• The interview process
• Alternative options - working from home
• Prepare before you leave
• Helpful resources
• 8 FAB Steps to Find a Super Sitter!
• Improve your chances of getting the job you want
• Creating an impressive resume

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Improve your chances of getting the job you want

Stay active. Not as in chasing your toddler tornado through the house cleaning up their trail of destruction active. Rather, be clear about what you want to do when you return and continually keep yourself up-to-date on changes and trends associated with your field of expertise. This could include attending trade associations, workshops, events or a refresher course. If getting out and about is difficult, invest in relevant books, magazines, even an online course.  Keeping yourself “plugged in” will help you to seamlessly re-enter the work force with the expertise and knowledge to secure that fantastic position.

If you know you are going to be out of the work force for a short period of time, make sure you maintain membership with relevant industry/trade associations or professional groups. Continue to attend functions networking yourself amongst potential employers.

Once you know the time is right to return to work, start scoping out jobs on the market. Let friends, ex-work colleagues and associates know you are available and actively looking for something. Communicating your desire to work will help increase the chances of finding that perfect job.

Keep your finger on the pulse. Regularly check to see what positions are available on the job market. Sign up for email job alerts - a service provided by most reputable recruiters and job seeking sites. Make a note of the available positions that you are interested in and ask yourself what skill sets are required for these jobs. Do you need to upgrade your skill set to improve your chances of securing such positions?

When you speak with a potential employer, be clear about your flexibility requirements and demonstrate how your expertise and experience is highly suitable to the job being advertised. Also, know how much you are worth. Unfortunately, many women accept a reduced salary because they are so grateful for the opportunity to return to work. This is not the way to look at it. Your career to date and the challenges of parenthood should be acknowledged in your remuneration.

If you have been out of the workplace for a long while, consider doing volunteer work to re-engage with the workplace on a non-paid basis. This will help build your self-confidence and tune up your skills.

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