Move from Mom life to work life?

shilpasharma·May 04, 2022

Hi everyone,

After being a Stay-At-Home Mom for almost 10 years, its time for me to pick up my boots once again and get back to the hustle.

A quick intro- I have an Engineer's degree from India(2002-2006) and an MBA from Spain(2010-11).

Working as an HR with the TATA group,post my MBA, brought me utmost joy. On a career break to nurture my family since 2012. I'm a Certified Life Coach with my expertise as a Career Coach and has been working as a Passionpreneur since 2015.

My question to you guys out there is, what does it take to secure a job at this point in time?

Is it an upgade through an additional degree or certification OR reference OR job application in large number OR a resume facelift?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Iynna·May 05, 2022

Sending you so much love and support. Any transition is HARD but I feel like being going back to work after an extended break can be even more daunting! Big congratulations for taking the leap. I do think a resume facelift will be needed (not sure what it looks like right now) but it will need to be super strong and related to the roles you are applying to. Additionally, applying is also a numbers' game so I'd suggest you set metrics of how many apps you want to send out every week. I'd also recommend connecting with people at firms you are targeting or similar roles so you can have an in and build your network along the way (because we all know your network is your net worth).What type of roles do you want to be in? Mostly HR or trying to pivot? You got this!

michellesmanifesto·May 05, 2022

This is awesome to hear! I'm currently in the job search process after taking a mini-break from being a new mom again. I can share what's helped me, but can't say it's worked because here I am still seeking job hunting.- believe in yourself, your skills, your background and your worth- join communities like Elpha, and other groups related to the field you want to get into- cold applying to jobs and expecting a call-back is very rare these days; on top of just applying, you need to network with people at the company, message a recruiter- get visible on LinkedIn- network, network, network - attend workshops, sessions, conferences, local meet-ups- a warm intro/referral will help bring your resume to the top of the pile- give yourself some grace through the process & space to resetHave you tried looking at returnship programs? Here is a great resource: https://www.pathforward.org/Also check out: https://themomproject.comWish you the best of luck! Happy to support any way I can

rachelserwetz·May 11, 2022

hi @shilpasharma ! Here are a few job search best practices I'd consider:- Determine what support system you have in place to help you be effective throughout your job search -- Most people feel they have to go it alone and end up guessing where to spend their time versus leveraging a coach, mentor, peer or other tools and resources to be strategic- Most importantly is understanding how/where to spend your time wisely -- its not all about the online apps but networking is a critical component, as well as balancing some time for other key activities in job search (virtual events, thought leadership, research, reflection, etc)- Determine your accountability plan to make sure you're staying on top of your goals & staying organized- Reflect on how things are going on a weekly basis to iterate & improve your approach and thus your outcomes-Be sure not to approach the job in a transactional, check-the-box sort of way -- see networking and interviews as a mirror into the job you would land and an opportunity for two-way assessment of fit- Consider how many roles/industries you're applying to-- this may be a sign that you'd want to take a step back and pursue career exploration to clarify your ideal fit direction; career clarity will help make your search more efficient, targeted, and effective- Don't ignore your self care to ensure your mindset is staying resilient during your searchI'm Rachel, a Career Coach (iamwoken.com) - If you're seeking help in your job search let me know! (i.e. strengthening personal branding materials, effectively networking, understanding the suggested balance of time to spend across the key 7 activities in your job search, setting weekly goals, measuring your progress & self-reflections, interview practice, the impact of clarifying your ideal pathway, and more). I offer a ton of free videos and blogs on my website here - iamwoken.com/resources and I'd be happy to chat on a free coaching call here -- calendly.com/woken/demo

shilpasharma·May 12, 2022

Thank you so much. Appreciate your help and valuable suggestion. I myself am a certified career coach and work as a passionpreneur but I feel the need to join an organization to be able to amalgamate my HR skill set with my coaching expertise hence decide to look for work. I shall visit your website surely. Thanks again!