NEW YORK (MainStreet) -- For many women, starting a family means taking a hiatus from the working world to focus on motherhood. According to the Pew Research Center, 29% of American mothers about 10.4 million women did not work outside the home in 2012. While some moms opt to stay home permanently, those who eventually decide to re-enter the workforce can face unique challenges and uncertainties during their job search. With competition for jobs still fierce in our lackluster economy, moms often fear that gaps on their resume will discourage prospective employers from considering them.
Also See: How Most Men Get Mother's Day Wrong -- And How to Get It Right
The good news: "Being a stay-at-home mom is by no means a resume killer," says Kristin Kelley, chief marketing officer for recruiting firm Randstad North America. The key is to convince prospective employers that you've kept your skills sharp during your hiatus and you're now fully ready to get back to work.
Also See: Stay-at-Home Moms on the Rise To make the job-hunting process easier, we've asked career experts to offer their top tips for stay-at-home moms looking to restart a successful career. Here's what they had to say.
Let Go of Your Fears
The idea of returning to work can cause a fair share of anxiety for stay-at-home moms, especially those who have been home for a long period of time.
"Most women who have taken a hiatus from the paid workforce to raise their children fear that they are no longer current with their industry or with technology skills," says Eliza Shanley, managing partner for Women@Work Network, LLC, which offers career services for women. "This has a big impact on their confidence, and lack of confidence can greatly undermine a job search."
You can overcome self doubt by reviewing your resume and recognizing your many skills and accomplishments. "Internalize the fact that you are still that capable professional person and the workplace needs you," Shanley says.
Discuss the Career Skills You've Honed During Your Hiatus
Just because you've been away from the working world doesn't mean you haven't cultivated valuable career skills during your time as a stay-at-home mom. It's a good idea to fill any gaps on your resume with examples of meaningful volunteer and contract work you've completed, says Allison O'Kelly, CEO of Mom Corps.
"The chair of the silent auction committee for a school fundraiser uses business development and relationship management skills, and the volunteer coordinator for the library book fair uses management, scheduling and program management skills," says Shanley. "Don't give your volunteer work short shrift."
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