Hi,after returning from a sabbatical (more below), I'm finding it hard re-entering the job market, and would appreciate some external views / advice.Have been out of work nearly two years now - first year was a planned sabbatical travelling. On return, I needed to spend time acting as a carer for family member for 7-8 months. Now in a position to take up a job proper.My experience prior to this was four years MC in a telecoms consultancy (UK/EU). Solid work incl. project management, research, analysis, procurement and benchmarking. Solid delivery, often bringing in real savings in the millions. Liked by clients. Also a published author and spoke at national/international conferences. Prior to this, eight years in digital TV, internet and IT. I've a 2.2 in Engineering from Bristol. For the last few months I've been knocking on doors for a variety of MC and non-MC positions. One job offer (refused because of poor culture), and final interview with Deloitte UK were the best results.I (think I) have experience, solid results, good soft skills and a 'world view'. I'm finding the recruiting agencies to be a disheartening experience.What can I do to improve things?

You could try presenting it all a bit better. My first impression was that you have no focus.Sabbiticals, extended breaks off work, wannabe writer, telecoms manager, digital TV, engineering degree, etc.... doesn't really fit with my idea of a 'conventional MC background'.But, stick to your guns... refusing a job offer because of poor culture takes guts but is usually the right thing to do. You'll get there eventually - just maybe think more about how you're presenting it all?

Is there a reason that you have not knocked on the door from which you left or tickled the earbuds of those who invited you to speak at conferences etc?This industry more than any runs on networks once you've made it past the hounds and over the fence into the beautiful world of consulting.Have you contacted any ex-clients and enquired as to whether they have any freelance work you could take on for them?Time to get the little black book out and be a little brazen!

Thanks for the suggestions. I understand the first point about focus - I'll be the first to say it took me a few years to find a role/career that suited me. At the same time everything I did prior to the MC gave me insights and experience that pure MBA types didn't always have. And the authoring was on-topic - interactive telecoms services, not mills and boon :) But I take your point, and will review what/how the CV's presented.Will also get out the black book and start calling.Thanks again for input and ideas.