Job Interview Tips for Stay-at-Home Parents

Parenting and job searching aren’t exactly easy acts to juggle 🤹‍♀️ But you’ve already made it this far! Let me alleviate some of the stress by guiding you through the job searching process and helping you navigate the employment gap with ease. Ready? Let’s go 👇🏼👇🏼

Let's start by addressing concerns about the employment gap on your resume. Remember, being a stay-at-home parent is a full-time job in itself 1️⃣, and 2️⃣ it's important to recognize and highlight the valuable skills and experiences you've gained during this time. More on this later. 

As busy parents, finding time to prepare for job interviews can be a challenge, but it's crucial for interview success. Take advantage of nap times 💤, early mornings 🌅, or late nights 🌙 to research the company, review common interview questions, and practice your responses. By being well-prepared, you'll feel more confident and ready to tackle any question that comes your way. Oh and one more thing! Be sure to plan ahead to secure reliable childcare during your interview. This way you’ll have one less thing to worry about and can devote your full attention to the questions being asked. 

During the interview itself, you’ll want to show your enthusiasm and commitment to returning to the workforce. Highlight your passion for the industry or role you're applying for and express your eagerness to jump back into your career. Talk about any efforts you've made to stay up-to-date in your industry, such as attending workshops, taking online courses, or participating in relevant professional associations. Employers want to see that you're motivated and dedicated, so let your genuine excitement shine through 🌞

When discussing your time as a stay-at-home parent, focus on the valuable skills and experiences you've gained. Talk about your ability to handle multiple responsibilities ✍🏼, your strong organization and time management skills ⏰, and your adaptability in a fast-paced environment ⚡️ By framing your experiences in a professional context, you'll demonstrate your transferable skills and showcase your readiness to take on this new role.

“Erin, all of this is great and all, but how do I land an interview in the first place?!” 

Consider volunteering or participating in relevant community activities during your time as a stay-at-home parent 👧👦👶 Did you organize events for your child's school? Were you involved in any parent-teacher associations or local community organizations? These experiences can be included in your resume to further bridge the employment gap and demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and community involvement 🌱✨

Finally, remember to stay positive and persistent throughout the job search process. It's common to face rejection or encounter challenges along the way, but don't let them discourage you. Keep refining your resume, honing your interview skills, and networking within your industry. Each interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow, and the right opportunity will come your way.

If you found these insights helpful, I invite you to join my Career Workshop Intensive, a 4-part program designed to help you get a job you love ASAP. 🌈