Returning to Work
So you have made the decision to return to paid employment after some time away from the workforce raising the children, NOW WHAT?
For those feeling apprehensive, unsure of what steps to take, here are some tips that may be of assistance.
Be clear
Clarifying what you want in a job is your first step towards finding one. Identifying your primary reasons for returning to work, the type of position you want, the days and hours you would like to work, the seniority of the role and what impact these will have on your family will help you focus on your objective. Once you’re clear on these issues, you’re on your way.
List your skills and achievements
Time to remind yourself about all the great things you achieved prior to exiting the workforce. Think about how successful your time was and what lessons you learnt during that period. Then move on to the time you have been out of paid employment and what you achieved during this time. Don’t underestimate the courage it takes to leave a comfortable position to pursue your own interests or to be a full time parent. Think this through and list all of your achievements.
Need help? Talk this through with your partner or close friend, you will be surprised at how many of your skills they value as special.
Capitalise on your “parenthood” skills
We often make the mistake of assuming that raising children is different to paid employment or running a business. Let’s change our focus for a minute and put that assumption to the test with some of the key attributes required by employers.
Organisational Skills
As a parent, our household would not function smoothly if we were not extremely organized and efficient. Consider all of the activities that go into keeping your home together - from housework to taking children to different activities, preparing meals, homework, shopping, paying bills, the logistics of a family holiday… need we go on?
Art of Prioritising
As a parent, you are constantly changing and juggling priorities to ensure that all of the household needs are addressed and that the children’s needs are equally balanced.
Communication and Negotiation Skills
As a parent, you are constantly communicating and negotiating with your children, your partner, your friends, the Parents’ & Teachers’ Association at school and others in your social community. Think through all the times you had to negotiate with your child about the new bike they wanted or the extra ice cream. Let’s not forget the great communication required to keep in touch with friends and keep household members on top of their daily responsibilities.
Financial Abilities
As a parent, you are required to run the household budget to ensure that all the financial commitments are covered. Sometimes you have to juggle the available funds to ensure that the mortgage is paid on time or that phone bill is covered.
Multi Tasking
An essential skill required in any type of paid role you choose, as a parent, multi-tasking is something you do every day. Picture a morning in your family home - get breakfast, feed the children, help dress the children, get yourself ready, feed family pet (if you have one), make the beds, get the lunches packed, maybe throw a load of washing on, and get the children to school or day care before their bell rings. Sound familiar?
Refresh your skills
Consider attending a refresher or community course to update your skills and provide you with an insight into new industry trends or language used. Attending these courses will boost your confidence and may provide you with an opportunity to network.
Volunteer your services
Gain some experience with any number of the “not for profit” organisations looking for volunteers to help with large range of activities.
Access our “Career Tools”
Now that’s you’ve clarified your many skills, it’s time to use the various tools and resources provided on this website to assist with your re-entry into the workforce. Part Time Online provides help with structuring your resume, writing impressive cover letters, practicing your interviewing skills and other tips you might need in finding your next job.
Good luck!
Available courses for Parents returning to work
TAFE – North Coast Institute
See Regional Campuses on the site
Statement of Attainment in Work Opportunities for Women (WOW)
This part-time course is ideal for women who want to develop their confidence, experience or vocational skills to enter the workforce.
www.nci.tafensw.edu.au/courses/general%20education/4195.htm
PARENTS RETURNING TO WORK PROGRAM
The Parents Returning to Work Program is a State Government initiative designed to assist parents prepare for re-entry into the workforce.
For Victoria - www.parentsreturntowork.net.au For South Australia - www.returntowork.sa.gov.au
For more information see www.parttimeonline.com.au
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