Looking to return to work, what to put in initial email?

[Anonymous]

I've been a SAHM for several years and am ready to jump back into working. I just found out that my former employer is hiring, and a friend/former colleague who is now a supervisor suggested I send her an email expressing my interest in returning that she can forward to management (bypassing HR). How much information should I put in the email? The top manager is someone I worked with briefly before I left so my name will be familiar to him but that's about it. Unfortunately the manager who knew me best left recently. Should I include a general statement about being ready to return to work or not mention being a SAHM at all?

[Anonymous]

Do not mention bring a Sahm, just express interest in position and go from there

[Anonymous]

Agree. They may ask (or not) what you did during that period. Have a one sentence answer and then move on to the future.

[Anonymous]

Agree with PPs - express interest in the position, sell your ability to do the job - mention past accomplishments etc. - and leave it at that. If you get to the interview stage, they will probably ask about it at which point you give a brief answer and move on.

Signed,

SAHM in the same position

[Anonymous]

Thanks all, I sent a short email expressing interest and providing my contact info and my friend passed it along. They're hiring entry level folks now but I know when I was there I saw people leave and return (although not after such a long absence!) and I think if I can bypass HR they'll give me a good look since I wouldn't have to go through the extensive training new people do and i was a pretty solid performer back in the day. Another former colleague told me a while ago that he thought they'd want me back when I was ready but of course that person has moved on recently.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks all, I sent a short email expressing interest and providing my contact info and my friend passed it along. They're hiring entry level folks now but I know when I was there I saw people leave and return (although not after such a long absence!) and I think if I can bypass HR they'll give me a good look since I wouldn't have to go through the extensive training new people do and i was a pretty solid performer back in the day. Another former colleague told me a while ago that he thought they'd want me back when I was ready but of course that person has moved on recently.

If you have that former employee's email/contact, I would also send them an email saying you know they moved on but you're interested in coming back and seeing if they would be willing to recommend you to other people still at the firm. Or if they have any other suggestions. It sounds like he liked you and might be helpful.

Good luck, OP!