Returning to the workforce – Paddles Matter!
-By Nicole Jankovic
You could feel the thud, maybe a bump? It was something I hadn’t felt in a while. Oh rejoice! A salary landing in my bank account after a rather lengthy hiatus from the workforce (thank you motherhood and unexpected redundancy).
Re-entering the workplace has many considerations; some very positive and some more challenging. If you’re in the same boat, grab a paddle because we are about to look at some tactics for getting back up this creek without financial woe!
P = Payslips matter
Seriously. Look at your new payslip and ensure you’re receiving all your entitlements, that the amount correlates to what was agreed and that superannuation contributions amount to 10% of your salary. Yes folks, 10% is the current default for many! Things change and how much your employer contributes to your superannuation has recently increased.
A = Act now
Depending on your situation, time off from work may have resulted in the use of debt to pay for living costs. If this is you – act immediately. Grit your teeth and delay your return-to-work parties until your credit cards or short-term loans are paid off.
D = Don’t need it?
If you found that your life didn’t have to change dramatically while you were not working, perhaps you don’t need all your newfound income anyway. Why not consider diverting some of your new salary toward paying off your home, investing in your super, or starting a savings plan? You’ll thank me later for this one.
D = Don’t neglect to protect yourself.
Be aware that once you have superannuation, you are likely to also have some personal insurance. The best-case scenario is that your life, disability, and income protection insurance become a waste of money – it means you’ve never needed it. Rest assured though, as a financial planner I have seen too many lives devastatingly impacted by people having to retire early due to poor health. Learn what you have and if you can’t work it out, get in touch with your super fund and have them explain it to you.
L = Learn to love it
The ability to socialise with other (hopefully) interesting adults in the workplace is a huge advantage. We have learned through the isolation of recent lockdowns that even “Karen at the water-cooler” has her place in our day in allowing us to form relationships, share our opinions and knowledge and most of all; feel part of a larger community. Feeling valued and contributing to a larger goal has been shown to be significant to an individual’s mental health and one which can be challenging to fill when you are not employed.
E = Eventually it will be okay.
The imposter syndrome that deafens you daily as you take those first few weeks back will slowly fade. You can regain your financial position through careful planning. You are worthy and have much to contribute so keep on paddling!!
If you are not sure where or how to start, seek the assistance of a professional and learn how to get back on track.
For more practical tools and resources please refer to our dedicated financial wellbeing resources at www.financialwellnessmatters.com.au or contact us to learn about our workplace wellbeing programs.