Stay at Home Mom... Forever?
Hello I am questioning..How does a Mom Transition back into the workplace? I worked in Customer Service ever since High School then accepted a position in a Pharmacy. I learned a year or so ago that I am not eligible for rehire because I only gave a one week notice instead of two. My partner and I started a family so I quit that job and stayed at home. During the few years my babies were growing I worked at home as a Receptionist for a small lawn care business. Some of the time my children were at home because it wasn't a big deal either way. I know have full time daycare first shift and am about to complete a Medical Coding and Billing Certificate to further my Career back into Medical-Insurance Billing/ Customer Service. I also have a list of past Managers and Co-workers as references. I frequently check with them [I have maintained a great past with them and still visit several of the stores to say Hi!] and they always say they still haven't had a reference check. I have time and time again revised my Resume on Indeed. That is the site I apply to all jobs on as well as referencing this site. I have about 32 College General Education Credits. I have been searching since April/May of this year when my job alerted me that working remotely is no longer helping since recent growth within the business. They are branching out further East, making it an hour minimum drive. I feel as if I am getting declined before even getting a chance. I am motivated and want a long lasting business relationship. I want to grow with a company sharpening my skills..but nothing. I was sent several rejection letters to jobs that require nothing but a HS diploma and proper equipment. How do I get recognized as a serious employee willing to go above and beyond, educate, and hold employment longer than a year or two? Did any other stay at home mom have issues re-entering the workplace? Even without a gap in employment? I wasn't expecting to be out of work this long, I need a placement and feel every month it's getting more difficult. All answers-stories appreciated. My Current Resume isn't on this website.
Hi Shaylee, Sorry to hear you're having trouble finding your next role. :( Quick answer: keep plugging away at it. I got back into the workforce by running into a friend at the mall and telling her I missed recruiting. (I started as a part-time contractor.)
Long answer: I took a look at your resume on Indeed and your administrative background looks great! Since your resume is your chance to give hiring managers an understanding of your experience, as well as your interests going forward, you may want to expand the descriptions of your roles a bit and include a 'summary' of your experience at the top of your resume.
As for your job search... I have a few questions: Are you interested in working remotely or in an office? You mentioned first-shift daycare, but then also mentioned applying for positions that require proper equipment. What kind of environment do you prefer? (You can include your preference on your resume in the 'Summary' section.) Also, have you contacted any temporary agencies? They can be a great way to broaden your experience, as well as make connections that can lead to a full-time position. Finishing your Medical Coding certificate is a great way to move into a different industry, so definitely continue with that program! Once you're done, there may be people who work for the program who can help you network into available openings.
So basically, please keep hunting! A lot of opportunities are found by word-of-mouth and being in the right place at the right time. The more effort you put in, the higher your likelihood of success. And I know it seems like it's been a long time, but given that hiring slows WAY down in the summer, it really hasn't been that long.
Keep at it, keep your spirits up, and make sure to continue to make connections and apply to lots of jobs. And Definitely check back in if you need to vent or hear words of encouragement - we're all pulling for you!
Best of luck, Marijoy