Job Hunting for Moms

Job Hunting for Moms in the Digital Age

Job hunting can be tough. One by One mom Colby Fleming shared the following tips to help moms as they seek employment. As with many things in life, Colby says preparation is key to success. Keep reading for some great tips to help find the job for you!

Define your career goals.
Make a list of what you ideally want in a job. Are you looking for full or part-time work? In an office or in your home? If you’re unsure of your goals, consider taking a personality test such as Myers-Briggs to help you determine the type of career you could be best suited for.

Conduct a skills assessment.
What skills do you currently have? How can they be used in different jobs? Think about soft skills such as your ability to write, problem solve, be creative, etc., as well as hard skills such as experience with certain software programs or industry certifications.

Now you’re ready to begin a targeted job search looking for opportunities to combine your goals with your skills.

Draft a resume.
Customize your resume for every job. Highlight achievements, and, when possible, put numbers to achievements. (I implemented a plan to save $X; or I developed a program that increased revenue by $X, etc.) Use clear formatting: avoid lines, columns, and page breaks that bots can interpret as the end of a page. Run your resume through an online scan tool such as Jobscan to ensure the wording on your resume matches the job description. Save each customized resume with the company name in the file name.

Create a professional online presence.
A strong online presence is a must in today’s job market. LinkedIn is a great platform to showcase your skills and connect with industry professionals. Platforms, such as X and Facebook offer opportunities for networking and professional growth. Engage with industry-related content, join industry groups, engage with people in your industry, attend virtual job fairs and webinars, and network with recruiters in your area.

Begin your job search.
Use websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter to help identify job opportunities. These sites will allow you to upload a generic resume and set up job alerts to assist in your search. Also visit the career or job opportunities pages of companies you’re interested in working for. Read the company’s news, and reach out to people currently working at those companies. Be willing to ask for help in your search: people are often happy to refer good candidates. Use referrals from your network to improve your chances of finding a job through mutual connections. Visit these websites often to check for new postings and updates.

Apply online.
When you are ready to apply for a position, use key words from the job description to tailor your resume. Run your resume through an AI platform such as Jobscan, and look for at least a 75-80% match between your resume and the job description. Apply early to get an edge over other applicants.

Submit a cover letter.
Submit a cover letter if you have that option. Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if you can find it. Personalize the letter. Show genuine enthusiasm for the job while demonstrating how your skills can support the company’s needs. If you can find the hiring manager’s information, email him or her to express interest in the job and your desire for an interview while showing how your skills match the job requirements.

Create a job application tracker.
Create a spreadsheet to track the information for all the jobs you apply for: company name, job title, contact name, salary information, application date, interview date, needed follow-up, results. This spreadsheet will help you track your progress and maintain communication with a company without being intrusive.

Prepare for a virtual job interview.
Test your technology before your interview. Make sure your camera and microphone work, you have a strong internet connection, you have good lighting, and you have a professional background. Dress professionally. Do your research on the company, and be prepared with questions. Speak precisely and professionally. Maintain eye contact with the camera, and maintain good body language. Send a thank you note after the interview expressing your appreciation of the hiring manager’s time and consideration as well as reiterating your enthusiasm and skills for the job.

Evaluate the job offer.
If you are offered a job, get the offer in writing. Consider the job, salary, and benefits in addition to the company culture. Be willing to negotiate the terms of the offer (you get what you accept.) Decide if you will accept or continue searching.

One by One wants new moms to be the best moms they can be - and that includes being great providers for their families. In addition to providing friendship, support, and parenting education, our mentors connect moms to resources to help them as they look to continue their education, seek job opportunities, and more. If you are a pregnant or new mom who would like a OBO mentor, you can apply here today.