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So.... how do I keep myself employable?

3 replies

Glitterknickaz · 04/08/2010 16:51

I have three kids, all with additional needs of varying kinds, including mobility and mental/social issues.

I can't see myself returning to work in the very near future but I'm hoping one day that my children will have sufficient independence that I can return to work. It's by no means guaranteed but I am SO aware that I have already been out of the workplace for seven years and will be for the forseeable.

Before I left work I was a PA, I helped my boss with the day to day running of his three companies. That included accounts, payroll as well as publicity. I've also worked in export administration and management and a couple of other admin roles.

I've kept my IT knowledge pretty current, in fact until recently I was running an IT class for my local district council. I had to give this up though owing to the demands of the increasing medical appointments DD is now requiring. I'm a local neighbourhood councillor and school governor, although these things happen in the evenings and my commitment is on the understanding that they must fit around my family commitments. I also do these things to stretch me mentally as being a carer just does not feed the mind!

I really am concerned that one day I might attempt to return to the workplace and be basically unemployable. Can anyone think of anything that may be beneficial to do now that would increase my prospects of employment in the future?

OP posts:
helenbalancelife · 05/08/2010 13:05

Hi

Firstly you have loads of expereince already. Secondly have you thought of having your own home based business in the future? This allows flexibility around your current family commitments, working the hours you choose...

This is what I did (packed in my previous management job in London as a result). Trying for a family and then being pregnant, I couldn't see commuting or long hours working around me and my family working, so this is ideal (see balance-life.co.uk).

There are lots of opportunities out there with lots of different home based businesses, that use all the people skills, IT skills and organisational skills you have in ambundance.

Goodluck for the future!

CMOTdibbler · 05/08/2010 13:10

How about being a virtual PA ? You can provide a service to people where you have their phone diverted to you, use web based calendars to manage their diary for them, write documents - all that sort of thing. Also do bookeeping for small companies that can't justify a full time person.

If you can get a qualification in bookeeping (most adult education places do them), then that would be a real bonus

EmmaHewett · 06/08/2010 14:39

Sounds like you're really busy accruing useful work skills which may not be immediately apparent to you, ie transferable skills.

Use this free 10 minute test to put your skills into employer friendly language, find out how to define what you're good at, and get some tips (no catch, honest), at:
www.venturenavigator.co.uk/skills

Good luck! Smile

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