Have I lost my mind?

[jenn0911]

I have been a SAHM for 5 years now. I have recently begun a job search because my oldest will be going to Kindergaten in the fall and my baby...not a baby anymore...is ready for some interaction with other kids. (Preschool/daycare) But here's the problem...apparently, being a mom is not attractive to employers. They seem to think I cannot function in the real world because I have been "out of the loop" for a few years. The thing that kills me is that I am applying for office work (receptionist,secretary,etc) and someone told me I needed to sharpen my skills before I get back in to working. Like I don't remember how to answer a phone, take a message, or use the computer!!! :mad: Oh well, the search goes on!

[Zelda Von Yitz]

Office technology has changed. It wouldn't be a bad idea to take a couple of classes.

[miel]

That is REALLY unfair. And stupid! The only thing I can suggest is taking a class that will also show that you have been sharpening and improving your skills. And perhaps volunteering to do something that requires the same skills you want to show you have.

Also--a temp agency might pick you up even if you have been a SAHM. I don't think they care. They just care that you can type (they give you a test). That could also lead to a better job.

So sorry people are such idiots. Good luck!

[boilermaker]

While I do believe that being a stay at home mom is a very important job, I can also understand the employer's point of view. Technology has changed quite a bit in the past 5 years and if they aren't computer savy people who are constantly online, they may really believe that you could be "rusty" :)

I personally would take a few online computer classes, just easy things that you can do at home while the kids are napping (or your DH is watching them). Also, have you had your resume looked at by a professional career advisor? There are so many SAHM responsibilities that can be translated to the office environment and maybe simply rewording things on your resume is all it would take.

Good luck in the job search!

[suzubeane]

Office technology HAS changed! I just got a new computer at work, and even though I'd been using an older version of Microsoft office suite, the brand new stuff has a different look and feel. It's nothing that you wouldn't pick up quickly if you were sitting in front of it every day, but the point is you haven't been. I agree with others that a course would show you're serious about being up-to-date - even if it's just a few hours long workshop.

Secondly, what employers aren't telling you is that they're afraid that a mother of young children will be out a lot. Kids in daycare get sick, and you take a day out. One needs to go to the doctor, and you're out again. I'm not saying that this will be true for you - just that this is what employers assume. And because it's illegal for them to question you about your childcare arrangements, it gives you no option to clarify. You might have an excellent support system, a husband who can stay home, and/or family members nearby who would ensure you work every hour in your schedule. But they don't know that, and sadly, they make assumptions.

[jenn0911]

My husband does have a schedule that will allow him to be home almost all the time I am working (as long as it is a regular day schedule.) How can I let employers know that if I can't get my foot in the door for an interview.

[villanelle75]

I woudl find a way to include it in a cover letter. SOmething along the lines of:

I am re-entering the work force now that my children are old enough to be in day care and school and my situation is stable enough to allow me to fully commit to my employer. With a husband who is able to care for our kids during the day when they may be sick or have appointments, I am able to once again work a full-time job and I am looking forward to the opporunity.

[jenn0911]

Wow, that's awesome. Thanks!