Re-entering Work Force

[sageofages]

Originally posted by blueangel
Fortunately, the prejudice against stay-at-home moms is disappearing. Life happens. People have children. People leave work to raise children. Be proud of the fact that you were able to be there for your children.

Personally, I applaud anybody who can stay home to raise their children. And, as one who is in a hiring position, I do not hold that against the person... but rather, I look at it as a plus. I admire people who can do so.

Maybe the problem is that you're trying to hide it, and feel ashamed of being out of the workforce for a period of time. Don't be! Potential employees can sniff out when someone is feeling "weak" or "ashamed" about their background. Tell them up front what that gap was and say it with positively!

As the previous poster said... just be sure you are current in your job field. If that means taking a computer course, or whatever.. do it!

I agree with the other poster about this point too-- I would just list your previous work experience without dates. You can explain the employment gap in an interview when the prospective employer you asks when you worked at each position.

And remember... NEVER fudge your resume, and never lie in an interview. You WILL be found out. Most employers do extensive background checks before hiring.

I find many government jobs require dates. I did freelance and virtual work while primarily being stay at home.

Here is what I put on my resume:

Home Economist /Residential Management
Bäckström Family Household, Location varied.
Special Interest in Child Development and Education. Domicile Management, sanitation requirements. Budget Analysis and materials procurement. Schedule coordination. Transportation. Conflict Resolution. Mar 1988-present. FT-168/wk.


You would be amazed at how many people have asked about it. Only a few actually got it and applauded what it represented. I found it to be a great conversation boost to highlight how integral my skills are to everything I do.