Resume Writing Tips For Parents Returning To Work After Raising Children

By Author: Red Tape Busters
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Job application writing for parents returning to work after taking time off to raise children can be both exciting and daunting. As a mum (or dad) re-entering the workforce, you may face the overwhelming task of updating your resume to appropriately reflect your talents and experiences, while also feeling as if you have nothing to contribute. In this article, we will provide valuable tips for parents returning to work on how to write a compelling resume despite an extended break and highlight how valuable parenting skills can make you a worthwhile candidate. By following these guidelines, you can confidently showcase your strengths, bridge the employment gap, and secure a fulfilling position.

Include A Summary to Get Noticed
A good job application writer knows that beginning your resume with a robust professional summary is more likely to get your application noticed. A summary can powerfully emphasise your valuable transferable talents, relevant experiences, and future goals. Take this opportunity to showcase the breadth and depth of your professional value by highlighting your exceptional abilities and notable ...
... successes. By crafting a concise yet impactful section, you can capture the attention of potential employers, leaving a lasting impression that sets the tone for the rest of your resume. A well-crafted professional summary serves as a strategic tool, succinctly encapsulating your unique skills, expertise, and aspirations, thereby enticing employers to delve deeper into the remainder of your impressive qualifications and achievements.

Highlight Transferable Skills
While you may have been away from the traditional workforce, your time as a parent has most likely equipped you with a range of highly valuable transferable skills. These skills include time management, multitasking, problem-solving, organisation, conflict management and communication. Tailor your resume to emphasise these skills, linking them to the requirements of the job you're applying for. Show how your experiences as a parent have prepared you for the challenges of the workplace.

Tailor Resumes Specifically
When job application writing for a specific position, carefully review the job description and tailor your resume accordingly. The ideal method to accomplish this is to create a 'master' resume that serves as the foundation for all applications, while also producing a copy to amend for specific applications so that you do not lose information on other talents and experiences that may be irrelevant to the application at hand. Highlight the skills, experiences, and achievements that directly align with the requirements of the specific job role. By customising your resume to each application, you demonstrate attention to detail and a genuine interest in the position, thus increasing your chances of being shortlisted for an interview.

Focus on Relevant Training and Education
During your job application writing, don't forget to highlight any courses, workshops, or certifications you've completed during your time away from work. These accomplishments are a testament to your commitment to personal and professional growth. Be sure to include any relevant training that has enhanced your skills or aligns with the industry you are targeting. By highlighting your continuous learning journey, you demonstrate your adaptability and determination to stay current in your field. Employers value the fact that you are not resting on your laurels and are actively finding methods to grow your knowledge and expertise. They will regard you as someone who is constantly striving to improve themselves and ready to bring new ideas to the table.

Consider a Functional Resume Format
A functional resume format may be more advantageous than a chronological resume for parents returning to work after an extended break. This format emphasises skills and accomplishments over a time-based work history. By organising your resume based on relevant skills, you can draw attention away from the employment gap and focus on your abilities and achievements. Note that you may still be asked to address gaps or the chronological sequence of employment during an interview, but the goal of the resume is to gain that interview first, then focus on selling yourself in person.

Showcase Relevant Volunteer Work
During your time away from paid employment, you may have engaged in volunteer work or contributed to community organisations. Include these experiences on your resume, highlighting any relevant skills or accomplishments. Volunteer work may demonstrate your commitment, leadership, and willingness to contribute, as well as your ability to operate in a team, boosting your marketability to potential employers.

Address the Employment Gap
When job application writing, it is crucial to address the employment gap on your resume rather than failing to explain it. The time spent away from the workplace can be explained with a simple and honest phrase, such as "Career break to focus on raising and nurturing my family." Being honest and acknowledging the career break demonstrates your dedication to your family. Employers who are not family-friendly may choose not to interview you as a result, which is perfectly ok. It allows you to focus on finding opportunities that align better with your priorities and values. Ultimately, you want to find an organization that values work-life balance and appreciates the diverse experiences you bring to the table.

Seek Professional Guidance
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about whether your job application writing efforts are strong enough to present your skills and experiences effectively, consider seeking professional assistance from job application writing experts. Professional job application writers can provide personalised guidance, helping you write a job application that highlights your strengths and addresses any potential concerns or challenges related to your career break.

Returning to work after an extended break as a parent is an exciting journey filled with new opportunities. By following these resume writing tips, you can confidently showcase your skills, experiences, and personal growth to potential employers. Remember, your time as a parent has equipped you with valuable transferable skills that can positively impact your career trajectory. Embrace your strengths, address the employment gap with authenticity, and present yourself as a well-rounded professional. With a compelling resume and a positive mindset, you can navigate the job market successfully and secure a rewarding position.

More About the Author
Red Tape Busters is a Brisbane based company although we have clients all over Australia. We provide tender writer in Sydney, grant writer in Melbourne, council lobbying, job application writing. We are now active in the Sydney market – very active actually and we can assist non profit organizations and businesses in accessing Government, council and commercial tender opportunities. For more information, please visit - https://redtapebusters.com/

Red Tape Busters is a Brisbane based company although we have clients all over Australia. We provide tender writer in Sydney, grant writer in Melbourne, council lobbying, job application writing. We are now active in the Sydney market – very active actually and we can assist non profit organizations and businesses in accessing Government, council and commercial tender opportunities. For more information, please visit - https://redtapebusters.com/