Ask Matt

I'm a mid-40s mom, looking to work full time now that I'm an empty nester. I have lots of gaps on my resume where I took summers off. How can I get my foot in the door?

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: November 5, 2006 - 7:24 PM

Question: I'm a mid-40s mom, looking to work full time now that I'm an empty nester. I have lots of gaps on my resume where I took summers off, but I do have a degree in marketing I earned while my kids were young, and experience to go with it. How can I get my foot in the door?

Matt: If you have a marketing background, this is the perfect time to create a marketing campaign - and you're the subject.

Remember, you're never too old, says Carole Arndt, who has 20 years of experience in corporate human resources and is president of The Human Resource EDGE, Inc. (www.humanresourceedge.com).

Keep in mind you've probably done more in the past few years than you give yourself credit. Have you been a volunteer for any organization or school over the past few years? Have you led a project? What skills did you use or have you gained as a result? Show that on your resume.

When reviewing want ads, look for a pattern of new skills you may have to learn or brush up on. The most glaring change may be technical, so be prepared to take computer-related courses.

When putting together your resume, focus on skills and abilities, not job titles or companies, says Joyce LeMay, SPHR (senior professional in human resources), and an associate professor of business and human resources at Bethel University.

"Employers want to know what the prospective employee can bring to the organization, so highlight those qualities," says LeMay. "Articulate why and how you're now ready to re-enter the work force."

Companies that place an emphasis on work/life balance are more open to having someone re-enter the work force after taking some time off to be at home. Also, remember to update your wardrobe and dress professionally. A mini-makeover may also boost confidence, says LeMay. Line up as many interviews as possible to practice the routine of getting ready to go to work, and do some practice interviews with friends or family. These efforts will get you back in the groove, and you'll be in the swing of things in no time.

This is a weekly column devoted to career betterment. Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has eight years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

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