Can Mom Skills be applied in the workforce?
Q: I am considering re-entering the workforce after being a stay-at-home mom for the past 10 years. Previously, I had two years work experience with the federal government, just after graduating from university. How do I fill the gap in my employment history on my resume, and how do I display the skills I used at home for the past 10 years to make myself look employable? T.H., North Bay, Ont.
A: First of all, I want to applaud your decision; I am sure this was not easy. But I know the rewards of staying home with your children will far outweigh the challenges you will face re-entering the workforce. As long as you understand there will be a transition period, I think you will be fine.
Your resume will be a key marketing tool for promoting yourself. As you write it, remember, the average employer spends less than two minutes with a resume. It needs to tell your story quickly and uniquely.
Here are some sources to draw on:
- Include any involvement in community organizations, charities or your children's schools. Some of those volunteer roles would have used and highlighted your abilities. It is especially helpful if you had a title attached, such as president of the parent council. Use these details to tell some of your story.
- Consider all of the things you've been doing with your family during the past 10 years. Put a list together. Most clients surprise themselves when they do this. Create an inventory of experiences and put these in your profile.
- Use a skills-based resume instead of a chronological resume. This may be more effective.
A key in your transition will be leveraging your personal contacts. More than 70% of positions are filled with people the employer already knew.
A: First of all, I want to applaud your decision; I am sure this was not easy. But I know the rewards of staying home with your children will far outweigh the challenges you will face re-entering the workforce. As long as you understand there will be a transition period, I think you will be fine.
Your resume will be a key marketing tool for promoting yourself. As you write it, remember, the average employer spends less than two minutes with a resume. It needs to tell your story quickly and uniquely.
Here are some sources to draw on:
- Include any involvement in community organizations, charities or your children's schools. Some of those volunteer roles would have used and highlighted your abilities. It is especially helpful if you had a title attached, such as president of the parent council. Use these details to tell some of your story.
- Consider all of the things you've been doing with your family during the past 10 years. Put a list together. Most clients surprise themselves when they do this. Create an inventory of experiences and put these in your profile.
- Use a skills-based resume instead of a chronological resume. This may be more effective.
A key in your transition will be leveraging your personal contacts. More than 70% of positions are filled with people the employer already knew.
posted by Alan Kearns at 10:52 AM
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