning to Work aren’t just about plugging back into a job—they’re about reclaiming your space in the professional world, bringing both your past achievements and your life experience into every role you pursue.
You’ve managed households, juggled responsibilities, navigated challenges, and raised the next generation. That experience is priceless. The returnship is simply the bridge between where you paused and where you’re meant to rise.
So walk into your returnship with pride. Learn passionately, connect authentically, and shine brightly. Because your next chapter isn’t just about returning—it’s about rewriting your success story.