How do you return to work after a long sabbatical?

Question

I've been on an extended sabbatical for about 18 months and need to return to work. I feel like I've practically forgotten how even to program, and there is no way I could pass a technical interview right now. Not to mention, I'm a bit behind on things like new frameworks and tech.Am I unhirable now? How do I explain a significant gap in my work history? I worry employers will view me as flakey or something for taking so much time off work.I also worry that maybe I've fallen too behind and have badly hurt my career.Any advice? Have others successfully returned to work after such a long break?

linuxftw · Accepted Answer

Not really enough details. How long is your work history? If you have 18 months experience followed by an 18 month absence, that's going to be a tough one. If you have like 5+ years experience, you can always just say you tried consulting, did a lot of RFPs, prototypes, pitching, but never landed anything serious so you're returning to the corporate world. "I like the programming side, not the rest of running a business" is what I would say.In any case, if you're competent and your skills are still in demand, you shouldn't have any problem finding work.