Going back to work after a maternity leave can be challenging enough, but many women choose to take an extended parental leave. This usually means finding another job and going through the whole interview process, in addition to having to navigate new responsibilities and balancing them with working outside the home. Cathy Leonard discusses her experience of going back into the paid work force after a 4.5 year extended parental leave, and some issues that will be relevant for many in a similar situation, including tips about how to build up your confidence as you look for interviews and start a new position.