To ask what is the best way to word this time on cv?

[spaghettispool]

Any HR people about?? I took a career break from my job (which was an unskilled manual position) 3 years ago. This was mainly so that I could be at home with the kids, though during that time I have done a number of courses to upskill, and I have freelanced on a part time basis as a copywriter which earned me some decent money. I had decided from the outset not to return to my old job as the hours were very unsociable and would be difficult to work around with childcare.

I have been looking to get back into work full time now as an employee rather than self employed and despite applying furiously for jobs that I am qualified and suitable for, I haven't even been called for interview I'm wondering if this is because of my cv. In my employment history, I have my previous job (which I was in for 9 years), followed by the 3 year stint as a freelancer.

Would I be better off dropping the freelancing from my employment history, and just explain that I took a career break and briefly mention the freelancing? I'm worried that prospective employers may see it as BS and just gloss over the rest.

I was quite honest about taking a break for reasons similar to yours. I got rejected in a few places but eventually I found a suitable role. I also added skills to my break and I explained that in detail. Can you write in your cover letter if those help in the roles you are looking for? Are you able to take samples/references from freelance work?
I also recommend volunteering as a way to find work. I did some locally and was able to show that as well. Try your kids school or local libraries. Good luck!

I'm not in HR but I would be honest and say you were a home-maker (or whatever term you like) and did some freelance work to keep your skills up to date as time permitted. Never underestimate the value that being able to run a home and sort out your kids brings to a job. My line manager's wife did a bit of music teaching but was essentially a stay-at-home mum for at least 10 years. She was really worried about going back into the workplace but we looked at the fact that she knew exactly what her 3 DS and DH needed every day, they all had home-cooked food and clean washing and she had done some voluntary work. That showed planning and organisation, a calm head and a willingness to engage with all sorts of different people. She got the first managerial job she applied for.

Thanks ladies that's encouraging. I will alter it to include the break and see if I get any bites. I can use samples of my freelance work so hopefully that will help too.

This was mainly so that I could be at home with the kids, though during that time I have done a number of courses to upskill, and I have freelanced on a part time basis as a copywriter

I’m not an HR person per se, but I’m involved in selection and recruitment. To be honest, I’d see the bit I’ve highlighted above as a strength. It shows someone who’s able to commit themselves to learning new skills, even when they have a lot of other demands on their time bringing up a family. It also shows energy and self-discipline. I’d be impressed reading something like that in an application form.

Good luck and well done on what you’ve achieved so far.

I would put it down as freelance time and say while you enjoyed having the flexibility to upskill in that time, you realised you thrive in a team etc to make it extra positive :)