ChatterBank0 min ago
Return to work after long break
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They will give you tests and allocate jobs appropriate to your skills at present. I've got a few jobs this way - they often start temporary but turn into permanent. They also tend not to be too specialised.
As for clothes just get a smart shirt and trousers from a supermarket (cheap and nice i.e. Tesco/ ASDA)!
Good luck!
Anything you've done that was office skills based but not paid is "work experience/voluntary work". It counts for a lot""" :-)
In a covering letter explain that you took a career break to raise your children but that as you always intended going back to work you have made an effort to keep your skills up to date.
Looking after kids must involve a lot of time management - that's a skill that's vital in any office! :-)
For interviews - if you're going to be working in an office from now on, may I suggest that you invest in a decent suit (i.e., from Next or Marks & Spencers upwards) but pair it with cheaper shirts/blouses if you're on a budget. A cheap suit stands out a mile, but a decent suit and nice accessories (that can also be cheap!) can cover up cheap tops easily!!! I'm not being funny - that's exactly what I do!!!!
In terms of references, you can get a character reference from someone on one of the committees perhaps, or a client for whom you did childminding. Also - perhaps take Splashy's advice and do temping, and get a reference that way.
Good luck! :-)
Does your local college offer a Returners course?
There are many women who take years off work & often lose their confidence and their knowledge of things like what to wear - these courses can help polish up their skills, give adivse about the local job market, CV writing and many other things.
They're usually free, too!