Tips for Moms Returning to Work Force

Aug. 6 -- If you are a mom returning to the work force, you're probably worried about how the business world has changed since you've been gone, and you may be wondering how to sell yourself to employers.

Steve Viscusi, host of the nationally syndicated radio show On the Job With Steve Viscusi and author of On the Job: How to Make It in the Real World of Work (Crown: Three Rivers Press), has10 tips that he says every mother should know before returning to the work force.

1. Turn that fact that you have been "home raising a family" into an asset, not a liability. You will have a "fresh perspective" and "bring new ideas to the workplace." Tell employers that you will be "less jaded, with an optimistic attitude" as a result of being away from the office for a while.

2. Before the interview, be sure to practice, practice, practice. It's understandable that you will be nervous and maybe rusty with your interview skills. But you need to practice with your husband, mate, partner or children.

Also, here is a tip: Start by interviewing with "temp firms" even though you want a permanent job. Use these interviews for practice. Theses interviews will be less stressful, but will provide a good "dry run." Consider these "practice interviews."

3. There are no "pat answers" to interview questions. If you read something that says there are, rest assured, everyone knows the answer and no one wants to hear that answer. Be yourself. Yes, they will want to know things like strengths and weaknesses, and "What will your former boss tell me about you?" and "Where do you see yourself being in this company in five years?"

There are no right or wrong answers. It is all in "how" you answer the question. Which is why practicing is so important.

3. Dress for work, not the playground. Look professional. Get a sense of the dress code of the company and look like you are ready to go back to work. Do not wear too much jewelry or too many accessories. If you have a huge rock on your finger, take it off. Keep the mink at home. Don't wear anything that will distract the interviewer from concentrating on your skills. Visit the company's Web site to get a feel for what it is about.