Every year, numerous parents decide to return to the workforce after taking time off to raise children. Whether the time was for six weeks or 18 years, most parents who are going back to work find it difficult to overcome the gap in employment. The time between jobs can hurt your chances of re-entering the job market and many employers will admit that these breaks in employment history tend to push a candidate out of the running for an opening.

Almost all parents who have spent time at home versus working an outside job have activities that can and should be included on a resume when the time comes to return to work. Just because you did not receive paid compensation for your work doesn't make your experience less valuable. Treat volunteer activities the same as you would a paid position. Include things such as charity work, parent teacher associations, and fund raising efforts. Any leadership roles in such organizations will help to highlight skills and accomplishments related to the position you are applying for.

Did you work at home or were you self-employed during this time? Whether you worked full or part time, be sure to include self-employed or contract experience. This will show a potential employer that you are able to multitask and work with little or no supervision. Highlight important accomplishments or duties in your resume.

Did you take any online courses while you were a stay at home parent? By listing any continuing education, you are demonstrating that your skills are fresh and not outdated.

Are you a member of a professional organization or did you attend any seminars or conferences regarding the field you are applying for? Display your dedication to the field by including this information as well.

In order to avoid an immediate disqualification caused by your employment gap, use a combination resume. Chronological resumes may be easier to put together, but they do not stress the areas that are key for parents returning to the workforce after having a break in employment.

Include only those skills that apply to the specific position you are applying for. For instance, if you are going into the childcare or teaching field, it would make sense that you include more of the actual parental duties you performed than if you were going to work in a corporate setting.

Above all, be honest about why you have the gap in your employment. You can explain your absence in the cover letter, but don't go overboard. State why you were away and then accentuate how you have kept up to date with your skills. If you show a potential employer that you have taken the steps necessary to stay involved, you have a higher probability of landing the job.

Jennifer Anthony - Resume Writer and Consultant
Member: The National Resume Writers' Association (NRWA)

On the web: http://www.jennwrites.com

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