Recently divorced individuals find themselves facing new challenges – some expected and some not as expected. Other new challenges seem to come without any warning. For stay-at-home Moms who wish to or need to re-enter the workforce after divorce, the challenge to succeed in a completely new realm so soon after the stress and emotional turmoil of divorce can seem completely daunting. Some dread the prospect of job hunting. Others feel underqualified or unprepared compared to peers who haven’t taken time out of the workplace. While it is daunting, many eventually find that re-entering the workforce after divorce can be rejuvenating and provide a renewed sense of purpose as well as a chance to explore new opportunities for a new phase of life.
Tips on Re-Entering the Workforce After Divorce:
- Decide What You Want to Do
- Start Applying
- Prepare for Interviews
- Seek the Right Opportunity
First things first, you have to decide what you are looking for. What do you want to do? Are you looking for a position similar to one you held at some point in the past? Do you want to work in the same industry as a past career? Do you seek something completely new and different? Do you want a full-time job or a part time job? Are you looking for a job that you are passionate about? Did you want to relaunch a career you set aside? Don’t forget to consider what you need when you are deciding what you want. Your post-divorce needs may be different than when you were married. You may have to consider financial obligations that were taken care of during your marriage. You may need a job that offers flexible hours so you can devote more time to caring for your children. You may need to insist on a job with excellent healthcare options. It’s important that you find a job that you enjoy, but you also need to find a job that will support you and your family. Don’t rush the search. Take your time and consider all the options to find the job that would best fit you and your new circumstances. Start searching! Once you know what you’re looking for, you need to start looking for it. Actively seek out opportunities and then start applying. Get familiar with various open positions and organizations seeking to hire. Make sure to update your resume to reflect experience you have collected since your last job and tailor the resume specifically for the job you are seeking. Once you’ve submitted numerous applications, you need to prepare for the interview. Don’t let the thought of a job interview cause you stress. They don’t have to be anxiety-inducing – particularly if you prepare ahead of time. Find the right interview outfit, print a few copies of your resume, and practice some answers to common interview questions. Do what you can to showcase your skills and your experience as well as your personality. This is typically what interviewers want to see. Be honest and open about the gap in your employment history and the reason for it. Most people will be understanding and appreciate your openness. Once you’re in the midst of the job application process, remember to be patient. You have to wait for the right opportunity. Don’t rush into something new. If at all possible, take a little bit of time to make sure that you are finding the best job for you and your needs at this time in your life. If you receive a job offer that you aren’t sure about, take as much time as possible to think about it before you make a decision. Don’t be afraid to ask for more time to consider the offer. They shouldn’t mind this type of request as long as you are grateful and enthusiastic about the offer and request time to consider it professionally. If you are unsure how you will manage after divorce or if you have questions about the divorce process, please get in touch with one of the experienced California divorce attorneys at The Maggio Law Firm today.