Since I have school-age children I meet many moms that decided to take a break from their “career track” to stay home with their children.  As our children have gotten older, I find myself working with many of these moms as they consider returning to work after their extended break.  I recently attended a session by Carol Fishman Cohen on this very topic and learned some great ideas to use as I coach and write resumes for these moms interested in returning to work.

Cohen’s 2007 book, “Back on the Career Track” and her website offers tons of advice, tips and resources.  There are a few nuggets that I found especially helpful.

1.  It is critical how you tell your story.  Even while staying at home, moms have tons of accomplishments that can be framed to success in the workplace.  Figure out your accomplishments, write them down and practice presenting them in a success-driven way.
2. Be energetic and enthusiastic about your time out of the workplace, as well as, returning to the workplace.
3. Volunteer at a professional work group event, ideally in a sector you are interested in working in.
4. Determine what has transpired in your target industry.  Get training so that your skills are on par with other candidates.
5. There is nothing wrong with taking a position that is below the level you were before you took your hiatus.  Cohen even suggests a “returnship”, which means even choosing an internship to test the waters of your career search.
6. Don’t forget your network.  LinkedIn helps you connect with peers from previous companies you worked at and alumni groups.
7. Prepare for how an outside-the-home job will effect your family, home and other obligations.  Consider how you can re-work your routine, enlist your kids to take on more responsibility and offload menial tasks to a paid option.
8. Make sure your technology skills are up to snuff and prepare for a workplace where your boss might now be younger than you.

Just like any after school event or family vacation, returning to work requires thoughtful planning and detailed execution.  Don’t forget to update your resume (or have a professional do it), create or update your LinkedIn profile and even complete an assessment or two to determine what a viable path might be as you re-enter the workplace.  Good luck!