Re-entering the workforce when you’re a single mom can feel big and a bit scary. You’ve got a lot to think about who will take care of your kids, how you will manage your money, and how you’ll fit everything into your day.
But, getting back to work can also be good for you and your family. It means you can earn money, meet new people, and do something for yourself, too.
This article is here to help you with that big step. We’re sharing 10 tips to make going back to work as a single parent a bit easier for you. Remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time. You’ve got this!
Challenges Of Returning To Work As A Single Parent
Re-entering the workforce as a single parent can present several challenges, both practical and emotional.
Here are some common challenges that single parents may face when re-entering the workforce:
1. Childcare:
It is a challenge for single parents to find reliable and affordable daycare for their children. If a parent has odd work hours or is unable to pay for full-time daycare, it’ll be difficult to juggle childcare arrangements with working.
This could also lead to more of a headache by finding out which places have space available, the quality of the facility, and if your child will be safe in someone else’s care.
2. Financial Strain:
When you’re a single parent, you are responsible for all of the financial expenses that come along with raising a child/children. Going back to work as a single parent can help with money issues, but it can also bring more expenses such as paying someone to watch your kid(s), transportation funds, work clothes, etc.
Managing money becomes something that needs to be done properly at this point. Saving money might become harder than it was before because of limited income and unexpected fees that’ll come up; especially since there’s only one source of cash flow coming in now.
3. Time Management:
We’ve all had those days where we barely had time in the day to breathe let alone get everything done on our agenda list; so just imagine being a single parent who has been out all day trying to make ends meet while still giving their kid(s) attention.
Their lives most likely feel like they’re slipping through their fingers because time is moving too fast. Having enough time in the world isn’t an option when your schedule consists of printouts from Google Sheets telling you what you should be doing at every hour.
4. Emotional Impact:
Going back to work as a single parent after leaving brings emotions out from people that they’ve possibly never experienced before (especially if they were gone for a while). They think that they aren’t good enough or fear failure like no other.
Leaving your child(ren) with someone who’s not yourself can bring out feelings of guilt and separation anxiety. On top of that, balancing work and parenting can build up stress levels which leads to emotional exhaustion.
5. Career Advancement:
Sometimes when you take time off from working it might hinder your chances of moving forward in your career. So when you do go back to apply for a job, you could be starting from a lower position or even having to start all over. Which is never fun.
Single parents will more than likely need to spend extra time on their education or sharpening their skills to remain competitive with others who’ve been working this whole time. It may not be easy either find the right opportunity that fits your circumstances, experience, etc., but don’t get discouraged! You’ll find one sooner than later.
Finding ways to network and grow will help with overcoming these challenges along with resourcefulness and resilience.
Read More: What Is A Single Parent Family? Understanding It’s Advantages and Disadvantages
10 Tips For Re-Entering The Workforce As A Single Mother
Re-entering the workforce as a single mother can be both exciting and daunting.
Here are ten tips to help you navigate this transition successfully:
1. Time to Spice Up the Resume
Get started by revising your resume to match your skillset and experience. Show potential employers why you’re a valuable candidate by showcasing relevant achievements and qualifications.
Anything works, from volunteer work to freelance projects or additional learning opportunities you’ve taken on while outside of the workforce. A strong resume can set you apart from other applicants and get you to the interview stage.
2. Make Connections
Networking is crucial when making your way back into the workforce. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and family members for any leads or networking events they might know about.
Industry events, job fairs, and professional networking groups are also good options for building up your contacts and giving yourself more job-searching outlets. By connecting with professionals in your field, not only will you find hidden job opportunities but also make lasting relationships.
3. Flexibility is Key
There are plenty of flexible work arrangements that can help balance out parenting responsibilities with being an employee again. Consider part-time jobs or remote work that allows you to be there for your child while still making money.
Research companies that offer these kinds of arrangements and ask about their policies during interviews or applications. Flexibility is one of the most important factors when it comes to managing life as a single mother while working.
4. Get Back in the Swing
Stay competitive by updating your skills and knowledge base within your industry. Plenty of online classes, workshops, or certification programs can give you a leg up on the competition and keep you caught up in a world that’s constantly moving.
If there’s something specific that interests you but isn’t exactly in demand at this moment, go after it anyway! Investing in yourself guarantees new doors will open more easily than before.
5. Take Advantage
Don’t be afraid to reach out for support from organizations meant specifically for single mothers like yourself. They have countless resources available such as advice and emotional support for those struggling with re-entering the workforce.
Connect with other single mothers who have gone through what you’re going through and learn from their insights and strategies. Having people around you to help in this process will make it go by smoother than if you tried tackling everything alone.
6. Arrange for a babysitter:
Get some reliable help that fits your schedule and meets your needs. Look up after-school programs, or child care subsidies near you to find the best option for your family.
Keep the communication flowing with your babysitter about your work hours and expectations so everyone’s on the same page. Having this sorted out will let you be at peace while you focus on work.
Read More: Raising A Child As A Single Dad: 10 Helpful Tips!
7. Take it easy:
Give yourself some time off to make sure you stay in top shape – mentally and physically – as you transition back into the workforce. Make time for activities such as meditation, exercise, or spending quality time with loved ones.
Draw a line between work and personal life so you don’t get burned out doing one thing all day long. Taking care of yourself is important not only for your role as a single mom but also as an employee.
8. Be real with yourself:
Know what’s possible in terms of what you can handle at work and home life. You have to understand that things might not always go smoothly, and that’s fine! Give yourself grace as you figure things out along the way.
Set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate when you achieve them no matter how small they are. Let your employer know about any special needs or limitations as a single mother, and work together to meet halfway so that both of you can succeed.
9. Create a network:
Surround yourself with people who are supportive of what you’re going through right now – friends, family members, or colleagues who respect what it means to be a single mom with a career job. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help when needed because they’d do the same if they were in your shoes.
Sharing experiences can make dealing with challenges easier because there’ll be someone else who gets it too and can offer practical advice or just simple encouragement.
10. Stay positive & persistent:
Keep your spirits high and don’t give up easily as you try to find a job that ticks all the boxes on your list. You need to understand that the perfect job may take time, but that shouldn’t discourage you from trying again.
Keep applying for jobs, networking, and searching for other opportunities that align with your goals. Remember – every “no” is just a lesson in disguise. Focus on where you see yourself and your family in the long run so nothing can throw you off track.
By implementing these tips and strategies, you can successfully re-enter the workforce as a single mother and pursue your career goals while balancing your responsibilities at home.
Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate your achievements along the way. You have the strength and resilience to overcome any challenges that come your way and build a bright future for yourself and your family. Good luck!
Read More: How To Date As A Single Parent: 6 Helpful Tips To Restart Your Romantic Life!
A Word From Mind Family
As you embark on the journey of work as a single parent, remember that you are not alone. The challenges you face may seem daunting, but with determination and perseverance, you can overcome them.
At Mind Family, we understand the unique struggles that single mothers encounter and want to offer our support and encouragement.
We applaud your courage in taking this step toward achieving your career goals while balancing the responsibilities of parenthood. Remember to lean on your support network, seek out resources, and prioritize self-care along the way. You are capable of great things, and we believe in your ability to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the challenges of returning to work as a single mother?
Returning to work as a single mother poses challenges such as finding affordable childcare, managing finances, balancing work and parenting duties, dealing with emotional impact, and navigating career advancement hurdles.
2. What are some tips for re-entering the workforce as a single mother?
Tips for single mothers re-entering the workforce include updating resumes, networking, considering flexible work options, updating skills, seeking support, arranging childcare, practicing self-care, setting realistic expectations, building a support network, and staying positive and persistent.
3. What’s the best career option for work as a single parent?
The best career option for a single mother depends on individual skills, interests, and circumstances. Consider flexible jobs, remote work, part-time positions, or careers with growth potential. Prioritize roles that offer work-life balance and accommodate parental responsibilities.
