These ideas□- taken from 107 Winning Ideas on Returning to Work, the first pamphlet in the Juggling Woman series□- are designed to guide you towards making the right choice, and to help you decide what will make you a balanced and happy individual. www.zhlzw.com
Think about what you want to achieve and what you are willing to give up. Commitments at home can be reorganised so that you can work if you want to. But, even if your requirements are largely financial, don't rush things.
1、Weigh up your commitments (to children, parents, partner, other activities and hobbies). How can you make a job fit in too? Something may have to go.
2、Talk about your plans with those nearest to you (partner/dependents). Don't spring this career or lifestyle change on them like a bolt from the blue. Communication is crucial.
3、Assess what a career move might mean: moving house? moving to a different area? returning to your roots? leaving friends behind? Would you be able to manage such changes, if necessary?
4、Consider your domestic responsibilities and your financial needs, and the sacrifices you may need to make. Be realistic in your aspirations.
5、Work out how many hours per day/week it is practical for you to work. You can probably negotiate to work more hours, but it might be more difficult to work fewer hours.
6、Think of your job or course of study as entirely yours□- not something you are doing for other people. If you get it right it will be a great boost to your self-esteem and confidence.
7、When you are pleased with the job you are doing, your all-round performance and contribution to life at home and at work will improve.
8、You may be going to work largely for financial reasons, but it is also your 'outside interest'□- make sure it's one you will enjoy.
9、Any financial contribution you make to the home will please everyone□- most of all you.
10、You are likely to feel more 'connected' to a new community: finding a job helps you make friends, especially after a house move.
11、A job helps prevent "empty nest" syndrome later on, especially if you return to work whilst children are still at school.
Writing Your CV (Resume)/Job Application
Your CV is the first sight your future employer will have of you. Spend time making it stand out from the crowd.
1、Remember if you have been a housewife for a while, you have also been a worker. Don't put "I have been out of work for ___ years," because you have not.
2、Apply for a job regardless of whether you have all the qualifications stated in the advertisement. With a bit of training, you could do the job anyway.
3、Be proud of your achievements; state them positively and concisely without bragging.