Seeking direction for the next 25 years of my professional career

Question

So about 10 years ago I quit my fantastic Director of Merchandise Planning and Customer Service position to have my family. Baby #2 was on the way and I couldn't find a nanny/daycare that my Type A self approved of and the positions in my field required 10 hours in an office environment a day at least.   Over the past 10 years I've taken many part time projects between planning and another love- Recruiting (helping other people get the job of their choice), and was Vice President on my children's preschool board. So very busy and constantly doing something to keep my skills sharp. My youngest started Kindergarten this year and I want to get back to something Full time/more steady but hopefully flexible scheduling as they are still pretty young.  I've been networking and applying for jobs but can't seem to get anywhere. I know I'm scaring people away with the flexible scheduling conversation (which I don't bring up at first) but that is truly where I am at this point. I am also very open to take a lesser position currently so that in 3-4 years when I am most comfortable with being full time away at an office I am set up to succeed.  Any advice on a job or how to word getting what I am seeking without scaring away people? I am also trying to look at the positive side that I can really do anything at this point- I just want to work! Thanks....

Anonymous · Answer

Hi Pam! Have you looked into any retunship opportunities? There are quite a few companies offering these programs for folks looking to return to the workforce. There are also organizations like iRelaunch and Path Forward who focus on helping find these opportunities and navigate the transition.

You can check out Path Forward's group on FGB: https://fairygodboss.com/groups/B1p3Kw0LS/path-forward for additional advice, guidance and support! Good luck!

Gretchen Osterman · Answer

Pam you may want to look at non-profit agencies. The opportunity for part-time is more certain. The idea of new field or and field somewhat related to your previous position might help diversify your resume and prepare you for better opportunities.  Larger agencies such as  the Red Cross or Big Brother Big Sisters could open up some good connections to other industries.

Helen Hanison · Answer

An idea.  A great connect of mine specialises in working with recruitment firms for part-time professional roles.  She says she spends her days helping women solve the biggest problem of our time.  How to have it all - quench the appetite for meaningful and stimulating work without apologising for mothering! She's London-based so I'm not saying there's a known role I could connect you to but the idea of blending your passion for right-fit recruitment with this crossroads you (and so many other women everywhere) experience after they have careered into motherhood would likely be very powerful.

Why not explore what's out there in your geography (or online)?

Jackie Ruka · Answer

Hi Pam, you mentioned you enjoyed recruiting and helping others find and land the jobs of their dreams. With that said, have you looked into a position as a recruiter? There are several professional recruiting organizations looking for more people and you sound perfect. Many of those roles are remote or in a local office. Just an idea... feel free to join the Pivot group on here.

LEANNE TOBIAS · Answer

Pam, For returnships, take a look at iRelaunch.com.

Seeking direction for the next 25 years of my professional career

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