If you’ve been a stay-at-home mum (SAHM) for several years and are planning to go back to work, you may feel anxious and worried about the impending changes. Acknowledge that your whirlwind of emotions are normal – just as you are wondering if being “out of touch” from the working world would create a dent in your resume.

These concerns are very real and common amongst SAHMs who wish to re-launch their careers.

How can mums be more confident about making this decision to switch yet be all ready to perform at their best with their new “working mum” hats?

Can SAHMs re-enter the workforce after a long absence without worry?

Here are some practical tips to help stay-at-home-mums transition to working mums:

1. Ensure reliable childcaring support is in place

As a mother, one of our biggest worries is whether we can leave our children in the good hands of trusted people. Have a think about who can take your place in caring your children now that you’ve decided to return to work. Would you send them to childcare, engage a foreign domestic helper or enlist grandparents to help? Children need time to build trust with their caregivers too, especially if they’re not familiar with them. Once the childcaring support is taken care of, it would bring peace of mind to you.

2. What are your interests, passion or goals for this new job?

Think about what you are interested to do at your new job. Are you looking to return to the same industry as before? Or, hoping to switch industry and have a change of career this time? If this is going to be your first job, what would attract you to report to work every day with joy? Take this time to evaluate your personal interests and passion, and if possible, set some short-term goals and maybe long-term career goals too, if there’s some visibility on this.

3. Full-time working mum, part-time working mum, flexi-work mum or side hustler?

Consider how much time you can take away from being an SAHM. There’s no right or wrong answer; merely a practical choice because everyone’s situation and choices can vary. Some SAHMs may prefer to start a sideline or a part-time role first, taking some time in their day to earn some money and financial independence. Some mums may wish to head straight into a full-time position. Did you know that many companies are also offering flexi-work arrangements (FWA)? In fact, in December 2024, employers need to have a process for employees to request for flexi-work arrangements (i.e. flexi-place, flexi-time and flexi-load), so this can be very helpful for families with young children or elderly parents to care for.

Jenelle’s working mum tips: During job interviews, keep an open communication with your hirers and ask about their work arrangements. Some companies practise hybrid work, while others expect all employees to work at the office. Depending on your role, understand and manage your expectations that not everyone is able to fully work-from-home or be able to have flexi-work arrangements.

4. Work on personal growth, build your professional portfolio or credentials and grow your network

Technology and our world are constantly evolving, so it’s important to keep abreast of the current affairs, industry news and what the role that you’re keen on entails. If you have stopped working for several years, are you still in touch with ex-colleagues? Catch up with them or expand your network by getting to know people in the industry that you wish to join. If you wish to sharpen your knowledge further, use the SkillsFuture Credit to upskill or reskill as well as monetary support to pursue tertiary courses like Diplomas and Degrees. Attend courses, workshops or seminars to boost your industry insights. If need be, there may also be pro bono or volunteering opportunities for you to hone your skills if you wish to start building up some professional experience first.

Spruce up your LinkedIn profile and prepare your resume so that you are ready to send it out to potential employers.

5. Keep your pulse on career opportunities and openings

Check out job postings on different recruitment websites, reach out to recruitment agencies to put your details down for the job search, check the respective websites of the interested companies to look out for any openings or simply reach out to HR and ask if there are possible vacancies. Attend recruitment fairs and speak to potential employers to understand their company and the relevant roles better.

6. Put the word out there that you are opened to work

Within your personal and professional network, let your friends, family and contacts know that you are looking to return to the workforce and share your experience so they can help keep an eye out for you too. Some companies prefer to hire by referral or recommendation – this may be a chance for you to score an interview!

7. Have an open conversation with your spouse and children

Having the family’s support and understanding helps. Discuss your thoughts and plans with your spouse and get him prepared on the changes too. With young children, talk to them and share when mummy is likely to start work so they can expect not to see you at home when they return from school. Allow them to anticipate the changes in routine so they can cope better, which includes new caregivers in place and who they can look for when you are working. It is also a good idea to share why mummy is making this decision to focus on her career after taking years off to run the household. It is not an easy decision to make, but children do also need to know a slice of reality of the sacrifices and lifestyle changes that mummies make, in order to raise a family. Now, it’s mummy’s turn to prioritise her own goals.

8. Be prepared for mum’s guilt and practise self-compassion

We will experience mummy’s guilt whatever decisions we make or don’t make. Be kind to yourself as it will also be the first time where you will spend long hours away from your children. The transition from SAHM to working mum needs time, so do acknowledge and embrace the emotions you experience. Let me tell you – there are also struggles that working mums deal with. So, take heart and don’t risk getting a burnout too!

9. Make the decision and leap forward

Securing your ideal job doesn’t happen overnight. Work out a plan, mums, and stick to it if you are certain on this decision. Afterall, you’re that superwoman who has been dealing with children’s meltdowns, countless negotiations, meal planning, sending them to and fro various places and planning fun kids’ activities plus limited me time. Your planner mode is definitely a strength!

Here’s wishing you the best of luck in your new endeavours! Congratulations on making this move and achieving what your heart desires! As a working mum myself, I know how challenging it can be when work-life integration expects mums to be on our toes for all the responsibilities we shoulder. We can do it!