13/03 - Category: Career & Work, Family

I have yet to hear a man ask for advice on how to combine marriage and a career -Gloria Steinem

The kids are back at school, and for some that might mean a return to paid work. Depending on how long you’ve been out of the workforce, it can be hard to know where to start. For example, returning to the job you had before children may not be appealing or practical. Faced with starting afresh, your confidence may be low and you may be unsure about what direction to take. But there are plenty of ways to on-ramp back into the workforce - it’s just a matter of taking it one step at a time.

Think about what you are good at and what you can do. If this is hard then ask a friend or partner to help you. Write it down. Ask yourself what you would like to do. If there is a discrepancy between what you can do and what you’d like to do then it might mean taking a course to bridge the gap.

Value the time you have spent at home. When compiling your resume don’t leave blank the years you’ve spent caring for children - non-paid work can easily be translated into work speak. For example, running the school canteen involves customer service, handling money and leading a team. Consider listing your charity and volunteer work in ways an employer can understand.

Target family friendly employers. Websites like www.eowa.gov.au recognize and value female workforces, while www.workplace.gov.au promotes businesses who offer flexibility in general. There are also recruitment firms that concentrate on part-time or flexible placements, like www.careermums.com.au, which specialises in roles for working parents and parents returning to work. Don’t be shy. If you are interested in a company and want to work there, pick up the phone and call them.

Network. A large part of doing business is about relationships. Sometimes opportunities can be right under your nose. Never underestimate the family and social network that is available to you.

Take care of yourself. Balancing work and family can be a challenge. Love, respect and responsibility are components of any partnership. Ensure that family duties are shared and you have an adequate support network in place so you are not stretched too thin.

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