For all you SAHMs...

[kasar]

After 12 years of staying home, I'm looking for a little part-time job (15 hours/week). There are plenty out there and I'm not looking for a "career", just something to get me out there interacting with people. I'm happy doing lots of different things and money is not the issue so I'm pretty open to any type of job.

Some jobs have requested a resume. Doesn't it seem silly to give a resume without any recent jobs? In fact, the last two jobs I had before having kids don't even exist anymore - both companies were bought out or closed. So, we're talking almost 18 years ago! I've done lots of volunteer work for the PTO, including my current position of Secretary, I have pretty good computer skills from doing that plus helping friends with their computers. But all that isn't relevant on a resume and would look kind of silly, in my opinion, to play up my little PTO "jobs".

Do they really want an old, outdated resume? Maybe a cover letter or something would be better. What do you think?

 

[Keggy]

If they have requested a resume, they want a resume - could just be their policy...

I would update it with your volunteer activity as well as your prior work experience and add your time as a SAHM as well.

Good Luck!

 

[MsDisney23]

A nice little resume would be nice. Staying at home is a Full time Job! I would also list on their your two previous employers and your job duties. List your computer background, typing wpm, what programs you can run: Excel, windows, Quicken, etc. (you get the idea)

I would list what organizations that you belong to and what position you hold.
Also list Reference available upon request.

Now if you want to be around people. I would try a place like Bath & Body Works, Michael's, something that you would enjoy for the 15 hours a week! I would not want to be stuck behind a desk or answering a telephone. I would want it to be fun! Best of Luck to ya,

 

[va32h]

I was not out of the workplace for that many years, but I do have a gap in my resume. I got a part time job a month ago; I submitted a resume that was organized by skills, not chronologically.

I had sections for "management experience", "retail experience", "Customer service", "hiring and training" and "computer skills".

I also included a cover letter that explained why I was absent from the conventional workplace, and expressed my willingness to "start over" at more of an entry level position. I strongly emphasized things like reliability, character, efficiency, and professionalism. And I had lots of references.

Don't think those old jobs aren't relevant - with the job I have now, the hiring manager specifically mentioned a job I'd had ten years ago as being one of the reasons she called me for an interview!

Good luck in your search! I found my job at monster.com.

 

[barkley]

i interviewed and reccommended for hiring plenty of recent sahm's. their time managament skills were awesome! list your volunteer skills, most employers are looking for job skills and weather you got them in a paid or non-paid position is not a huge issue.

 

[goodeats]

There seem to be a lot of SAHM types at William Sonoma. I'd love to have a discount there plus get the jump on their sales.

 

[Kermit]

I agree that you should primary list your skills. At the bottom, you can devote a small amount of space to your work history, but your primary emphasis should be what you know how to do.