Returning to work after taking time out to raise a family can be a daunting prospect for many mums. Questions about relevancy of skills, current industry trends, and how to balance family and work responsibilities are common. Here are some helpful tips for UK mums planning to re-enter the job market.
Update Your Skills and Knowledge
The first step is to ensure your skills and knowledge are up to date. Whether it’s refreshing your software knowledge, brushing up on industry standards, or learning entirely new skills, this will make you more marketable. There are numerous online courses and tutorials available, many of them free. Sites like Coursera and edX offer a wide range of courses in different disciplines.
Revamp Your CV
Your CV needs to reflect your current ambitions and highlight your relevant experience. Don’t leave a gap for the time spent raising children. Instead, highlight the valuable skills you’ve developed during this time. Skills like multitasking, conflict resolution, time management, and budgeting are highly transferable and valuedemployers. Be sure to also include any voluntary work, part-time roles, or relevant courses you’ve completed.
Practice Interview Techniques
Interviews can be intimidating, especially if it’s been a while since you last had one. Practice makes perfect. Rehearse common interview questions, ensuring your answers align with the job you’re applying for. Emphasise the unique perspective you bring as a returning mum and the skills you’ve honed during your time away.
Network
Leverage your network to find potential job opportunities. Connect with old colleagues, attend industry events, and join online networking platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can often lead to opportunities that are not advertised.
Research the Current Job Market
Understanding the current job market can provide a clearer picture of where you fit in. What’s the demand for your skills? Are there new roles that didn’t exist before your career break? This knowledge can help guide your job search and identify where you may need further training.
Consider Part-Time or Remote Work
Returning to full-time work immediately might not be the best option for everyone. Part-time or remote work can provide a balance between your career and family responsibilities. Many companies now offer flexible working conditions, which can be beneficial for returning mums.
Be Confident
Perhaps the most important tip is to believe in yourself. Confidence is attractive to potential employers. Don’t undervalue the skills and experience you’ve gained from raising a family.
Know Your Worth
Finally, before you accept any job offer, know your worth. Research the average UK salary for the role you’re applying for. Consider your experience, skills, and the going market rate. Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary and other benefits.
Returning to work after raising a family can be challenging, but with preparation and confidence, it can also be an exciting new chapter. Remember, your experience as a mum brings a unique and valuable skillset to the workplace. So dust off your CV, update your LinkedIn profile, and get ready to take the job marketstorm. You’ve got this, Mum!