What is a returnship?
A returnship is a structured route back to work after a career break. Many are run by employers for a fixed period, with training and support, and some lead to a full-time role. Others are simply regular jobs from employers who welcome returners.
The name can mean different things at different companies, so read the details before you apply.
Returnship programs in India to look at
These employers and organisations have run programs for women returning to work in India. Programs open and close, and terms change, so always check the official page for the latest eligibility, length and pay.
| Employer | Program | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| TCS | Rebegin(opens in a new tab) | For experienced women professionals across India returning after a break for family or other commitments. |
| Amazon | rekindle(opens in a new tab) | A return-to-work program for women after a career break. Roles have been listed in cities such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad. |
| Salesforce | Return to Work (India)(opens in a new tab) | A six-month returnship with potential to move into a full-time role. |
| HCLTech | Returnship(opens in a new tab) | A program for women re-entering the workforce, with a focus on technology. |
| Persistent Systems | Women's Returnship Program(opens in a new tab) | A contract-to-hire route with on-the-job training in a business unit. |
| WNS | Women Returnship(opens in a new tab) | Learning, mentoring and leadership connections for women rejoining after a break. |
| Women Back to Work | Current returnships(opens in a new tab) | Partners with employers on returnships, including one with Infoblox India that hires only in India. |
How to choose a program
Ask these questions of every program:
- How long is it, and is it fixed-term or contract-to-hire?
- Is it paid, and how is pay decided?
- What happens at the end? Is there a path to a full-time role?
- Where is the job, and is hybrid or flexible work possible?
- Does the work match your experience, or is it a step down?
How to apply
- Update your CV. Put your experience before the break first, then add what you did during it.
- Refresh one or two skills that the role uses today, such as Excel, SQL or a finance system.
- Read each program's eligibility carefully, including any minimum break or experience.
- Apply early. Many programs take a limited intake and close once it is full.
How to talk about your career break
You do not need to apologise for a break. Keep it short, honest and forward-looking:
- Say what it was in one sentence, for example family care, health or study.
- Say what you kept up, such as courses, volunteering or freelance work.
- Say what you want next, and why this role fits your experience.
You do not need a program to return
Programs are one route. Regular full-time, hybrid and flexible roles are another, and many employers hire returners into them. Apply to both. You can view open roles, join our talent pool (free for candidates), or read how our women returnship support works. For more advice, see our post on tips for re-entering the workforce.
Returner checklist
Frequently asked questions
What is a returnship?
A returnship is a structured route back to work for people who have had a career break. Employer programs usually run for a fixed period and may lead to a full-time role.
Do returnships lead to a full-time job?
Some do. Programs describe this differently, so check each one before you apply.
How long a career break can I have?
Eligibility varies by program. Some ask for a minimum break, so check the official page for each one.
Does Stellaspire charge candidates?
No. Stellaspire never charges candidates. Employers pay for our services.
Returning to work after a break? Register your profile and we will talk through roles that fit. It is free for candidates.
Register as a returner (opens in a new tab)Related reading