5 Interview Tips for Moms Returning to Work After a Career Break

In this job market, getting an interview may seem like an impossibility.  I still remember what it felt like to be rejected by 88 companies and never getting a single interview.  But at some point, you will get that interview, and I want you to be ready for it. 

Before we jump in, if you've received the invitation to interview, someone read your resume, saw your potential, and decided they wanted to meet you. That means you've already cleared the first hurdle.  Celebrate this!  Some people never even get the chance to interview.

But even if you haven't received the invitation to interview, here are 5 things you can do to walk into the interview with confidence.

1. Learn about the company before you walk through the door.

Spend 20 to 30 minutes on the company's website and LinkedIn page. Read about their mission, recent news, and the work they do. Pay attention to what they value and the problems they're trying to solve. 

You're not studying for a test. You're learning about the people you hope to work with. The more familiar the company feels, the more comfortable you'll be during the interview.

2. Practice how you'll explain your career gap.

If you've been away from the workforce, don't be surprised if someone asks about it.  Often, they won't ask, but you need to be prepared.  Think about your answer before the interview. Keep it honest, positive, and focused on what you learned during that time away from the workforce and why you're excited to return to work now.

Most importantly, don't apologize for your story. Share it with confidence and move forward.

3. Prepare a few stories that show your strengths.

Interviewers usually remember stories more than they remember lists of skills.  Think of three examples that show how you've solved a problem, handled a challenge, worked with others, or learned something new. Your examples can come from a previous job, volunteer work, school, or even managing a busy household.

Practice telling each story in about two minutes. That way, you'll be ready when you're asked questions like, "Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge."

4. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask.

At the end of almost every interview, you'll hear, "Do you have any questions for us?"  Don't let your answer be, "No."  Prepare two or three questions ahead of time. Ask what success looks like in the role, what they enjoy most about working there, or what challenges the team is working to solve.

Great questions show you're already thinking like a member of the team.

5. Take care of the little things the night before.

Choose your outfit, print extra copies of your resume, and know exactly where you're going and how long it will take to get there.  If your interview is online, test your camera, microphone, and internet connection before the big day.  Taking care of these small details ahead of time lets you focus on what matters most: having a great conversation.

Walking into an interview after years away from the workforce takes courage. But remember, you aren't walking in empty-handed. You're bringing years of experience, resilience, and life lessons that no job title can fully capture.

Trust your preparation. Believe in your story. And remember that the company isn't just interviewing you, you're deciding whether they're the right fit for you, too.

Cheering you on every step of the way.


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