Office Hours How to Convey That Youre Not Irrelevant, Despite Taking Years Off of Work

Office Hours How to Convey That Youre Not Irrelevant, Despite Taking Years Off of Work Welcome to Office Hours. Were so glad you dropped by. This new column is an initiative of The Fine Line and Fairygodboss created to address the career questions of women 40 and older.The Fine Line is a lifestyle publication that provides cutting-edge guidance and practical resources for women who are redefining what it means to grow older.Each month, will answer a question from one of our readers. If you have a question about finding a job, starting a new career, or an issue in the workplace, please write us at hellothefinelinemag.com.QI took 20 years off to raise my kids, and now Im ready to get back into the workforce. Whats the best way to convey that I am not irrelevant?ASo you took some time off OK, two decades off to raise a family. Kudos to you Thats a tough job. Unfortunately, its not one you can put on The first, fruchtwein important thing you need to know is whyyoure getting back in th e workforce. Have a good reasonthough an income is a motivator, employers want to know that you truly want to work for reasons beyond a paycheck. The second most important thing is to be honest about your employment gap You raised a family, and you should be proud of that. Now youre looking to get back in the game, and youve got the commitment and drive employers are looking for.As for your experiences, yes, theyre dated. But think about what youve done in the last 20 years. Did you help friends with their small businesses? Did you volunteer consistently for a cause you are passionate about? Did you participate at your childs school? Youve surely done something in the last two decades that built skills that can be applicable in the workplace.There are also some simple steps you can take to jump back in. Assess your talents and apply to jobs that could use those skills. Take classes and go to seminars that can help you If you still fall short when thinking of experiences, consider tr ying a re-entry program. Some larger companies like PepsiCo and Fitch Ratings offer programs that help women who took time off get back to business. You might also consider temp and part-time work to get some recent experience for your resume before diving into a full-time job search.If you have a question about finding a job, starting a new career, or an issue in the workplace, please write us athellothefinelinemag.com.