Should I mention children in job application?

[ShatterResistant]

In the last 2 years, I've taken 2 lots of 6 months maternity leave. Since then, I've gone part time, and been comprehensively sidelined at the company I've been with for 10 years (a whole nother story) so I'm now applying for new jobs. As I write my cv and covering letter, it's becoming clear to me that it appears that I've gone from being an international high-flyer to pretty run-of-the-mill with no explanation. It almost looks like I've been demoted, which is absolutely not the case. So, should I mention the children?

Your advice greatly appreciated, and any other thoughts.

OP, is your CV a very traditional one with the employment listed by dates on the first place? The key information an employer wants is to know whether you can do the job - that's based on skills and experience, rather than dates. Focus on your top five skills on the first page, and then include just a list of jobs with dates later on, on page 2. Google "skills-based CV - there are loads of examples online.

Of course, if it's an application form which insists on stating whether it was full or part time, then you have to include that info, and it may be clearer that you've taken time out. But I agree with the poster above that most people will assume it was maternity leave anyway. I had a 3 month sabbatical from one job once, and when I came back, HR assumed I'd been on maternity, even though they'd previously signed off the agreement for 3 months unpaid leave, and it was on my records and everything.

Lots of good advice already.

A future employer only needs to know what you want them to know IYSWIM.

Think about the 'story' of you role - what is it you are delivering for the co? I wouldn't go into too much internal detail.

I interviewed someone once who completely confused us with all the ins and out of the internal set-up which distracted from what she'd done in her role.

Mat leave is still employment.

I would always avoid trying to mention family. Most men would never refer to their home life - although I appreciate you did change your hours.

Good luck.

I wouldn't mention hours or children! Far too much discrimination against working mothers as it is, why highlight you are one? If they ask at interview, fine