Tips For Stay-At-Home Moms Getting Back To Work
BOSTON (CBS) - It's tough to find a job, and even harder for a stay-at-home mom looking to get back to her career.
Even if you have been out of the work force for awhile, there are some strategies to improve the chances of landing a great position.
Robyn Barker left a fast-paced, high-level marketing job three years ago to spend more time with her children. Now, she is ready to go back to the office.
WBZ-TV's Paula Ebben reports.
"The economy has changed the job-hunting landscape for me in that it's just that much more competitive," she said.
That means women like Robyn need to be ready to tackle this new situation head on. Even a few simple strategies can help improve a job applicant's chances.
To start a professional make over, look at your e-mail address. Anything that sounds like "Billysmom@aol.com" needs to be changed to something more suitable.
"You've got to be ready to walk in there and show the employer that you're ready, competent, and confident," said Ellen Gordon, a career consultant.
Facebook and LinkedIn might not have even existed when you were last in a professional setting, but be aware that employers will do their own research on social media. Give your entries a once-over to make sure everything is appropriate.
Gordon says not to fret over an employment gap on your resume. She advises clients to fill it with skills obtained as a busy mom, such as volunteering and running committees.
"If you've been talking to colleagues since you left your last job and offering free advice, which is often the case, then the day you left that last job you became a consultant," added Gordon.
Family commitments will be different his time around, so take that into consideration as well.
"Our strategy, and I say our strategy because my husband and I will have to really work as a team is preparing our family for the transition," said Robyn.
Check into daycare situations, and ask a regular babysitter if they can work extra hours. It also helps to encourage independence in your kids.
"You've got to create routines in terms of menus, laying out outfits that are ready to wear, freezing cooking on the weekend," advised Gordon.
Here is something else to consider: studies show women earn 10% less for every two years they're out of the workforce.
