So, you're getting ready to jump back into the workforce after dedicating time to raising your babies. It's a mix of nerves and excitement, right? Well, let's tackle the first step: getting your resume ready. You open up your laptop, all set to start drafting, but suddenly, you hit a roadblock. What do you even put on your resume? Doubts start creeping in. Will they question why your last job was so long ago? Where do you even begin?
If this sounds familiar, don't worry, my friend. I've got a few tips to help you out:
1. Consider a Hybrid-Style Resume to Emphasize Relevant Skills
A hybrid resume is a combination of a chronological and functional resume. It allows you to highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments at the beginning, followed by a concise work history section. This format is ideal for stay-at-home parents who want to showcase their transferable skills upfront.
By utilizing a hybrid resume, you can draw attention to your abilities, such as project management, organization, or budgeting, before diving into your employment history. This approach effectively shifts the focus from the employment gap to your qualifications, giving potential employers a clear understanding of what you bring to the table.
Your time away from the traditional workforce doesn't diminish the value of your skills and experiences. A hybrid resume can help you highlight those strengths and make a strong impression on hiring managers.
2. Be Direct and Address the Employment Gap
In your work history section, include "Stay-at-Home Parent 2018- Present" (or whatever the relevant dates are). This way, you acknowledge the gap and provide clarity to the hiring team.
Example of formatting:
Work History
Stay-at-Home Parent January 2018 - Present
Marketing Specialist; Coca-Cola July 2015 – January 2018
3. Don't Underestimate the Power of Volunteering
Include any volunteering experience you've had, whether it's helping out with the PTA, fundraising, or any other activities. Volunteering demonstrates your commitment, dedication, and ability to take on responsibilities outside of your home. And don't be afraid to brag a bit! If you helped raise $5K in donations for your child's school, share that achievement proudly.
4. Highlight Your Kick-Ass Parent Skills!
Being a parent involves a whole range of amazing talents that are transferable to the workplace. Choose the skills you love and excel at and make them shine on your resume. These skills are highly valued by employers and can set you apart from other candidates.
Here is a list of skills to provide you with some inspiration. Select the ones that resonate with you and align with the job you're applying for, and showcase them proudly on your resume.
- Time management: Balancing multiple responsibilities efficiently and effectively.
- Multitasking: Juggling various tasks and priorities simultaneously.
- Problem-solving: Analyzing situations, finding solutions, and making sound decisions.
- Communication: Effectively conveying information and actively listening to others.
- Organization: Planning and coordinating activities to ensure smooth operations.
- Adaptability: Thriving in dynamic environments and embracing change.
- Leadership: Guiding and motivating others towards achieving common goals.
- Patience: Maintaining composure and remaining calm under pressure.
- Negotiation: Finding mutually beneficial outcomes and resolving conflicts.
- Emotional intelligence: Understanding/managing emotions, both your own & others'.
- Creativity: Thinking outside the box and finding innovative solutions.
- Resilience: Bouncing back from setbacks and demonstrating perseverance.
- Teamwork: Collaborating and building positive relationships with colleagues.
- Flexibility: Embracing different schedules and adapting to evolving circumstances.
- Attention to detail: Being thorough and meticulous in completing tasks accurately.
- Resourcefulness: Making the most of available resources and finding creative solutions.
- Project management: Planning, organizing, and executing projects successfully.
- Decision-making: Assessing options and making informed choices.
- Conflict resolution: Effectively addressing and resolving disagreements.
- Empathy: Understanding and relating to the needs and feelings of others.
You've gained incredible skills throughout your journey as a parent, and it's time to showcase them. Embrace this new chapter with confidence and let your resume reflect all the awesomeness you bring to the table!
Embrace Your Journey
As you embark on your journey back into the workforce, remember that being a stay-at-home parent has equipped you with a multitude of valuable skills and experiences. Crafting a resume that highlights these strengths will set you apart from other candidates and showcase your unique qualifications.
Best of luck on your journey, and remember, you've got this!
Until next time!
Michelle