Going back to the workforce after raising kids can be as terrifying as when one had made a decision to leave it and raise kids. No matter how few or many years a woman has put her career on hold to raise her kids, it would always be challenging to get back.
Sadly, some employers also have doubts in hiring moms who once left their career to pursue motherhood. Going back to the corporate world may be difficult, but it is possible. Suzy Welch of Today shares 4 strategies for moms to get back to the workforce after raising kids.
1. Set new expectations.
When a mother makes a decision to stay at home, she understands the possible consequences of leaving the corporate world. Technology is always updating and what you know before may already be obsolete when you attempt to go back to the workforce. Unless you have kept yourself updated with the technologies of your industry, it would be unrealistic to expect that you could go back to the workforce the way you once left it. There is a probability that you may have to start again at a lower level than your last role. It may hurt your pride a bit, but the years you spent with your kids can never be substituted by any position in your industry.
Going back to the corporate world may be difficult, but it is possible.
2. Update yourself.
The hiring manager will definitely notice a missing skill set on your resume, and it is also unwise to overpromise that you can learn a certain skill in just a matter of time. However, you need not worry as there are several online courses which you could take in order to update yourself in the industry.
3. Market yourself.
In today’s digital generation, Googling a candidate has already become a necessity for many companies, and since you’ve been out of the workforce, they may not be able to get a lot of information about you online. Try to create a professional profile online (like LinkedIn), and market yourself during the interview. Show the hiring manager that you can still keep up with the latest technology and that you are still “in the loop”.
4. Be ready to face new challenges head on.
The greatest challenge in getting back to the workforce after your years of absence is being able to sell yourself and convince them that you are ready. Make it clear that you will be a positive contribution to the company and that you are fully committed in continuing your career.
While these strategies may seem overwhelming, remember that you also once were able to face the challenges of being a full-time mom. Sure, it won’t be easy, but it is possible with the right attitude!
Source: Today