Topic 12:

From Stay-at-Home Mom to Learning Specialist

Question: I have a Masters Degree in organizational behavior and have worked as a HR Generalist/Specialist for about 3.5 years. However, I have gaps in my resume and I have not been working in the last year since I had a baby. I am now looking to reenter the workforce and am very interested in being a learning specialist and would like any advice on how I can find a foot in the door

--Usha, Boston, MA

Answer: Since your background information indicated 3½ years experience and you have been a stay at home mom for a year, I would suspect that your Masters was obtained at a minimum, five years ago. In addition, you are interested in making a professional shift from being organization-focused to employee-focused. Consider taking some professional development courses or certification in workplace learning, e-learning, performance assessment, or knowledge management. Link to Information Resources for Education and Continued Professional Development Resources. Explore your options both in the classroom and online learning programs and delivery.

You did not give details about what you mean by gaps in your resume, which I assume is in addition to the one year that you took off to care for your newborn baby. Depending on why those gaps exist, you may need to give an explanation in the cover letter and interview. Taking time off to have a baby and stay home for awhile with your child is common and accepted. However, the cover letter and interview session should give the impression that you are ready and eager to return to work and that you have solid child care arrangements in place. A functional resume that focuses on your strengths, transferable skills, and training experience is more appropriate to your situation than is a chronological one. I would recommend using the services of a professional resume reviewer or career consultant.

If you have not already done so, start renewing your network contacts - let them know you are interested in returning to work. If you belong to the local ASTD Chapter and any other professional organizations, try to attend their meetings and expand your network. Many times job announcements are made at the meetings. Your background information indicates that you worked in the healthcare industry; if that still holds interest for you, contact your former supervisor and colleagues to see if they know of any opportunities.

--AR