What’s Next After Running a Business? How to Redefine Your Career Path

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we sit down with career and leadership coach Kate Rainford-Foakes, who specialises in helping women navigate career transitions, especially those moving from entrepreneurship back into employment or exploring new directions.

Whether you’ve stepped away from a business, are craving more stability, or simply wondering “what’s next?”, Kate shares practical, encouraging advice for rediscovering your professional identity, reframing your story, and confidently taking your next career step.

💬 We Cover:

• How to rebuild your professional identity after running your own business
• Understanding your strengths, values, and what lights you up
• Crafting a narrative that connects your founder experience to your next chapter
• Refreshing your LinkedIn and CV to reflect where you’re going — not just where you’ve been
• The power of your network — and how to reconnect authentically
• Navigating salary expectations after self-employment
• Exploring fractional, portfolio, and hybrid career options
• Why clarity and confidence come from doing the foundational work first

💡 Key Takeaways:

• You’re not starting from scratch: Running a business builds invaluable leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Narrative is everything: The story you tell shapes how others see your value — and how you see yourself.
• Your network is gold: Most new opportunities come through people, not job boards.
• Flexibility is possible: Careers today can blend employment, consulting, and side ventures.
• Take time to reset: Building a clear vision first saves wasted energy later.

🎧 Why You Should Listen:

If you’re a former founder, freelancer, or self-employed professional wondering what’s next, this episode offers both clarity and confidence. Kate shares real, actionable strategies to help you translate your entrepreneurial experience into your next big career move, without losing the freedom and purpose that inspired you to start your business in the first place.

Show Links:

Connect With Our Host, Elizabeth Willetts Here

Connect With Kate on LinkedIn Here

Visit Kate’s Website Here

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