Returning to the Workforce: Crafting a Compelling Resume After a Break

After taking time away from the workforce to focus on raising kids, the prospect of crafting a resume can seem daunting. But with the right approach and a bit of preparation, you can create a compelling document that highlights your skills and experiences. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make a resume that effectively showcases your unique set of abilities and prepares you for a successful job search.

1. Choose the Right Resume Format

Selecting the right resume format is crucial to effectively presenting your skills and experiences. Here are the three main formats:

Chronological: Lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, making it ideal if you have a relevant work history. Functional: Focuses on your skills and abilities, making it useful if you have gaps in employment. Combination: Combines both chronological and functional elements, providing a timeline of employment while emphasizing your skills.

2. Include Essential Contact Information

At the top of your resume, include:

Your full name Your phone number Your email address Your LinkedIn profile (if applicable)

3. Craft a Personalized Objective or Summary Statement

Your objective or summary statement should be brief yet impactful. It should convey your career goals and your unique value proposition:

Dedicated individual returning to the workforce after several years of raising children eager to leverage strong organizational and multitasking skills in a challenging role.

4. Emphasize Relevant Skills

Highlight skills that are pertinent to the jobs you are seeking. Key areas to consider include:

Time Management Communication Problem-Solving Budgeting Event Planning Skills Gained Through Managing a Household or Volunteering

5. Detail Your Work Experience

For your work experience section, list your positions in reverse chronological order. Even if you don't have formal employment, consider including:

Any relevant freelance projects Community involvement Volunteer roles For each position, include the following information: Job Title Company Name Location Dates Employed (use years only if the gap is significant) Bullet Points Outlining Responsibilities and Achievements

6. List Your Education

Start with your highest degree, including:

Degree type Major (if applicable) Institution name Graduation year or expected graduation (if applicable)

7. Include Additional Sections if Applicable

Depending on your background, you might want to include:

Certifications Volunteer Work Professional Development

8. Tailor Your Resume to Each Job Application

Customize your resume for each job by using keywords from the job description. This increases the likelihood of it being seen by hiring managers and applicant tracking systems:

9. Keep It Concise

Aim for one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. Use clear, concise language to ensure your resume is easy to read and digest:

10. Proofread Thoroughly

Check for spelling and grammatical errors. Consider having a friend or family member review it as well to catch any mistakes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Example Resume Structure

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile]

Objective
Dedicated individual returning to the workforce after several years of raising children eager to leverage strong organizational and multitasking skills in a challenging role.

Skills Time Management Communication Problem-Solving Budgeting Event Planning Skills Gained Through Managing a Household or Volunteering

Work Experience
[Your Last Job Title]
[Company Name Location] — [Dates Employed]
- [Responsibility/Achievement]
- [Responsibility/Achievement]

Volunteer Experience
[Volunteer Position]
[Organization Name Location] — [Dates]
- [Responsibility/Achievement]
- [Responsibility/Achievement]

Education
[Degree Type Major]
[Institution Name] — [Graduation Year]

Final Tips

To enhance your job search success:

Network: Reach out to friends, family, or former colleagues to let them know you’re looking for work. Practice Interviewing: Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and discussing your experience confidently.

By following these steps, you can create a resume that effectively showcases your strengths and prepares you for your job search. Good luck!