Return to work after long break

[shaz-rla]

I am trying to find work after taking a "career break" for 8 years moved from Scotland to England and to raise family, youngest starts school in September, I think I would like to go back into office, I have done numerous things with my time, registered childminder, secretary for school friends group, have now become a parent goverenor, how do I word CVs etc as I have effectively not been in an office for this time but have kept up my skills by learning how to use internet, e-mails etc..  also I couldn't give any professional references as I don't keep in touch with my old work colleagues, could I just do a covering letter? If I get as far as interview what on earth do you wear as I obviously don't have any business clothes left!  I hope someone can point me in the right direction. 

[Splashy]

Have you tried signing up with an employment agency?

They will give you tests and allocate jobs appropriate to your skills at present. I've got a few jobs this way - they often start temporary but turn into permanent. They also tend not to be too specialised.

As for clothes just get a smart shirt and trousers from a supermarket (cheap and nice i.e. Tesco/ ASDA)!

Good luck!

[acw]

Anything you've done that was office skills based but not paid is "work experience/voluntary work".  It counts for a lot""" :-)

In a covering letter explain that you took a career break to raise your children but that as you always intended going back to work you have made an effort to keep your skills up to date. 

Looking after kids must involve a lot of time management - that's a skill that's vital in any office! :-)

For interviews - if you're going to be working in an office from now on, may I suggest that you invest in a decent suit (i.e., from Next or Marks & Spencers upwards) but pair it with cheaper shirts/blouses if you're on a budget.  A cheap suit stands out a mile, but a decent suit and nice accessories (that can also be cheap!) can cover up cheap tops easily!!!  I'm not being funny - that's exactly what I do!!!!

In terms of references, you can get a character reference from someone on one of the committees perhaps, or a client for whom you did childminding.  Also - perhaps take Splashy's advice and do temping, and get a reference that way. 

Good luck! :-)

[shaz-rla]

Thanks splashy, I will have a look at the employment agenies, did phone in the past they insisted I had a cv even before I could get through the door, will try and get one typed up. acw thanks for the advice I will go and ask a few people if I can use them as references.  I will let you know how I get on soon.  Now to go and stretch the credit card on some new clothes ....

[acw]

If you want tips on your CV, I can tell you what my careers service told me last week! :-)

[nfn]

for references I would assume that the school head where you are a parent governor would be happy to offer a character witness. Maybe a parent of one of your former childminding charges would be happy to offer a professional one. What about someone from the school friends group. It sounds to me like you have shown immense initiative by combining an extremely demanding full time job (mum) and maintaining outside interests. Good luck, any employer should be proud to have you on their payroll.

[shaz-rla]

Yes please acw, thank you nfn, sent my cv today and did use chair of governors and one of my childminding clients as reference.  It does sound like I have worked hard over the past so many years (mostly taken in my stride?!) and I hope I get an interview, I'll let the world know if I do!

[Solarjunkie]

Does your local college offer a Returners course?

There are many women who take years off work & often lose their confidence and their knowledge of things like what to wear - these courses can help polish up their skills, give adivse about the local job market, CV writing and many other things.

They're usually free, too!

[shaz-rla]

Thanks solarjunkie, never gave it a thought, I will go and look them up.

[nfn]

Shaz-ria, never mind telling the world that you've got the job, tell us first please. Very very very good luck

[shaz-rla]

AB will be the first to know!!!  Thanks nfn for your goodwishes!  Shaz