How to Create a Resume for a Stay-at-Home Mom

How to Create a Resume for a Stay-at-Home Mom Several weeks ago, I received a phone call from a stay-at-home mom. She was considering entering the workforce, after staying home for 18 years to care for her son. Fortunately, she was able to provide for him during that time, take him to practices, attend school functions, and volunteer whenever possible. Now, comes the difficult part. Jenny called me because she wanted to know how she should represent those 18 years of her life on her resume. Should she just start with her last paid position? Should she list stay-at-home mom, but not include many details? Or, should she turn to a functional resume and simply highlight her skills? As I talked to her, I realized that she was very concerned about how this would appear to a potential employer. I assured her that I could work her to find the best solution to her challenge. We went through several steps and I encouraged her throughout the process. It turns out that she was worried her skills weren’t transferable to today’s workplace. As a stay-at-home mom and a single parent, she had plenty of skills that are desired by many employers. During her period as a full-time parent that was not in the paid workforce, she balanced many priorities, scheduled events, organized household finances, communicated with school personnel and other parents, and managed the interior and exterior of her home. First, we organized her skills and provided a title for her position. Instead of listing her as a “domestic engineer” or some other fancy term, we said it like it was: Stay-at-Home Mom. Next, we listed what she had accomplished during that time frame. Rememberâ€"she had been in this position for 18 years; this was not going to be a one-line description. And, also remember that these skills need to be transferable. Using words like organize, budget, communication, oversee, manage, lead, and establish ensure we are using career-oriented verbiage. Finally, we included volunteerism. While Jenny was a stay-at-home mom, she had the opportunity to volunteer in several events through school and the community. This was pertinent information and was included on the document. So, if you or someone you know is trying to return to the workforce after being a stay-at-home parent, please remember to list this information. This is no longer a big secret or something that needs to be hidden. Consider your skills, accomplishments, and tasks during this time period and ensure they are represented on your resume. Don’t sell yourself short â€" staying home with children IS a job and should be represented on your resume. If you have additional questions, please contact me.