Anonymous
09/20/2011 13:09
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
I'm a SAHM who recently returned to work PT after 3 years staying home with my kids. I went back to my old company to find out if they had any opportunities and they were excited to match me with their needs.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 12:49
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
9:37 , 10:02, 11:51 -- thanks for the insights and more positive outlook. I don't want to get tangled in the more negative stuff posted because I have enough on my plate!
I have definitely kept up a volunteer position outside of kids' school (though do that too), and done other things in our community (education related) over the years.
I had someone reach out when I asked, who is in the same field with similar advice (volunteer / do temp projects if possible, to prove your skills and then be in the running if-when something more solid becomes available).
He was a man with a wife at home full time with 3 young kids -- I found that heartening and refreshing. So easy to assume everyone already established is stony faced and unhelpful but often they're out there if you choose to look for it.
I have definitely kept up a volunteer position outside of kids' school (though do that too), and done other things in our community (education related) over the years.
I had someone reach out when I asked, who is in the same field with similar advice (volunteer / do temp projects if possible, to prove your skills and then be in the running if-when something more solid becomes available).
He was a man with a wife at home full time with 3 young kids -- I found that heartening and refreshing. So easy to assume everyone already established is stony faced and unhelpful but often they're out there if you choose to look for it.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 12:25
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Exactly what is my "outlook" (I'm a SAHM)? And to the PP, what is your "outlook" that is so different?
Serious generalizing and stereotyping going on.
Serious generalizing and stereotyping going on.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 12:05
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Anonymous wrote:Anonymous wrote:I'm a WOHM who doesn't think a SAHM is a good choice for my workplace. I admit it. Our outlooks are just too different.
And your job is what? And it requires your colleagues to have your same "outlook"?
I've been home for one year and, in that time, have directed over $1.8 million in business to my husband's law firm. And taken care of two kids. And my dad. And have had two previous employers ask me to come back whenever I'm ready. I think my "outlook" is just fine.
I bet the first poster is one of those people you look at and wonder why they bothered having children. Not to mention sound like a miserable place to work.
I'm the 160K/yr poster and am thrilled to have found opportunities that pay well and allow for a wonderful work like balance. I'm also happy to have stayed home for 2 wonderful years and then have a soft entry back into work via PT employment. However, I'm an optimistic person and don't predict gloom and doom, so I think when you have an attitude like that good things come your way.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:55
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
11:53, I like you. 
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:53
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Anonymous wrote:I'm a WOHM who doesn't think a SAHM is a good choice for my workplace. I admit it. Our outlooks are just too different.
And your job is what? And it requires your colleagues to have your same "outlook"?
I've been home for one year and, in that time, have directed over $1.8 million in business to my husband's law firm. And taken care of two kids. And my dad. And have had two previous employers ask me to come back whenever I'm ready. I think my "outlook" is just fine.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:51
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
I would advise focusing your resume on volunteer activities outside the school. PTA's and school volunteeri positions have a reputation for being mommy social outings. It may hurt more than it helps.
I agree. I'm a WOHM who also volunteers for our local Mom's Club and it is not something that I would put on my resume. You may instead look into maybe building a side business (selling crafts/products on Etsy etc.) and that would look a whole lot better on your professional resume than Mom's Club or PTA activities.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:50
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Anonymous wrote:It takes 12 seconds to join LinkedIn. Why would someone considering a job hunt not be on it? What's the downside? It shows that you may be out of touch--the one thing you're trying to avoid.
Is LinkedIn really important? I have never given it much thought or respect. Am I missing something by not being a memeber, or is all this LinkedIn cheerleading from recruiters and HR managers? Does it really show something about my skill set becasue I know how to copy and paste my resume online?
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:49
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
I still don't understand people not understanding the basic concept of outdated skills, able to work long hours if needed. Maybe because I'm thinking about someone 5 years out of the workplace. In 5 years, in my field, many things will have changed, but the job will not have gotten less demanding. Most people in my field work long hours and occasionally need to come in on weekends. I have no problem hiring someone 5 years out if they are willing to put the effort into retraining and can be flexible when needed.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:44
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
I'm a WOHM who doesn't think a SAHM is a good choice for my workplace. I admit it. Our outlooks are just too different.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:42
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Well, my own experience was not quite as rosy as the one from the 45K-160K-in-no time poster and I did encounter quite a few female hiring managers that questioned my choice of being a SAHM (even if it was just for one year) and maybe that is why my posts sound pessimistic. I apologize and I do not want to discourage any SAHM's who are trying to find a job in this difficult economy. I was able to find a great PT job and it took about six months and the hiring manager was male. 
I think the PP 11:28 put it right, you really don't want to work for someone who is judgmental of your choices and in hindsight, I'm so glad that some of those jobs did not work out for me because I think that I found the right place for me (for now).
I think the PP 11:28 put it right, you really don't want to work for someone who is judgmental of your choices and in hindsight, I'm so glad that some of those jobs did not work out for me because I think that I found the right place for me (for now).
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:38
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Volunteer at school/church/not-for-profit to spearhead a PR campaign, i.e., offer to do PR for the school play or a charity 10K race. This "project" can be something fresh/recent for your resume and that you can discuss during interviews...Seek part-time freelance work to similarly build your resume and network...learn as much as you can about social media/how technology has changed your field...
I would advise focusing your resume on volunteer activities outside the school. PTA's and school volunteeri positions have a reputation for being mommy social outings. It may hurt more than it helps.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:28
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Anonymous wrote:Whenever I read these types of threads, I always get the feeling that there are some WOHMs who just relish the thought of SAHMs having trouble re-entering the workforce, as if now these spoiled b#tches are getting their due.
No matter that they stayed home because it was not financially feasible to work, or had a disabled or ill-child, or some other reason, these types of WOHMs seem to view all SAHMs as pampered mothers of "little snowflakes" who are obsessed with "bonding" and now that they want to re-enter the workforce, hahahahahaha on you! We WILL not hire you!
OP-- life is flexible if you are. You will find work -- the tip to volunteer to have a recent "project" on your resume is an excellent one. Networking through church and friends is a fantastic way to get a job. These people know you and trust you and will be more likely to either take a chance or recommend you to someone.
SOME SOME SOME, not ALL.
I just hired a 5yr SAHM and I'll have to admit I was partial to her before she even interviewed (I know, EEOC violation). Some of us are HAPPY to help another mom out, but maybe just those of us secure and happy in our choices; unfortunatly I feel there are a lot of moms on both sides that are bitter about or question their choices. Trust me ladies, you don't want to work for people like that.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 11:22
Subject: SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Whenever I read these types of threads, I always get the feeling that there are some WOHMs who just relish the thought of SAHMs having trouble re-entering the workforce, as if now these spoiled b#tches are getting their due.
No matter that they stayed home because it was not financially feasible to work, or had a disabled or ill-child, or some other reason, these types of WOHMs seem to view all SAHMs as pampered mothers of "little snowflakes" who are obsessed with "bonding" and now that they want to re-enter the workforce, hahahahahaha on you! We WILL not hire you!
OP-- life is flexible if you are. You will find work -- the tip to volunteer to have a recent "project" on your resume is an excellent one. Networking through church and friends is a fantastic way to get a job. These people know you and trust you and will be more likely to either take a chance or recommend you to someone.
No matter that they stayed home because it was not financially feasible to work, or had a disabled or ill-child, or some other reason, these types of WOHMs seem to view all SAHMs as pampered mothers of "little snowflakes" who are obsessed with "bonding" and now that they want to re-enter the workforce, hahahahahaha on you! We WILL not hire you!
OP-- life is flexible if you are. You will find work -- the tip to volunteer to have a recent "project" on your resume is an excellent one. Networking through church and friends is a fantastic way to get a job. These people know you and trust you and will be more likely to either take a chance or recommend you to someone.
Anonymous
09/20/2011 10:43
Subject: Re:SAHM re-entry into the workforce
Anonymous wrote:quote]
Boy, you aren't into female bonding. But, if we just say this is reality, without making change, then what will become of our daughters?
If I had my choice, I would live in Norway, Denmark or Sweden, but this is the United States of America and this is reality here and 'making changes' will never happen here as we have already seen. I predict things will get even worse in the next 20 years for women in this country whether they are working or not.
NOT my reality, lady.
I jumped back in after being out for 2 years. Sure, I took a lower paying job at around 45K for PT work, but am now Full Time and about to hit 160K this year. I ooze confidence and competence. On top of that I only have 2 years of college behind me and manage to do it ALL in a 40 hr work week. I feel sorry for your pessimistic attitude and grim outlook on creating family/work life balance.
To the OP and other SAHMs, don't let these Negative Nancy posters bring you down. You CAN jump back in and you CAN be a wild success in this difficult economy. Keep your head up and own your intelligence and what you have to offer.