Writing a resume as a stay-at-home parent can be a tricky process. This is because of the gaps in the job history, the lack of conventional work, and the challenge to explain this period of time. However, by following a few tips, you can make writing an effective resume as a stay-at-home parent a smooth and uncomplicated process. In this article, we aim to walk you through the basics of how to write a resume as a stay-at-home parent, including outlining what to include, how to structure it, and how to make it stand out. By the end, you should feel equipped with the knowledge you need to start writing your resume with confidence.
As a stay-at-home parent, the transition back to the working world can be daunting. To make yourself stand out among candidates, you need to write an effective resume that draws attention to your skills and presents your work history in a better light. Writing a resume as a stay-at-home parent is completely doable but requires some strategic thinking.
Writing a Summary
It is essential to start your resume with a strong professional summary that conveys who you are and highlights your qualifications. Be sure to include the following points:
- Your job title/occupation
- A brief highlight of your specialized skills
- Any form of volunteer work done during your stay-at-home period
- Important awards or recognition for accomplishments
- Number of years of experience in your field
Make sure to keep this summary concise, as employers often do not take the time to read long summaries.
Outlining Skills
In this next step, it’s important to showcase the skills you attained during your stay-at-home period that would be applicable to positions you are applying for. List 3-4 skills that you acquired while taking care of children, such as problem-solving, time management, budget analysis, etc. You can also include any certifications or other trainings you took that could be beneficial to hiring managers.
Highlighting Other Accomplishments
It is essential to add some of your major achievements that you made while being a stay-at-home parent. If you volunteered in any community activities or coached any sports teams, make sure to include these achievements. Additionally, if you took on any side projects while taking care of your children, add these as well.
Adding Education
Another section to include in your resume is your educational experience. Adding your educational background demonstrates that you are knowledgeable in your field and well-read. If you’ve taken any classes or seminars during your stay-at-home period, list these as well.
Explaining Gaps
Explaining any gaps in your job history is important, but there is no need to go into too much detail. Simply state that you were a stay-at-home parent and list any relevant accomplishments that you achieved during that time period.
Structuring the Document
Organizing your information in a way that is readily accessible to hiring managers is essential. Begin with your professional summary, followed by your skills section. After this, list your accomplishments and education. Lastly, conclude with any volunteer work and/or seminars/courses taken during your stay-at-home period.
Formatting Tips
It is important to make sure that your resume is aesthetically pleasing and easy to read. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when formatting your resume:
• Use bullet points for easier readability
• Utilize bold or italics for emphasis
• Include white space between sections to draw the reader’s eye
• Select a clear and professional font
Choosing Language
When writing your resume, it is important to use language that is concise and easy to understand. Make sure to avoid using overly complex language and/or technical jargon. Additionally, avoid using the passive voice or any phrases with negative connotations. Instead, use action words to express your experience and accomplishments.
People Also Ask
Are resumes different for stay-at-home parents?
Yes, resumes for stay-at-home parents need to be written differently than a traditional resume. This is because they need to include the skills aquired and accomplishments made while raising children.
How should I explain gaps in my work experience?
Simply state that you were a stay-at-home parent and list any relevant accomplishments that you achieved during that time period.
How should I emphasize my stay-at-home skills?
It’s important to showcase the skills you attained during your stay-at-home period that would be applicable to positions you are applying for. List 3-4 skills that you acquired while taking care of children, such as problem-solving, time management, budget analysis, etc. You can also include any certifications or other trainings you took that could be beneficial to hiring managers.
What font should I use for my resume?
When it comes to choosing a font for your resume, it’s important to select a clear and professional one. Some popular choices for resume fonts include Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri.
Should I list volunteer work on my resume?
Yes, it’s important to include any volunteer work that you did during your stay-at-home period on your resume. This can help emphasize your skills and show hiring managers that you are well-rounded and capable.
Final Words
Writing an effective resume as a stay-at-home parent is possible with some strategic thinking and the right approach. Be sure to highlight any relevant skills and accomplishments you made during your stay-at-home period and organize your document in a way that is easily accessible to hiring managers. Additionally, make sure to choose the right font, use bullet points for easy readability, and utilize action words to express your experience. With these tips, you’ll be able to write a resume that stands out among the crowd and gives you the best chance at acing your next job interview.