Returning to work after long career break

[Solenzara]

Hi! Looking for info and help. I left work in 2001 because my husband's job took him overseas and as job opportunities were limited there I made and sold jewellery for that time. I'm now in the UK and keen to get back to work to help the household finances and to be social as staying at home making jewellery can get a bit lonely. I've revamped my CV highlighting all the things I did in work, and have done since with PTA's and other committees and my jewellery. However, I'm hitting a brick wall getting interviews. I get some for admin jobs then get told "Oh, you are too overqualified" or "we chose the other candidate who is in work", when I try the low management roles similar to those I did before leaving the traditional work place I don't get past the sift. What have others done to get over the employer's belief that you have clearly forgotten everything you have done and learnt before and after leaving full time employment and therefore your skills are worthless?

[mselastic]

The job market is so competitive now. I meet the criteria for jobs and agencies say I lack experience compared to other candidates!

Can you volunteer?

[statetrooperstacey]

If I were you I would apply for anything and everything rather than just the jobs you would like. Purely because I think it's easier to get a job if you already have a job.
Especially as you have a very large gap in paid employment.
So that 16 hours in subway, that 12 hours in wilkos, that weekend shift in a warehouse, McDonald's, basically all the jobs that are awkward and antisocial hours!
Get your foot on the ladder.