It is indeed a challenge for moms to
re-enter the job market, especially with all of the time that has been spent
outside of the workforce raising their children. With such an absence from
employment, a mom will need time, planning skills and focus in order to
re-enter the working community. Returning to work can be a battle regardless of
the situation and regardless of how strong the job market may be. As it is with
any endeavor, you cannot simply start your day by saying you're going to get a
new job; you need a plan instead.
Here is my advice
for moms. You have acquired some skills along the way so put them to use.
Moms are many things already. They are skilled volunteers, counselors and
protectors. Moms are the center of the household, meaning they have skills in
managing the budget of the home, community volunteer work and serving the
school system by participating such things as PTA. Before you jump back into
the job market, you need to be serious, organized and have a set of realistic
expectations.
With a good understanding of your core set
of skills, it's time to move on and figure out the tools you have and the
expertise you can offer to bring to your potential future employer. A primary
skill requirement in todays job market is a good understanding of word
processing and spreadsheet developing software. Have you used any of these
programs lately? Knowing how to use the internet and how to email won't cut it.
If you need to refresh your memory with regard to basic computer software, try
taking a community college course or checking out a reference book from the
library.
Once you have the basics figured out,
consider your contacts or connections and see if you can find a few that can
help you find a job. Take a look at professional social networking sites that
provide tools to help you connect with other professionals who work in the line
of work you are interested in. With a profile on such a site you'll become more
visible, making it easier for people to find and contact you. Oftentimes you'll
even find an open job position advertised on these sites.
Be at peace with the gap in your resume.
Attitudes toward resume gaps differ between moms and employers: moms worry and
employers do not. You don't need to be ashamed that you have a resume gap
because you're a mom. Just simply indicate on your resume that you are a mom
returning to work. Don't stress over that gap in your resume.
Remember, there is temp work available too.
A temp job will provide you with some time to really hone in on your skills and
get used to working with them again. It will also provide you with a chance to
network, or it might lead to full-time employment. You can find some more
advice ideas when you read some of the online Q&A
for moms.
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