Returning to work after maternity leave: staying positive during job search

[koalabearboombox]

I'm returning to work after maternity, finished a contract before going on leave so I need to pick up some new work or find a new job. I've got 15 years experience, worked with big name brands, worked to leadership level. And yet in response to 40 job applications made so far, and a ton of outreach to contacts over the last 6 weeks, it's been tumbleweed. I know the job market is quiet and I can afford to keep looking for a maximum of 6 months but... Seriously?!

How do I keep my head up during this time? Baby starts childcare in mid May so I'll have a bit more time to throw at it then.

Anyone got any more tips? Really miss using my brain and having money.

Does your area run a CAP Christian’s against poverty job club, I found this was really useful for support from people also out of work ours covered cvs, applications interviews but had guest speakers from CAB. Also it gave me confidence to start volunteering alongside applying for work.

@koalabearboombox How has your search been? Hopefully now that baby has started childcare, that you have more time and energy for the search.

Sorry @BrightAmberDuck only just saw your message. I agreed with DH to lay off the job search until we had some childcare because it was stressing me out spending all that time on applications late into the night and not getting anywhere. He got a pay rise so it has bought us a bit of breathing room after a couple of tweaks to outgoings.

I'm actually going to lean into setting up my own consultancy. It appeals for flexibility and thanks to DH income I can afford to take the risk for 6 months and see where it leads.

DC2 has started nursery but typically has barely been there due to bugs. She went in Tues morning, I got a call 3 hours later to report a temperature and she's not allowed back for 48 hours. Essentially wiping out childcare for this week... So I'm yet to spend more than 3 hours on my consultancy. Expected though and this too shall pass etc 🫠