Which resume format is best for a stay at home mom returning back to work?

by Terry
(New Jersey)

Which resume to use for a stay at home mom that has been out of work for over 13 years, but is now ready to return back to the work scene?

Thank you!

Answer: Terry, you don't tell me anything about your work history, other than the 13 year employment gap, nor do you say whether you are trying to return to a previous career or going in a different direction. So, it's hard for me to answer you with any precision...

Still, I can answer in generalities. A skills resume (or functional resume format) often works great for people who have been out of work over a number of years or who are changing careers, because it emphasizes your skills and talents over your work experience.

If you're returning to a previous career, you might want to consider a hybrid, or combination format though, as that will still highlight your past achievements, while also showing your current skill set.

An important thing to think about after such a long absence from the working world is what current skills you will bring. Think "transferable" skills. Those are skills you have gained (or honed) during the past 13 years as a mom, and there are certainly many, including things like communication skills, ability to organize, negotiation skills, etc.

Good luck to you in your job quest!