Mom, Want To Boost Your Resume?
I'm worried about my resume. I love being a stay at home mom,
but eventually I'd like to get back into the business world to
make money again. What should I do to keep my resume from having
a big empty gap in it?
Signed - Cathy Career
Dear Cathy,
Don't fret. There are plenty of ways to keep your resume
hopping. Here are just a few ideas to get you thinking.
1. Volunteer. Not many people are aware of this, but, if you
live in the United States, there's a Presidential Volunteer
Service Award that you can earn for the time you are spending
volunteering in your kids' activities. Whether you're helping at
school or through Scouts, you can earn this award. Although it
isn't business related, it does show an employer that you are
motivated and dedicated.
Or you can find leadership positions where you can volunteer.
Titles like the President of the PTA, School Fundraising
Coordinator, or a Board of Directors for an Organization look
great on your resume, plus you're setting a wonderful example
for your children.
2. Go Back to School. If you've wanted to get your degree or an
advanced degree like an MBA, you can now do it online. While
baby is sleeping, you can study and take your tests. It's not
easy, but it also shows that you had incentive during the empty
time on your resume.
3. Build a Business Look into ways you can build your own
business. If you do the legwork while baby is young and get the
foundation built, then you can either sell the business or
choose to jump in with both feet once you face going back on the
career path.
4. Be an Activist Make a name for yourself fighting for a cause
you believe in. Before you go on an interview, compile press
releases you've written, interviews, and articles along with
results and accommodations. When you're asked "What have you
been doing for the last five years." You can reply, "I've been
working to reduce child abuse by helping to pass a bill
that...." Pretty impressive. And, again, you're setting a
remarkable example for your children.
Here's my big warning. All though all of these activities will
look great on your resume, they all take time. If your goal is
to stay home and enjoy your children, don't get so loaded down
with volunteering, studying and helping others that you end up
missing out on all the childhood wonders in your own home.