Whether you’ve spent a year or several out of the workforce, transitioning back into a full-time job can be tough. Luckily, a lot of what you’ve learned caring for your kids can also help you land a job. Check out our list of 5 tips every dad should know before reentering the workforce.
5. Use your connections.
Even if it’s been awhile since you last talked, reach out to former coworkers to let them know you’re back on the job market. Send a short email listing what you’ve been up to professionally (this is a great time to mention any freelance work or industry events you’ve attended), what positions you’re currently looking at, and who you should talk to. Also remember to attach an updated resume!
4. Schedule time to work on your resume.
You’re a stay-at-home dad, which means you’re great at multi-tasking. However, to build a great resume, you need a chunk of interrupted time. So plan on your wife, other family member, or babysitter, to take the kids for a few hours. Your resume is your foot in the door and you don’t want any mistakes on it.
3. Play up your ability to multi-task.
As we said above, stay-at-home dads are some of the greatest multi-taskers. Who else could keep one eye on a child, one eye on the stove, all while carrying on a phone call? Employers love this skill because it often leads to productivity. You have learned a lot in your time away from the workforce, don’t be afraid to site examples!
2. Keep your cover letter professional.
There’s no point in hiding the fact that you’ve been a stay-at-home dad for X amount of years. Employers will see gaps on your resume and wonder what you were doing. That said, your cover letter should not be solely dedicated to what you’ve done as a dad. As we said above, some skills, like multi-tasking, are applicable and relevant to discuss. But generally, your cover letter should have a professional tone and highlight your career accomplishments.
1. Do your research.
Chances are good that there have been some big changes in your industry/company since you left. Catch up on developments, new best practices, etc. before sending out your cover letter and resume. Employers are looking for candidates who have their finger on the pulse and are actively following trends.
What advice would you give stay-at-home dads who are reentering the workforce? Let us know in the comments below!
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flickr by Jixar
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