Mar 29
Parenting Corner – Going back to work
Q: My kids are both in school so I’m thinking about going back to work. I have been out of the workforce for 7 years and without an advanced degree I fear I can’t find a job. Do you have any advice?
A: Great question! First, congratulations on your decision to go back to work. Being a mother is the MOST important job and yet it’s vital that women have/create a sense of self beyond “Mom” to ease what can feel like a loss of identity when kids inevitably grow up and leave the house. Going back to work can be a wonderful first step in rediscovering yourself if you haven’t made time to do so up to this point.
Before you begin your search you must address your “fear” about the amount of time you have been out of the workforce and your lack of advanced degree.
#1 Mindset – Remember nothing has any meaning until you give it meaning. What does it mean to you that you have been out of the workforce for 7 years? What does it mean to you to not have an advanced degree? Whatever you believe, it’s important to ask yourself “is it true?” Often we make up stories to support our negative beliefs; if you’re making up the story, what prevents you from making up one that serves you? Ask what are the benefits of being out of the workforce (i.e. eager to learn, skills of being a mom applicable to any job)? What are the benefits of not having an advanced degree (i.e. previous successes without one, willingness to work hard)? Make a list of all the benefits an employer would experience by having you on their team. The truth is the only thing that holds you back from finding a job is you. Everyone has a gift to share; you need to be able to articulate yours.
#2 Stack Proof – Once you have tackled your mindset around your fears, it’s time to stack proof that it’s possible. The easiest way to do this is to identify women who have already done it and talk with them. Start with your network; ask friends if they know anyone who has returned to the workforce after an extended time off to raise kids. Don’t assume because you don’t know anyone directly that your friends don’t have family or extended contacts that have experienced what you are going through. Make a list of the questions to ask the women you will meet; be sure to include questions that will help you get past your fears and build your confidence. For example: What was the greatest challenge you faced returning to work? How did potential employers react when you told them you had been out of the workforce? Google “moms returning to work” and you will find more than 4 million references. There are companies that help moms in your position and plenty of reference material to assist you in the process. (NOTE: If you can’t find anyone, please email me; I have coached a few.) Finding role models can build your confidence and help you build a network for when you are ready to begin your job search.
#3 Result – It’s important to understand the result you want from going back into the workforce and create a result statement to support it. Think beyond money; although it can be part of the result you’re looking for, it alone is rarely enough to inspire a great occupational fit. Finding a job will take time and attention away from family which can create internal conflict. Without a clear result it can be easy to become discouraged and/or get frustrated with the process.
What is a result statement? A result statement is a clear statement around your goal that includes emotion to keep you motivated during your search. You can include characteristics of your ideal work environment or language that offers you comfort in financially contributing to the family or whatever works best to motivate you. For example: “I am excited as I secure a new position that utilizes my skills and talents in a friendly, fun work environment” or “I am proud to be utilizing my skills and talents in a new position while helping to financially support my family.” The result statement will remind you of your goal and keep you resourceful in your search to achieve it.
Your ability to find a job regardless of time out of the workforce or lack of advanced degree begins with mindset; once you are in a strong mental place you can begin to take action toward finding your ideal career. Good luck!
Laura Treonze, serves as Chief Life Strategist with LMT Consulting, which helps executives and teams create massive success through self-awareness. Her life-changing approach has transformed individuals and families and has redefined the way non-profits and corporations “do” business.
