Here is a quick reference guide designed to assist you to keep your career goals and aspirations in focus.

• Consider the perception that you create to your manager, colleagues and customers.
• Consider how you work - Look at the key areas of your work such as the handling of work interruptions, time management, planning and organising, reporting and communication. If possible use technology to assist you.
• Be aware of the attitude and behaviour you display on the job.
• Continue to take personal responsibility for your role and position in the organisation.
• Look for opportunities to gain control of your work - solve problems with solutions.
• Look for opportunities to develop your interests and career pursuits that will assist in long - term career progression and fulfilment.
• Keep in touch with changes and developments in your job/department. This will be particularly important if you are on Parental or other extended leave and can be achieved through the following:
• Before you commence leave speak to your manager and discuss how and when you would like to be kept informed of changes and developments.
• Consider meeting or speaking with your manager or a colleague on a regular basis e.g. once a month.
• If possible, ask you manager to invite you to participate in internal development courses, workshops, seminars etc.
• If possible attend team meetings.
• Read emails, newsletters or internal memos- you might like to consider receiving and reading information at home.
• Ask your manager to give you a re-orientation briefing on the latest developments that have occurred in the department or job as soon as you provide notice of return from leave.
• You might like to consider keep up professional networks or news by receiving trade journals, magazines, newsletters etc.
• Where possible, manage illness/accidents and emergencies by putting together an illness action plan [pdf].
• Continue to review and assess your work demands and goals with your manager and partner.
• Continue to build positive relationships with your manager and colleagues.
• Support your colleagues and the company that respects work/family & life issues.
• Be a mentor to colleagues who wish to work flexibly.