Returning to work/resumes

**Michelle** · 07-16-2005, 11:31 AM

As some of you know, I am considering returning to work after being a SAHM for 5 yrs now.

I need to update my resume badly. Has anyone returned to work after a long absence? Any tips for me?

And others who have a resume handy, would you mind sharing it with me? I am lost as to what resumes should look like these days. I know there are a lot of online resources for these sorts of things, but I'm hoping for some help from friends as well.

TIA!

**forestdale** · 07-16-2005, 03:53 PM

Michelle, I think the style of resume would depend on the type of job you're going for but it needs to be well organised, short and to the point.

If you're doing office work, emphasise the fact that you've worked a lot on your computer while a SAHM and you've kept up to date on all your computer packages. Emphasise all the skills it takes to be a good mum and homekeeper - organisational skills, budgeting and cost control, flexibility, enthusiasm etc.

Being someone who has hired people in the past, I always looked for maturity, eagerness and willingnesss to learn new skills so maybe you can emphasise these qualities.

I don't have a resume but I can show you the letter of application and resume I wrote for my son recently when he got his job in Canada. If you want to see them, let me know where to send them to.

Good luck with the job search.

**Missy** · 07-16-2005, 05:32 PM

There's a book called "Resumes that Knock 'em Dead" that might help you out. It is full of sample resumes and wording ideas. Could probably find it at the Library.

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/159337108X/qid=1121548804/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-3256973-2370332?v=glance&s=books&n=507846"]Amazon.com: Resumes That Knock 'em Dead (9781593371081): Martin Yate: Books[/ame]

**Michelle** · 07-16-2005, 05:55 PM

Thanks Rhonda and Missy.

I'd love to see it Rhonda, thank you. My email addy is msack3889 at yahoo dot com

**forestdale** · 07-16-2005, 06:14 PM

check your email, Michelle.

**Michelle** · 07-16-2005, 06:20 PM

Thank you Rhonda

!

**Jerseygirl** · 07-17-2005, 08:41 PM

When I'm looking for new staff I'm not terribly concerned about the style of resume, the one they taught us in HS typing class is fine. I look for reasonable length (try to keep it to one page), no typos, spelling issues etc. I also come across the problem really often that people provide the name of people as personal references that I am unable to actually reach at the number provided. I think what you put on your resume depends on the position you are looking for. The resume might get your foot in the door, but your interview is so important. If you are looking for a particular position in a particular company try to find out something about the company and use it to your advantage. Know the buzz words of the industry, in human services we use terms like "Person centered" "Habilitative" and expect applicants to want to tour our facility, meet clients, touch, etc. This may be the opposite of what another industry expects. Know your audience and play into that. Good Luck! ----Kellie