If you’re one of the many moms returning to work, welcome! I know the thought of starting a job search can feel overwhelming. After taking time off to care for your family, stepping back into the professional world may feel intimidating, but it’s completely doable. The key is knowing where to look and having a strategy that works for you.
Whether you’re reentering the workforce for the first time in years, looking to change careers, or simply exploring new opportunities, this guide will walk you through the best places to find jobs and give tips for maximizing your chances.
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Moms Returning to Work: Where to Look for Your Next Job
Job Search Sites
The internet is full of opportunities, but some sites are especially helpful for mothers going back to work:
- LinkedIn – Great for networking, connecting with recruiters, and discovering opportunities tailored to your experience.
- Indeed – Offers filters for salary, location, remote or on-site, and experience level.
- Monster.com – A classic job board that allows you to apply directly to many companies.
- CareerBuilder – Lets you create a profile highlighting your skills and certifications.
- ZipRecruiter – Matches candidates to jobs based on qualifications and experience.
- Glassdoor – Not only posts jobs but also provides company reviews and salary insights.
- USAJOBS – Ideal if you’re interested in federal employment.
- The Mom Project – Specifically designed to support moms returning to work, offering flexible and family-friendly positions.
Complete your profile fully and highlight your qualifications and experience that align with the jobs you’re targeting. Many of these platforms allow filters, so you can customize searches for remote work, salary ranges, or part-time options, which can be a game-changer for moms returning to work.
Company Websites
Another effective strategy is to apply directly on the company website. Make a list of companies you envision yourself working at and check their careers page regularly.
Here’s a little tip: I like to use job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed to see which companies are hiring, and then apply directly on the company’s site. This ensures that the job is current and reduces the chance of submitting applications to outdated listings or false or potential scammy websites.
Staffing Agencies
Staffing agencies are a great resource for moms returning to work, especially if you’re exploring a new career path or want temporary positions that can lead to full-time work.
I’ve personally used staffing agencies like Frankcrum Staffing and Kelly Services when I first moved to the U.S.
- Frankcrum helped me land a position as a recruiting associate, which eventually became full-time.
- Kelly Services connected me to a proctoring role at public schools, a temporary position that allowed me to gain experience while supporting my family.
Other popular staffing agencies include Robert Half, Adecco, and Kelly Services. These agencies can help match your skills to the right roles, whether temporary, contract, or permanent, making them perfect for mothers going back to work.
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations are another excellent way to reenter the workforce. Many offer job boards, networking opportunities, and career resources tailored to your field.
For example, if you work in learning and development, the Association for Talent Development (ATD) has a job bank, training courses, and networking events. Joining professional groups not only helps you return to work but also allows you to connect with others in your industry, sometimes even landing opportunities through networking alone.
Facebook Groups
Yes, Facebook can be a surprisingly useful resource for moms returning to work. There are countless groups dedicated to sharing job leads, remote positions, and industry-specific openings.
Try searching with keywords like “job board,” “remote jobs,” or “local job boards.” Many of these groups also share tips and resources specifically for moms returning to work or mothers going back to work.
Tip for Moms Returning to Work
Customize Your Applications
Let’s say you’re excited because you found some jobs you really want to apply to. Before uploading your resume and pressing the SUBMIT button, take a moment to customize each application. Each job is different, and tailoring your resume and cover letter to highlight the skills and experience most relevant to the position makes a big difference.
Even if you’ve had a career gap, focus on transferable skills, volunteer work, and accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to succeed. Using the job description as a guide, include keywords and examples that show you’re a strong fit. This extra effort can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview, especially for moms returning to work who want to make a confident impression.
Final Thoughts
Starting a job search for moms can feel overwhelming, but taking small, organized steps makes it manageable. Between job boards, company websites, staffing agencies, professional organizations, and even Facebook groups, there are plenty of options to help you successfully reenter the workforce.
Remember, your experience, skills, and perspective as a mom are valuable assets. Be confident in what you bring to the table, customize your applications, and leverage every resource available. The right opportunity is out there, and with persistence and preparation, you’ll find it.
Whether this is your first time returning to work, take it one step at a time. You’ve got this!
Best wishes,
Mel
