Ask Ella: How Does Mom Get Back To Work?

Dear Ella

I have been a stay-at-home mom for six years. Now that my children are closer to school age, I want to return to the work force, but I find that because of my time off from the work world, I am frowned upon.

I have a bachelor's degree, 10-plus years in management and extensive sales experience. During my time away from working -- for pay, that is -- I did extensive volunteer work for children and community-based organizations.

I no longer want to do sales, but would rather work with children in some capacity. I have had my resume tailored to emphasize my child-relation skills but still haven't been hired. Any suggestions?

Dear Much To Offer,

I suspect that you're describing your fears rather than the actual reality of your situation.

Develop a firmer grasp on how combining your work history and academics with your added experience as a mother, caretaker, community volunteer, activist and child advocate adds to your marketability and supports your interests. You'll not only have mapped out your professional direction, you'll have constructed a list of tangible qualifiers, too.

From what I know of your background, you may want to consider applying at private elementary or preschools as a senior administrator. You have the formal work processes, education, presentation, communication, child experience and interests that would make you an appealing candidate.

Once you're on board and have had a chance to understand the various disciplines that make up the organization, you can fine-tune your career focus and the selection of continuing studies programs that best support your occupational choice.

When restarting a career, it can be hard to see your value and how it fits within the broader landscape of the workforce. By breaking down hard and soft skills and by examining sectors of greatest interest and appropriateness, you will find your professional footing and your best-suited direction, too.

Private Career Coaching Workshop With Ella Kallish

• How To Write A Resume
• How To Market A Resume
• How To Follow Up On A Resume Sent
• Beginning, Middle And End: An Interviewing Strategy
• Program Provides Opportunity For Continuing Ed
A Thought: Documenting Your Work Life

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Written By Ella Kallish
For more information on Ella Kallish go to AskElla.com.
Ella Kallish is available for corporate and group seminars.