Can you still graft a career if you've been a sahm?

[AnnoyingMNads]

I've been a sahm for 4 years now. Child starts school in September and I'm going to feel so lost when she starts.

I never had a career to start with, just retail and a bit of university- dropped out when pregnant.

What do you put on tour CV if you've been at home and where do you start if you want to get on the career ladder after a break from the working world? Is it possible to be successful after children?

Depends what you want and expect. I was a SAHM for 5 years. I spent the last year volunteering 2 days/week to get an up to date reference and did a university course. I then applied for 2 jobs when my youngest started Year 1, I got the second job and its part time term time only so I can still pick up from school every day. And its doing something I think is important for a good employer. It doesn't pay very well so I'm sure in some people's eyes not 'successful', but is really ideal for what I want right now. Longer term there is opportunity for progression if I could commit to more hours, which I am prepared to do in the next 3-5 years.

It depends what you want to do. I was a SAHM for 7 years and last year got a job in a school as an LSA. Yes you've had a gap in your working life but think of all the new skills you've learnt as a parent. Also, you've had a break and are now enthusiastic about a new opportunity and ready for a new challenge! Good luck OP

I know lots of people who've made really good careers for themselves. Mostly they have volunteered in the area they wanted to work and then sort of created jobs for themselves. It requires a lot of determination and is not all that easy, but it is doable.

I hope I am. I was out of the work place for 8 years, went back part time and am now full time. There is progression available and I’m learning all the time.

I spent the 8 years volunteering which meant I had good up-to-date references which helped, and had experiences to talk about in interview.

I was over qualified for my first job back into the workplace and probably slightly under qualified for my current one, but they saw potential.

Looks like volunteering might be an idea.

Are there any transferable skills from being at home that I should put on my CV. Just so it looks like I've learned something from being a parent?

All ex SAHPs know it gives you plenty of transferable skills. But if you ask on here it is not at all the done thing to advertise them on your CV.

Fine to mention if you get an interview I reckon.

Some companies have 'return to work' schemes but I think they are aimed for returning professionals such as tax advisors, accountants etc.

I have a gap on my CV of three years due to caring responsibilities. Elderly parents. I write 'Career break for family responsibilities' on my CV. I lead recruiters into think I was a SAHM as I know they are put off by it.

Good luck!