Latest news with #workingmoms
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
6 Tips For Moms Returning To Work After A Career Break
Returning to corporate work after a career break to raise children is a major life pivot. Whether you've been home for one year, five or more than a decade, the transition back into the workforce comes with both challenges and opportunities. According to a FlexJobs survey, 70 percent of women who off-ramped their careers after having kids said it was difficult to reenter the workforce. For professional moms, the stakes can feel high—navigating expectations, explaining resume gaps and adjusting to changes in workplace culture and technology. Before updating your resume or applying to jobs, take stock of your current skills. What software are you comfortable using? What industry knowledge do you still have, and what needs refreshing? You'll also want to reflect on the transferable skills you've developed while managing a household or raising kids: time management, conflict resolution, multitasking, project coordination, budgeting—these are all assets in the workplace. If you've been away for just a year, your skills are likely still current. Focus on highlighting relevant experience and demonstrating continued interest in your field. For breaks of five years or more, consider identifying skill gaps and creating a plan to address them through self-directed learning or short-term courses. Free or low-cost platforms like Coursera, Udemy or LinkedIn Learning offer targeted refreshers in everything from Excel and Salesforce to data analytics and digital marketing. Even reading industry blogs or listening to sector-specific podcasts can help you re-enter the conversation with confidence. Networking is often the biggest hurdle after a long break, but it's also a valuable tool for re-entering the workforce. Reach out to former colleagues, managers or industry peers—even if it feels awkward at first. Let them know you're planning your return and ask for a short call or coffee to catch up. Don't be limited in what communities you consider, either. School groups, local business associations and alumni networks can offer surprising connections and warm introductions. As a former HR leader at Google and Grammarly, Claire Campion shared during an email interview that she has supported many moms returning to the corporate world after extended career breaks or maternity leave. 'Start by researching how your industry has changed during your time away. Talk to friends or former colleagues to get a real sense of what working life is like now, including the pace, expectations and economic landscape. In fast-moving industries like tech, a lot can shift in five years. From there, reflect on whether you want to return to your exact former role or explore an adjacent one that better suits your interests at this stage.' The way you talk about your time away matters. Whether you took a year out of the workplace for parental leave or a decade to raise a family, be honest—but frame it with confidence and clarity. Instead of apologizing for the gap, briefly explain the decision and pivot to the strengths you gained. Campion advises, 'Be honest and direct. You took time away from your career to raise your family and now that your children are older, you're ready to return to the workforce full-time. Reinforce what you bring to the table, your experience, skillset and readiness to hit the ground running. In 2025, power skills like communication, emotional intelligence and stakeholder management are just as important as technical ones, especially for more senior roles.' Rehearse your explanation in advance, so it comes across naturally in interviews and networking conversations. One example: "I stepped away from my career to raise my family, which gave me the opportunity to develop strong project management, communication and negotiation skills. I'm excited to bring that perspective back into a team setting, especially now that I've updated my skills and am ready for the next chapter." Returning to work can stir up a lot of emotion; guilt, anxiety and imposter syndrome are common companions in this journey. At ten years or more, the doubts can feel overwhelming. Know that these feelings are valid, but not necessarily accurate. You're not the same person who left the workforce, you're more experienced, more adaptable and you've been managing one of the most complex jobs there is. Find a mentor or support group of other moms who've gone through similar transitions. Talking openly about these challenges can help normalize them and build your confidence. Campion confirms that the biggest emotional roadblocks she has seen are self-doubt, loss of confidence and anxiety about re-entering a fast-paced workplace. 'Many wrestle with impostor syndrome or uncertainty about what role to return to. And then there's the very real Mom Guilt, feeling like you're not doing enough at home or at work. These emotions are common, but they're not permanent and they can be worked through with the right support.' Jackie Hershfeld, who returned to the corporate world in 2022 after ten years staying home with her three children, shared her advice for return-to-work moms in an email. 'Accept that you're going to feel like you're failing in at least one area of your life, be willing to recognize you're not and celebrate that you're doing this amazing, hard thing. Yes, you might have to meet your family at your kid's art show rather than drive all together, or maybe your laundry doesn't get folded as quickly or you have to order carry out because you're just too tired to cook and deal with dishes, but you're also taking care and loving on your family while bringing in an income. And yes, all of these examples are real examples from just this week.' Returnships—structured programs designed to help professionals re-enter the workforce after a break—are becoming more common at large companies like Amazon, Goldman Sachs and IBM. These paid programs offer training, mentorship and the chance to prove yourself with no long-term commitment upfront. Even if a company doesn't offer a formal returnship, look for job descriptions labeled 'mid-career entry,' 'career relaunch' or 'second act.' Even with jobs geared towards returning parents, don't expect it will still be easy. Hershfeld recalls, 'Job hunting whatever stage of life you're in is humbling. You're going to get rejected. You're going to think a role is an amazing fit and then it's not. You have to decide that every rejection is a redirection.' You may not land your dream job on day one. That's okay. Focus on positioning yourself for long-term success. Be strategic about the roles you apply to—look for companies with strong parental leave policies, hybrid or flexible work options and a culture that values inclusion. When Hershfeld's situation was no longer a fit at the first company she joined post-career break, she made a change. She explains, 'I have a son with dyslexia who is supported by an incredible school, I need the flexibility to be primarily remote when my husband is traveling to get him to and from school and the ability to work some non traditional hours. I made the choice to change companies to support that need.' Stay open to unexpected opportunities. A contract job, part-time role or freelance project can be a stepping stone that gets you in the door and lets you rebuild your professional muscle. Campion shares, 'Re-entering the workforce takes resilience and patience for everyone, not just moms. Be kind to yourself. You do have valuable skills and experience, it may take time to find the right fit.' Your technical and professional skills are still fresh. You'll want to focus on confidence-building and updating your resume with any relevant volunteer or short-term projects. Reassure employers that you're ready to commit and that you've kept a finger on the pulse of your industry. This is a common milestone when many moms consider returning. You may need to refresh some tools or software, but you still have a strong foundation. Consider a skills course or networking group to ease the transition and show proactive preparation. A longer break doesn't disqualify you—but it does require more intention. In many cases, employers will care about how you've spent that time. Volunteer roles, community leadership, continued education or freelance work can all serve as bridges back to your profession. Demonstrate readiness, not regret.
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
22-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Is Work-Life Balance A Total Myth?
Communications strategist and storyteller Aida Al Busaidy wonders if it is possible to truly have a work-life balance Just the other day, Shonda Rhimes popped up on my Explore feed on Instagram. The American television producer and mother-of-two was giving a speech on how working mums always have to put on a balancing act. When asked how she manages to do it all, she responded: 'Whenever you see me succeeding in one area of my life, just know that another one is failing.' This struck a chord with me. Honestly, she couldn't have replied to that question any better. We can try to be do-it-all kind of people, but it comes at a cost. There's a trade-off that we, as mums who also have careers, make daily. Her statement resonates with us all, because it is based on choices that we have made—and can make—to work, grow and contribute. During a recent Bazaar Arabia event at Dubai's Marsa Boulevard, a similar question was posed to me, but in terms of the career choice I had made. The honour of serving my country by working in government means I am able to give back to my nation and the leaders who fight day and night to make the UAE a great place to live, work and visit. Additionally, my exposure to new things, places and people—par of the course given my role—means my children get major bragging rights when they get to hang out with their favourite celebrities, try out just-opened spots in the city or be the first to tick off new experiences. We also have a lot to talk about after a long day at work and school. The beautiful thing about having a focus outside the home is the satisfaction of being connected and integral to other processes. You utilise skills learned during that four-year university degree you worked hard to get. The independence—both financial and creative—is immense. My realisation? Independent women raise independent children. So how do I do it? I'm stricter—and better—with time management. I focus on the quality of time spent with my kids rather than the quantity. But the truth is that yes, I have missed football matches, forgotten to register for a school trip, or been 15 minutes late in picking them up. I have given them more screen time that I would like because I had early morning meetings or late-night calls, or was at an event that dragged on. I have been on guilt trips—often initiated by others who really have no business in getting involved but amplify my self doubt. Still, I am grateful for the good, the bad and the inconsequential because it makes me human. It also helps my children understand that in every area—home or work—my best on that day is already at 100 per cent, even if I haven't ticked off every task or made it on time to every appointment. When it matters and where it counts, I am there.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
2 Moms with Multiple Jobs Break Down How They Juggle Work, Kids and a Tiny Bit of Self-Care (Exclusive)
Two moms share how they balance multiple jobs and family life. They both rely on strong partnerships, careful scheduling, and small moments of self-care to stay grounded. Despite exhaustion and long hours, they remain focused on building a better future for their hardworking parents, balancing work, children, school, and time for themselves is a daily feat — one that requires grit, sacrifice, and a deep well of love. For Cindy Dionicio, a 25-year-old mother of one from Delaware, days often start before sunrise. She's not just working to get by, but to fulfill her dream of buying a home. Dionicio balances two jobs while also running her own cleaning business. Her schedule is intense, but her motivation keeps her going strong. 'When I am scheduled to work at Dunkin, it's a 4 to 7 a.m. shift,' she tells PEOPLE exclusively. 'Then I head to my 8 to 5 at the dental office as a receptionist. Thursdays are my long days because I work for my cleaning business as well.' She started her cleaning business in 2023, inspired by her aunt and a love of independence. 'That was one of my very first jobs since I was 15,' Dionicio shares. 'I love to clean and I like being independent.' Her husband plays a critical role in keeping the household balanced. 'My husband is very supportive and we both work together to manage our times and be there for our son,' she reveals. He takes over when she's working late, making dinner, helping with homework, and ensuring their son's routine stays on track. Tuesdays and weekends are Dionicio's rest days — time for errands, family, and a moment to breathe. 'By Fridays, I am tired,' she admits. 'I usually sleep in on the weekends and get enough rest. I try my best to be calm and not stress about anything.' When asked about what helps her unwind during the madness, Dionicio's answer is simple and relatable: 'Taking a hot shower or a bath – that's the time I use to rest and relax!' Despite the pressure, Dionicio sees the bigger picture. 'I see myself at a different path in the future,' she says. 'I'm working hard right now to one day just have one job or do social media full time and be a SAHM. I also plan on continuing my cleaning business.' Then there's Ashley Jones, a 36-year-old Pennsylvania high school teacher and part-time server with seven children — including three stepchildren she and her husband have full custody of. 'For me, a typical day is honestly nonstop,' Jones tells PEOPLE exclusively. Her day begins with a 6:30 a.m. departure for her hour-long commute to her teaching job. 'My husband and I work opposite schedules, so he is coming as I am going. I am helping get the kids situated for school, then he takes over.' After a full day of teaching, it's another hour home and straight into the evening rush — homework, chores, and kids' activities. Her husband handles most of the cooking, and together they tag-team parenting duties. 'Our kids are all very active…from dance, to karate, soccer, track, baseball, etc.' Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Jones has been serving since she was 18 and picked it back up when her husband left restaurant management in 2021. 'We needed the additional income, especially with a large family,' she explains. Now, she teaches Monday through Friday and serves Friday and Saturday nights, with the option to pick up extra shifts during school breaks. Critics online have questioned her ability to be present for her children, but Jones is clear: 'I spend a lot of time with my kids. I only do 17-hour days on Fridays. That being said, my children are all in school full time. So, while I am teaching, they are getting an education.' They also have family support nearby. Jones' mom and her husband's parents help out when needed. Still, the fast pace can take a toll. 'I was really burnt out for the period where I was working 7 straight days,' she says. 'It started to affect my physical health… so I cut Sundays out of my serving schedule.' Now, Sundays are sacred. 'I use that day to catch up on household chores, hang out with my family, and do things that make me happy — like my weekly Aldi runs and staying in pajamas until noon.' Related: Mom Handed Out Bracelets at Eras Tour in Memory of Daughter. Now, She's Sharing the Heartbreaking Reason Why (Exclusive) Despite the chaos, she's found small ways to recharge. 'Honestly, my commute is my alone time. I really use that time to decompress before I get home after a long day.' Every three weeks, she carves out time for a manicure, and she and her husband try to sneak in date nights. She also loves to read. 'Reading pulls me out of my own world and allows me to escape and relax,' she reveals. 'Shout out to Emily Henry!' And though it's demanding, Jones sees no immediate end to working multiple jobs. 'As long as working two jobs keeps a roof over their heads, food in their bellies, and the ability for them to participate in all the activities they want, this will be my life,' she says. From Dionicio's early-morning shifts and entrepreneurial hustle, to Jones's 17-hour Fridays and marathon weeks of teaching and serving, both moms show that whether you have one child or seven, being a working parent is a full-time job — and then some. But for both women, the sacrifices are rooted in love, partnership, and a shared goal: building a better future for their families. Read the original article on People
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
New study finds Oklahoma is one of the worst states for working moms. See why
It's almost Mother's Day, a day many American moms look forward to as the day they receive gifts, thanks for all they do and hopefully some rest. Motherhood is a difficult job, no matter which way you slice it. While some families choose to live on a single income so the mom, or in some cases, the father, can be home with the kids. But in many others both the father and mother are earning money either part-time or full-time. Some even work two jobs. This doesn't eliminate the pressures of motherhood, however. Women are often still expected to carry the "mental load" of their families, and many of the household duties, despite working a full-time job. And don't forget about the constantly rising cost of child care. A 2023 report from the Pew Research Center found in marriages where the husband and wife earn roughly the same amount of money, the wife still spends an average of 4.5 hours more on caregiving and housework than the husband. In those marriages, the husband spends an average of 3.5 more hours on leisure than the wife. In addition, many women get little-to-no paid parental leave after the birth or adoption of their child. In short, there is a heavy burden on American working mothers, and Oklahoma is no exception. Oklahoma is actually one of the worst states for working moms, according to a study by WalletHub, which ranked states based on 17 metrics corresponding to child care, professional opportunities and work-life balance. Here's what the study found. Source: WalletHub Oklahoma ranked poorly in all three categories, and landed at 42 on the list as a whole. The state ranked 39th for child care, a category which looked at daycare quality, child-care costs, pediatricians per capita, school-system quality, share of nationally accredited child care centers and number of childcare workers per total number of children. In professional opportunities for women, Oklahoma ranked 42nd. The category included metrics like the gender pay gap, ratio of female executives to male executives median women's salary. Lastly, in work-life balance, the state ranked 39th, including metrics like parental leave, average length of a woman's work week and women's average commute time. Overall Rank State Total Score Child Care Rank Professional Opportunities Rank Work-Life Balance Rank 1 Massachusetts 72.37 1 6 1 2 Connecticut 66.29 3 4 6 3 Rhode Island 63.82 7 19 2 4 District of Columbia 63.58 4 2 7 5 Maine 62.31 2 9 13 6 Minnesota 58.03 6 7 16 7 Vermont 57.86 18 5 9 8 Wisconsin 56.38 14 16 10 9 New Jersey 56.26 13 34 8 10 New York 54.41 10 37 11 11 Maryland 53.24 12 1 44 12 Delaware 52.93 15 3 41 13 Illinois 52.86 5 24 25 14 North Dakota 52.08 11 30 19 15 New Hampshire 51.48 9 21 34 16 Washington 51.38 32 39 3 17 Oregon 51.34 40 10 4 18 Nebraska 51.27 16 17 26 19 Indiana 50.69 8 35 29 20 Kentucky 48.53 20 11 36 21 South Dakota 48.11 17 36 24 22 Pennsylvania 47.93 22 12 33 23 Colorado 47.41 24 14 27 24 Tennessee 45.69 19 26 49 25 California 45.64 45 25 5 26 Kansas 45.45 30 23 20 27 Utah 45.39 27 48 12 28 Hawaii 45.07 25 44 15 29 Montana 44.95 35 32 14 30 Ohio 44.75 28 22 22 31 Virginia 44.47 21 28 42 32 Iowa 44.39 29 31 21 33 Wyoming 44.18 23 50 18 34 Florida 43.29 26 15 46 35 Michigan 42.61 33 20 30 36 Missouri 40.90 37 18 40 37 Georgia 40.77 34 8 51 38 Alaska 40.71 38 40 23 39 North Carolina 39.66 42 13 38 40 Arkansas 39.38 36 41 28 41 Texas 38.98 31 33 48 42 Oklahoma 37.62 39 42 39 43 Idaho 37.28 46 45 17 44 West Virginia 35.92 41 46 35 45 Arizona 35.64 47 27 32 46 South Carolina 34.48 44 38 43 47 New Mexico 32.70 48 43 31 48 Mississippi 32.00 43 47 50 49 Nevada 31.70 50 29 47 50 Alabama 28.80 49 49 45 51 Louisiana 25.35 51 51 37 This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma is one of the worst states for working moms, new study finds
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Working moms say motherhood derailed their careers
This story was originally published on HR Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily HR Dive newsletter. In a survey of nearly 1,000 working moms, 87% said they've missed promotions or other opportunities due to becoming a parent, Zety's Motherhood & Work Impact Report revealed. Likewise, 90% said they adjusted their career trajectory due to parenthood. Working moms also face bias in the hiring process and stigma about motherhood, the report found; of those surveyed, 89% said they were asked about their parental status during either an interview or a review. A majority also said they thought their pregnancy was considered an inconvenience at work and that they needed to work harder than those without children to prove themselves. The survey results indicate that the adage 'you can't have it all' remains a reality for many working moms, who say they have had to 'mak[e] major career sacrifices just to stay afloat in a system that still penalizes parenting,' according to the report. 'Before motherhood even begins, women are bombarded with unsolicited advice and career warnings when it comes to starting families, signaling that parenthood and professional success are still seen as incompatible,' the report said. More than 3 in 4 working moms said they were explicitly told to put off having kids until they were more established in their career, and 82% said they were told that becoming a parent would hurt their career, the survey found. To that end, 77% of those surveyed said they were afraid to share news of their pregnancy with their boss or co-workers over fears about job security and negative reactions; only 58% said they felt supported by their employer after sharing their pregnancy news. The survey also revealed the stress on working mothers to be seen as available. Eighty-one percent of respondents said they were asked to cut their maternity leave short — or otherwise alter it — to benefit their employer, and 91% said they think women without children are seen as more committed and thus have an advantage at work. Beyond career setbacks, discrimination complaints are filed regularly by working mothers who are allegedly denied time or space to pump breastmilk at work, in violation of the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act. In one case, a former Chipotle employee was allegedly told by a manager that the company's refusal to schedule her was partially tied to the better availability of employees who didn't need accommodations to pump or to store milk. 'It limits you even more,' the manager allegedly told the plaintiff. The majority of women said they feel like mothers are 'forgotten once the baby arrives,' according to a 2024 report by The Harris Poll on U.S. maternal health. Many reported barriers to accessing needed healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth, with the top barrier being inability to take time off work or find childcare to be able to attend appointments. At the same time, when women are able to access and use health benefits, their attendance, retention and productivity at work can be positively affected, according to a November Integrated Benefit Institute report. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
