Totaljobs.com > Career Advice > Career Doctor > Am I crazy to take a gap year in my 30's?

Am I crazy to take a gap year in my 30's?

Our Career Doctor, Sophie Relf, receives hundreds of emails every day about work and jobseeking issues. Here she helps a thirty-something who fancies taking a career break to see the world.

Dear Career Doctor,

I am a thirty-something graduate working as an account executive for a PR company. My problem is I'm getting itchy feet, and wish to chuck in my job to go travelling for a year with a couple of friends. Is this career suicide?

Will I be able to get back on the career path when I return from my travels in a year's time?

Please help!
P.

Dear P,

Gap years have grown up and many enlightened employers are beginning to acknowledge that it's fine for people to have career breaks without damaging their employability.

The gap year used to be the preserve of students, but people of varying ages are now taking time out from their nine-to-five routines to pursue other interests. It's a healthy thing to do and, depending on the field of work, can be useful for people whose work involves relationships, decision making, responsibility and creative thinking.

Some companies offer career break options, so it may be worth checking if your employer offers a sabbatical scheme. These schemes do not necessarily guarantee to keep specific jobs open, but give a commitment to try and help find similar suitable employment within the organisation upon your return.

If you're on the job hunt when you get back, be sure to speak the language employers want to hear when describing the break. Be up front about your time away, showing how much you have gained from the experience and explaining that you've come back refreshed and motivated. Try to provide evidence of times when you had to show initiative, use negotiating or bargaining skills, or gained confidence in dealing with new people.

Click here for more advice from travel experts Rough Guides about taking a year off.

Good luck!
Sophie

If you have a question for Sophie, please email career.doctor@totaljobs.com.

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