Women returning to work after redundancy, career breaks, or industry shifts face multiple systemic barriers: age bias, digital recruitment challenges, and rising living costs. Smart Works supports women to navigate these obstacles, equipping them with confidence, clarity, and practical tools. Karuna’s journey illustrates both the challenges women face and the transformative impact of tailored support.  

Karuna, 45, is a North London resident who, after nearly a decade in HR, faced redundancy and the challenge of re-entering the workforce in her mid-40s. With limited experience in her new sector and a rapidly evolving digital job market, she found herself navigating unemployment, financial strain, and the emotional toll of repeated rejection.  

“I started in hospitality in 2003 and worked my way up from the bottom to management. Later, I transitioned into HR because I was exposed to recruitment, employee relations, and disciplinary processes in my previous role. I thought I could make HR my career, but I had to start from scratch, and it wasn’t as easy as I expected.”  

After nearly two years in HR, Karuna was made redundant in October 2023. “It came out of nowhere. The company needed to cut costs, and even though I had more experience than my colleague who stayed, I was let go. It was a shock. I didn’t know what support was available or how to manage my finances.”  

The impact of redundancy was immediate. “I had to rely on Universal Credit, and I was really late to understand how it worked. Living in London, paying rent, and managing day-to-day expenses was incredibly stressful. I had to completely rethink how I budgeted for food and essentials. Every choice mattered.”  

Her job search was long and frustrating.

“I applied for hundreds of jobs over 11 months. I felt like I wasn’t adding value, like I wasn’t seen. I’d go to interviews and get rejected. It was mentally exhausting, almost hitting depression at times. Even applying for lower-paid or entry-level roles was difficult; I wasn’t even considered.”  

The recruitment landscape had changed significantly since her last period of unemployment. “It’s completely digital now. Employers screen CVs through software, looking for keywords. You can have the experience, but if your CV isn’t phrased the right way, you won’t get an interview. I had to relearn how to write my CV, tailor it to each role, and practise my interview technique. It felt like starting again from scratch.”  

Discovering Smart Works

Karuna discovered Smart Works through a local job fair, recommended by a friend. “I already had an interview lined up, but I wanted help preparing. From the moment I walked in, everyone was welcoming and supportive. They asked about my experience and the job I was applying for, and we went through questions in detail. It was a mock interview, and they showed me how to structure my answers properly.”  

She found the guidance transformative. “Before Smart Works, I knew I had the experience, but I couldn’t convey it correctly. They taught me how to answer questions clearly, how to show my skills, and how to structure responses using the STAR method. That practice and feedback gave me the confidence I needed.”  

The preparation extended beyond technique. “It wasn’t just about practising answers. Having someone tell me, ‘You have the experience, you just need to present it this way,’ made a huge difference. I felt mentally ready and more confident going into my interview.”  

When Karuna received the job offer, it was a relief and validation of her efforts.

“I was overjoyed. After so many rejections, it felt like a breakthrough. That first paycheque wasn’t just money, it was a symbol that I could support myself, manage my life, and that my experience mattered.”  

Reflecting on the broader support Smart Works provides, Karuna emphasises the holistic value: “It’s not just clothes and coaching; it’s guidance and belief. They help you see your skills clearly, show you how to communicate them, and give you confidence to re-enter the workforce. Walking into that interview, I felt prepared and capable, which makes all the difference.”  

Systemic barriers

She also highlights systemic barriers women face when returning to work. “Cost of living, career breaks, and industry biases can make returning to work harder. Smart Works equips women to navigate these challenges, helping them articulate their value and confidence. Employers need to recognise that investing in employees, through training, fair pay, and flexibility - pays off in loyalty and contribution.”  

Looking back, Karuna sees both struggle and triumph. “Being unemployed was isolating and stressful. I didn’t know how to navigate the job market anymore. But through Smart Works, I gained tools, guidance, and confidence. It was empowering. I didn’t just get a job, I learned how to present myself, understand my worth, and rebuild my career path.”  

Karuna’s story highlights resilience, determination, and the transformative impact of tailored support. Women navigating mid-career transitions face structural challenges that extend beyond individual skill gaps. With guidance, confidence-building, and practical support, these barriers can be overcome, but systemic change is also essential. Smart Works demonstrates how investing in people not only changes individual lives but also strengthens workplaces and communities.