The economy isn’t making it easy for anyone to move into the workforce, let alone stay-at-home moms. Last month marked the first time in a year that the U.S. economy failed to add any jobs at all and the official unemployment rate remains at a high 9.1%. That already high percentage jumps to 16.2% if you count the people that simply stopped looking for work.
As more and more people worry about their financial future, more and more stay-at-home moms are considering going back to work. But is it really a possibility in today’s economy? Let’s face it, it’s hard enough to keep the job you have let alone find a new one. Fewer employers are hiring and those that are may not even consider anyone that might need to relocate.
Returning to the workforce, especially after a voluntary absence like so many stay-at-home moms choose to do, can be a challenge. One way this transition can be a little easier is to help out with the family business, if there is one. Moms can move into office administration duties to build their resumes after a long absence. Entrepreneurial skills are always appreciated.
Making it easy for the company to test you out is also a good way to get a foot in the door. A good way to do this is to offer to consult on specific projects for a given company, so they can get a feel for how you work. This way, the company doesn’t have to commit to hiring you and you can move into the business a little easier.
Jon Huser