Back to work after 20 years at home!!!

Crazychik

MissMoneypenny wrote:

My great aunt got a job when she was 70 using computers and she had never used one before! 5 years later she is still doing that job 3 days a week:D

Thats excellent - well done to your Aunt

Sallys_Savings

CCStar wrote:

I remember using them too:D

glad i'm not the only one lol, I was feeling pretty lonely lol

Sallys_Savings

Crazychik wrote:

My step-mum stayed at home for nearly 20yrs bringing up her 2 kids from previous marriage plus my younger brother n sister, In the last 4 or 5 yrs has gone back to work. She started helping out at the local school, cleaning or kitchen work. Just to get her back into the swing of things of working. And whilst the kids was at school, she went back to college to better herself.

She now works in a local NHS day centre and thoroughly enjoys it. She got turned down quite a few times for jobs (prior to this job) cos of her age and lack of experience, but she was determined and got back out there.

Doesnt matter how old you are, whether you've been in work and looking for a new job, or been out of work for a long period, its all very daunting.
I started a new job 4 weeks ago, Im still finding my feet and still feel nervous at times. In time - we will over come this and think what was all the fuss about.

Would be worth looking at your local college or education centre, for ways of getting quick NVQ certificates, or quick courses to improve your knowledge of today's technology etc - just to make your CV look a bit healthier. That also might give you the confidence to sell yourself more, and dont just accept the first job which comes along

My mum is a yr off from retirement, she walked into a new job early on this yr, but hates it and has spent the last few months looking elsewhere. Mum is very young looking for her age, and always sends a photo with every application, so interviewers arent put off by her age. She's now waiting for reply's.

Good luck

Good luck

Thank you, I think you're right the confidence thing is really holding me back alot.

A friend has suggested that perhaps I try to do temping part time whilst completing further education. That way i'll achieve a little work experience too.

I'm going to take a deep breath and call one tomorrow

Sallys_Savings

MissMoneypenny wrote:

My great aunt got a job when she was 70 using computers and she had never used one before! 5 years later she is still doing that job 3 days a week:D

Good on her!!! I think thats fantastic!!
Now I'm feeling pretty daft feeling so nervous if your great aunt can achieve that.
Makes me more determined that I can do it too

skintmostofthetime

I haven't been able to have kids - loong story - but even though I've worked right through I STULL get terrified when I go for interviews - what if they don't like me/what I wear/I'm late/feel sick/have car trouble .......
Just remember - they use the loo like all of us !!Good luck in whatever you do.K

jowmonty

:j :j :j Hi, I've been a stay at home mum for 15 years then became a single parent 2 years age due to husband leaving. Since he has left I passed my driving test first time am doing a two year course at the Adult Education one day a week and was very lucky got the first job I'd applied for in 15 years!!! It's just one day a week as a retail assistant but I'm loving it, I work with a small group of women who are really friendly. Go for it, do your best and don't worry, you'll be fine.

COPPERTOP34

I have just read you post about going back to work....were you successful? I have been a stay at home mum for 15 years and now want to go back to work. In the time I have spent at home I have educated my self and now have diplomas in social sciences, psychology and forensic science. I have lots of positive attributes to take to a career but no one will give me a chance because of my lack of experience................Any advice????

Savvy_Sue

Voluntary work can be a good starting point. Gets you a recent reference, for starters!

Mum-2-4

Hi all,
Without wishing to hijack this thread, I am in desperate need of help.
I have been a SAHM to 4 children, for the past 10 years.
I have got an interview this week, for a part time receptionist. I'm really worried, firstly, I have nothing to wear, I found my work clothes from 10years ago (hidden in the loft), and they are dated, and the skirt nolonger fits (can't get the zip up). Secondly, what sort of questions will be asked, I always go blank, when asked "what can you offer/why do you think you should get this job".
Any help really appreciated, I feel really out of the work scene, and my confidence is'nt anything like it was when I worked.

doodlehumlucysmum

Just think off all those skills you've developed whilst at home - dealing with arguing children? administering first aid? counselling during heartbreak? running a household with no sleep? organinsing coffee mornings? etc