Stay-at-Home Mom Returning to Work? How to Land a GREAT Job

It’s Challenging Being a Stay at Home Mom Returning to Work

Are you a stay at home mom returning to work?

I know exactly how you feel. Just a few months ago, I was standing where you are now!

I felt nervous about making such an enormous transition and worried about how my family would adjust.

I had also lost all of the confidence that came from my previous roles and successes. In my mind, my only remaining skillset included wiping butts and picking up toys.

Would potential employers still view me as qualified and relevant? I wasn’t sure.

It was a long road as I learned what worked and what didn’t, and how best to market the skills I knew I had.

But in the end, I moved into a nearly equal position to the one I left to become a stay-at-home mom, not one step backward on my career path. And I found a full-time position whose schedule still afforded me a solid seven hours with my daughter every workday.

What’s the secret sauce for a stay at home mom returning to work? Here’s what worked for me.

Market What You Already Do

Consider how to market all of the extras you do.

Do you volunteer at your child’s school? At your church?

Are you, or were you at one time, active in an MLM like Doterra, Beachbody, or Mary Kay? Do you utilize any skills within a hobby that could be applied to a job?

Checking children into the nursery at church every Sunday might not feel like a very big deal. But when you consider you’re managing a check-in station, greeting new visitors, entering their information into a database, and working cohesively with church staff, it feels and sounds like the significant contribution that it is.

If you haven’t been involved in much outside of your home, start now.

Consider what field you’re trying to enter and take on any small, applicable volunteer opportunities you can find.

For example, if you’d like to become an administrative assistant, volunteer to take phone calls for an hour or two a week at your child’s preschool. If you’re looking for a writing/editing job, volunteer to write and/or edit your church’s bulletin, weekly announcement slides, or email communications.

It’s always helpful to be able to point out recent, transferable skills in your field, paid or not.

Consider taking any applicable training program, obtaining (affordable!) certifications, or attending relevant conferences.

These provide just one more way to demonstrate how you’ve remained up-to-date within your field, even while away for a period.

Plus, they provide a fantastic opportunity to connect in-person with others in your field. Those connections might just lead to a personal referral!

Give Yourself Some Credit

Create an elevator pitch.

One of my biggest challenges when I was attempting to return to the workforce was explaining my employment gap without sounding dismissive of the incredibly significant contribution it was.

Saying, “I’ve just been a stay-at-home parent the last ten years”? It makes it sound like you’ve been binging on Netflix and chicken nuggets.

But the truth is, stay-at-home mothers are working their butts off doing one of the most important jobs in the world.

How much more confident does it sound to say, “I’m a former tech manager. I took a break to invest in my children these past few years but am looking to make my return to tech.”

You could also tie in those extras if you have them! “Now that the kids are in school, I have time to get back into marketing. I’ve kept my skills sharp by volunteering to market events at the local library.”

Practice your elevator pitch over and over, until you recite it with ease and confidence the next time someone asks you what you do. The more seriously you take yourself, both on your resume and cover letter and in a job interview, the more seriously others will take you.

Address your time at home on your resume and cover letter.

An unexplained employment gap on your resume creates questions rather than addressing them on your terms.

Be upfront about the circumstances, while providing a professional description of your career gap. Don’t forget to include any side gigs, volunteer work, or training program in which you might have participated during your career gap.

You certainly aren’t required to do anything above and beyond caring for your children. And you don’t have to prove to potential employers you did. After all, it’s not really their business to judge your time away, right?

But marketing any volunteering, hobbies, etc. can help to convince more close-minded interviewers that your career break didn’t diminish your relevance in the corporate world.

Start Looking Early and Make It Known

Start looking early.

My husband and I had agreed I would return to work when our daughter started preschool. So with a looming start date in early September, I began my job hunt in June.

Starting early gives you more time to land a job without the added stress of a quickly approaching, or worse, passed deadline. It also allows you to be a little pickier about the job, pay, or schedule than you might otherwise be able to.

Look for referrals.

I can tell you from experience that it’s incredibly difficult to land a job interview with a long break in your employment history, even if/when you position your gap years perfectly. You’re much more likely to hear back from a company if someone on the inside can vouch for your character.

Don’t be afraid to let family, friends, neighbors, or even local Facebook groups know that you’re in the market for a new job! They might just have the inside scoop or connections you need to get your foot in the door.

Broaden Your Search

Don’t rule anything out!

You might be surprised how much you enjoy a different industry, schedule, or location.

I was convinced that only an at-home job would meet our family’s needs and so only applied to remote work options. But when I finally broadened my search, I found a low-stress job in a traditional office just 15 minutes from my front door, with a 2-11 PM schedule that still allowed me to attend all of my daughter’s preschool events.

I was surprised at how much I actually enjoyed leaving the house and was blown away by the company’s benefits and perks.

Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. You might just be pleasantly surprised.

Consider starting part-time.

Sure, your ultimate goal might be a full-time job, but sometimes it’s easier to land a part-time job first. A hiring manager is often more willing to take a chance on a candidate when there are no insurance premiums or vacation hours at stake.

A part-time job not only allows you the opportunity to prove your worth to an employer (and possibly open the door to further opportunity) but also puts recent and relevant experience on your resume while you continue to seek out a full-time job.

Weigh the Benefits

Make sure your new gig is worth it.

Although you may want to jump at your first opportunity to return to work after being a stay-at-home mom, you’ll want to make sure it’s worth it.

I had a friend who was busting her tail waitressing, only to do the math one day and realize she was only bringing in enough money to cover childcare costs. She was literally working so that someone else could watch her kids…so that she could work.

Make sure that the offer makes sense for your situation and your family’s needs. It should be 100% worth your time, energy, and sacrifice.

Balancing Family and Career

When you’re transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom to a working mom, achieving work-life balance can feel incredibly daunting. Like any significant change in your life, it’s going to require time, patience, and a little trial and error.

Here are some strategies to help you juggle your family responsibilities with your professional goals:

• Prioritize your tasks: Evaluate what needs immediate attention in your home life and your job and focus your efforts there first. This will help you zero in on what’s important, reducing the feeling of overwhelm.
• Establish a support system: Reliable childcare is crucial when you go back to work. Investigate different options, such as family, daycare, or a trusted babysitter, and select what works best for your family.
• Set boundaries: It’s essential to set clear boundaries with your employer. For instance, if family time is important from 6 PM onwards, be sure to communicate that and stick to it. Conversely, you may need to lay down the law with your family that you need to work during work time, especially if you’re working from home.
• Manage guilt: It’s normal to feel guilty as a stay-at-home parent returning to work. Remind yourself that providing for your family and nurturing personal growth are also important and valuable endeavors.

By integrating these approaches, along with some self-compassion, you’ll feel better equipped to integrate a healthy work-life balance of both family and career.

Managing the Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Returning to Work

Building Confidence

When you’re preparing to re-enter the workforce after being a stay-at-home mom, building your confidence is key. You might feel uncertain about your professional skills, but remember that your time managing a household has honed a truckload of transferable skills.

Start with small steps, such as updating your resume to reflect these skills. This can be a tangible reminder of what you’re capable of and help squash any feelings of self-doubt.

• Confidence Builders
  • List your household management achievements.
  • Highlight problem-solving incidents.
  • Note times you coordinated family events.

Combating Guilt

Experiencing guilt is not uncommon as you transition into a new job. It’s both natural and normal for stay-at-home mothers to worry about spending time away from their children.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that nurturing your career is beneficial for you and your family’s future. If guilt surfaces, communicate with your family; their support can help to alleviate those feelings.

• Alleviating Guilt
  • Discuss the career move openly with your family.
  • Create a family calendar to manage time together.
  • Assure regular quality time with your children.

Committing to the Transition

Committing to a career transition requires both time and energy.

Balancing work with family life can feel daunting, but your ability to commit to your family’s needs already demonstrates a powerful capacity for dedication and multi-tasking! Apply the same level of commitment to your new job, and you’ll be sure to start your new working mom life off on the right foot.

• Transition and Commitment
  • Plan your time for job search activities.
  • Set clear, achievable career goals.
  • Seek out networking opportunities with other working parents.

Remember, you’re navigating a significant life change, and it’s okay to seek support from friends, former colleagues, or career coaches. They can provide encouragement and practical advice as you move forward.

Just because you’re a stay at home mom returning to work doesn’t mean for one second you’ll wind up at a dead-end job. By marketing yourself well, broadening your search, and weighing the benefits, you can land a job you not only need, but want. You’ve got this, momma!

P.S. Looking for more of a side hustle? We’ve got you covered there too! Be sure to check out Best Side Jobs For Moms | 112 Profitable, Practical Side Hustles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Returning to work can raise many questions about balancing your professional life with your personal one. The following frequently asked questions are designed to clarify how you can smoothly transition back into the workforce.

Should I address resume gaps in my cover letter?

Yes, it’s often a good idea to address resume gaps in your cover letter. This gives you the opportunity to explain the circumstances in a positive light and proactively address any concerns the employer might have.

Here are a few tips on how to do this effectively:

1. Be Honest and Direct: Briefly mention the gap and provide a straightforward explanation. There’s no need to go into excessive detail, but providing context can help employers understand your situation.
2. Focus on the Positive: Highlight any constructive activities you undertook during the gap, such as volunteering, education, professional development, or freelance work. This shows that you were proactive and continued to develop your skills.
3. Explain Your Current Readiness: Assure the employer of your readiness to re-enter the workforce and your enthusiasm for the job you’re applying for. If the gap helped you grow in any way that’s relevant to the job, make sure to mention it.
4. Keep the Overall Tone Positive: Your cover letter should focus on what you can offer to the employer and how your experiences—both during and prior to the gap—make you a strong candidate.

Remember, the cover letter is your chance to make a good first impression, so while it’s important to address any resume gaps, it’s also crucial to keep the focus on your qualifications and excitement for the position.

What strategies can help in balancing work and family after rejoining the workforce?

Consider jobs that offer flexible working hours or the possibility of remote work to manage family responsibilities effectively. Establishing a solid routine and leveraging childcare options can also be beneficial.

How can I update my resume to reflect my time as a stay-at-home mom?

Highlight any skills and volunteer work you’ve done during that period. It’s important to frame your time as a stay-at-home mom in terms of transferable skills and experiences that are valuable to employers.

Are there any best practices for managing your online presence while looking for a new job?

Yes, managing your online presence is crucial when you’re job hunting. Here are several best practices to consider:

1. Audit Your Online Presence: Review your social media profiles and search your name online to see what comes up. Remove or untag yourself from any inappropriate or unprofessional content. Ensure that anything left for potential employers to see is appropriate.
2. Update Your LinkedIn Profile: Create a professional LinkedIn profile if you don’t have one, and ensure it’s up-to-date with your latest experience, skills, and professional photo. LinkedIn is often the first place employers check, so your profile should reflect your best professional self.
3. Be Consistent: Make sure your resume and your online profiles are consistent in terms of work history, education, and qualifications. Inconsistencies can raise red flags for potential employers.
4. Consider Your Content: Think carefully about the content you post or share. Aim to share content that reflects your professional interests and expertise, and that builds a positive image of you as a thoughtful and knowledgeable individual in your field.
5. Engage Professionally: Use your online presence to network with others in your industry. Engage with content, join professional groups, and participate in discussions to increase your visibility and show your engagement with your profession.
6. Maintain Privacy Settings: Stay well-versed with changes in privacy settings on various platforms to control who can see your content and personal information.
7. Don’t Erase Your Profile: While it might be tempting to delete your social media profiles, having an online presence can actually be beneficial. It allows you to showcase your personal brand, network, and be found by potential employers. Just make sure it’s a professional one.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your online presence is an asset rather than a liability in your job search.

What types of re-entry programs or support groups exist for parents returning to work?

Look for career re-entry programs geared toward parents, which can provide both practical advice and emotional support. Networking groups for professionals in your field can also offer guidance and job leads.

What tips do you have for managing the transition anxiety of rejoining the workforce?

Start by networking and connecting with mentors who have been through a similar experience. It can help to gradually increase your professional engagements before starting work full-time.

How can I address potential gaps in employment during job interviews?

Be honest about your time away from the workforce, and focus on how it has enriched your skill set. Emphasize any activities or volunteering that show your commitment and drive.

What can I do to reinvent my professional image after being out of the workforce?

Update your professional wardrobe and digital presence, including your LinkedIn profile. Attending industry events and workshops can also showcase your dedication to returning to your career.

How should I explain my employment gap in a job interview?

Explaining an employment gap in a job interview involves a few key steps:

1. Be Honest: Start by being honest about the reason for your career break. Whether it was due to family care, personal reasons, travel, education, or any other factor, it’s important to be transparent.
2. Focus on the Positive: Emphasize any positive aspects of your time away from the workforce. For instance, if you acquired new skills, volunteered, or pursued further education, highlight how these experiences have prepared you for re-entering your career.
3. Explain What You Did: Discuss the activities you were involved in during your gap. This can include any courses you took, professional development activities, freelance work, or any other productive endeavors that have kept you engaged and can be relevant to the job you’re applying for.
4. Keep It Brief: You don’t need to provide a detailed personal history. Offer a concise explanation and be ready to pivot the conversation back to why you’re the right fit for the position and how your experiences during your employment gap can add value to the company.
5. Practice Your Response: Before the interview, prepare and practice your response so you can convey your explanation confidently and clearly. Enlist a friend or family member to conduct a mock interview and provide feedback.

Remember, employment gaps are not uncommon, and many employers understand that career breaks can occur for a variety of valid reasons. The key is to prepare a thoughtful explanation that reassures the employer of your readiness and commitment to return to work.

What are returnship programs?

Returnship programs such as iRelaunch, founded by viral TED Talk speaker Carol Fishman Cohen, are initiatives designed to help individuals re-enter the workforce after an extended absence. These programs often provide a structured environment with paid, full-time employment, and are similar to internships in that they offer participants the opportunity to refresh their skills, gain new experiences, and adapt to current technologies and practices in the corporate world.

Returnships can be particularly beneficial for mid-career professionals who have taken time off for various reasons, such as caregiving or personal sabbaticals. They are typically temporary positions that can lead to permanent employment depending on the individual’s performance and the company’s hiring needs.

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