Is recent experience really a must-have?

The reality of the current market is that there are more well qualified and experienced candidates available than there are roles. So I think the feedback you have received, whilst harsh, is probably true for 80%+ of recruiters who can have their cake (experience) and eat it (qualifications too) and as extra sugar on top demand relevant recent experience in similar industry sectors if they so wish.

Some recruiters will look wider and a lot will depend on the interim work you have been doing and how closely aligned your charity work is.

Sadly its probably a case of recognising that it will be an uphill challenge and redoubling your efforts with a very well crafted narrative. I suspect you will have more opportunity with direct opportunities rather than through Executive Search or Agencies.

Good luck

Hi Liz

I was made redundant from a stand alone HR Manager position a few years ago, and got similar responses after a few months out of work - I had done some HR consultancy work which helped, but as Keith says there are many candidates for each role and many do put recent experience high on the wish list.

After 6 months I applied and was successful for a temporary Senior HRBP position (6 months maternity cover) - they needed to get someone in quickly, and I was not only available but had the experience, and was also the right fit for their business (I was by no means the only candidate). I had originally shied away from temporary work after the uncertainty of redundancy but in the end felt it was the best way to get back into the market. In my case it worked out as I ended up being there for 6 years....maybe something to consider?

I would possibly disagree with Andre about stepping down to try and get back in. It isn't always easy to convince people you are serious about the position rather than just 'wanting to get a foot in the door' and would a more junior role work for you now in terms of being an interesting position?  Maybe it depends on the company and the role. 

Whichever way you go, best of luck!

It cuts both ways.

Being currently "between roles" means you don't tick the "recent experience" box. But it means that you *do* tick the "immediately available" box, which most people currently employed, with contractual notice periods and a reluctance to burn bridges, will not.

So prioritize roles seeking an immediate start and you will do better.

These will predominantly be temp or FTC roles, but these are a great springboard back to a permanent role if that's what you want.

Thank you for the responses - confirmed my thinking and helped me set expectations.

I think my action point is to extend and refresh my HR professional network which, I have a feeling, will be key to transitioning back into work along with direct applications where I can really position my situation (rather than rely on a recruitment agency).

Lot of companies have now started doing returner programmes which can help you get a role at the same level. These can sometimes be limited to mothers but not always.

Thanks Yamini. I am actively looking into returnships however there are limited opportunities for HR professionals. Programmes are mostly geared up to skills such as IT, law and accountancy.