Returning to work after “time off” can be an extremely daunting challenge. Whether you took time off for childrearing, a leave of absence, health reasons, or educational endeavors, re-entering the workforce can bring with it both emotional and logistical barriers that must be overcome. Pesky, emotional questions may flood your mind like “who will hire me, what am I truly qualified to do,” and “where do I begin?” Logistically, you will likely need to assess your current skills, write a resume, build your network of contacts, purchase appropriate interviewing clothing, and brush up on your interviewing techniques. You will also want to consider your interests, work values, salary needs, and short and long term goals.

Lipstick Wisdom is dedicated to helping you with this challenge! We have scoured the web for the best information that we can find on re-entering the workforce. We know that with a recession upon us, many people are facing extremely difficult times. In fact, recent headlines note that more people are now unemployed than any time since 1994. Competition for good paying jobs is fierce, so we want to help you be as prepared as possible in your job search. Now is NOT the time to fly by the seat of your pants. You want a well organized, thought out approach to finding a job.

Here are seven key steps to prepare you for finding a job:

1) Determine your value in today’s marketplace.
Consider your strengths based on the activities you have managed and the lives you have touched since you last worked outside your home. In other words, heading the PTA, coaching your daughter’s soccer team, running the school’s annual auction, are all jobs that required some of the same types of skills that you will need in the workforce. Figure out how best to present these skills both on your resume and in an interview to communicate the VALUE that you will bring to an employer.
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