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How stay-at-home parents can prepare for transition
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Even if you’re not yet ready to return to the workforce, there are plenty of things you can do to smooth the way for the future.
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Published: November 5, 2008
Many stay-at-home parents are making the transition from the playroom to the boardroom. Some have sent their youngest child to school and always planned to return to work at this time. Others are feeling the crunch of a struggling economy and need a second income.
Returning to work seems daunting, but it doesn't have to be if you develop a plan. Whether you're looking for a 9-to-5 job, or are thinking about working from home, consider the following ideas when preparing your journey back to the world of work:
Consider a career change
Wendy Tobin, an academic and career counselor with Mitchell Community College's Mooresville Center says that most of her clients are making a career change. "After having children, they've matured and want something different," she says. "Many move into service-oriented industries, such as teaching or health care. Self-satisfaction is important (to them) at this point in their life."
Do some homework when contemplating a career change:
+ Research yourself: What are your interests? What skills do you possess? What values do you want reflected in your job?
+ Investigate careers: People working in your careers of interest are the best resources. Set up an informational interview or a job shadow with someone.
+ Fill in the gaps: What skills do you need to improve? Are there courses, degrees, or licensures you have to pursue?
Helpful Hint: Even if not taking courses, North Carolina residents can meet with Mitchell Community College counselors. Check out www.mitchellcc.edu/studserv/counseling/ for more information.
Stay informed of new trends in your field
Between soccer games and recitals, read magazines and trade journals within your profession. Visit your former employer's and their competitor's Web sites. Join a professional association.
Amanda Kirkpatrick of the Public Relations Society of America's Charlotte Chapter suggests that "attending luncheons and seminars will let you hear from speakers on topics that apply to your field, and also put you in front of key leaders in your community."
Helpful Hint: If you take a college course, you may qualify for less expensive student memberships with professional associations.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to keep one foot in the grownup world while remaining home with your kids, and you choose how much time and energy you can commit. Nonprofit organizations always need volunteers. Look to your child's school, your church, or causes of interest to you.
Helpful Hint: Choose your involvement based on talents you want to develop, such as writing, organizing events, accounting, etc. You can then refer to your volunteer duties when the time comes for resumes and interviews.
Network
Many job opportunities are found by word of mouth, so networking is an essential job search tool. You've already established a network as a stay-at-home parent: Other parents and teachers, for example. The list goes on, including those you knew before you became a parent. Don't hesitate to reach out to your network. If they can, they'll be willing to help.
Helpful Hint: Order business cards and give them to anyone with whom you meet. Make free or inexpensive professional business cards at: www.freeprintablebusinesscards.net or www.vistaprint.com.
Plan early
Is there anything in steps one through four you can do now even if your target back-to-work date is one year away? Allow enough time for preparation.
Helpful Hint: If planning to take college courses, placement tests may be required beforehand. Give yourself time to prepare for them.
Transitioning from being a stay-at-home parent to working professional doesn't have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you'll be ready for the change when it comes.
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