Job Skills and Moms

The focus of my book, Job Search for Moms, is assisting moms return to the workforce. While the tips and techniques within the 102 page handbook are meant for any job seeker, many women find it helpful for its brief, to the point worksheets and resources.

The media coverage of the Ann Romney/Hilary Rosen debate and the ensuing outrage over the definition of moms and work continues with the “experts” from around the country defining the skills and competencies that mothers use on a daily basis. These skills, as I mention in the book are sharpened and used on a day to day basis and are critical for success in the workplace. What are these skills? Here are just a few.

Oral and Written Communication Time Management
Problem Solving
Creativity
Negotiation
Interpersonal Skills
Collaboration
Networking
Organizational Skills
Leadership

Now let's add volunteering to the mom mix. Research from the 2010 – 2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook indicates that women “continued to volunteer at a higher rate than men did across all age groups, educational levels, and other major demographic characteristics.” The volunteer rate for parents with children continued to surpass those without children. These volunteer activities expand your skill set (multi-tasking, compromise, project management, time management, prioritization) while adding valuable networking opportunities.

Whatever your station in life, create a chart like the one above but add an extra column to write down specific examples of your use of the skills. You will be amazed at all that you do.

Integrating Critical Skills into the Job Search

The American Management Association recently published a listing of the four critical business skills needed to succeed in today’s work environment. How can you make them work for you in your job search?

The skills are:
1. Critical Thinking
2. Communication
3. Collaboration
4. Creativity

You can include them in your professional skills (again only if you have them and can state accomplishments relating to them) in your resume. You could also add them to your brand or impact statement and your cover letter. Make sure that you can come up with real accomplishments related to these skills.

While preparing for an interview, try to come up with STAR (Situation, Task, Actions, and Results) examples of where you have used these skills. Tie them into your previous work or outside activities. Also, while reviewing any company information, look to see if there are any references to these skills in the organization’s mission and vision statements. Think of ways these skills can be used with the products or services this company provides.

Some last thoughts; while these skills have been around most workplaces forever, many companies are only just realizing the impact they have on company growth and the bottom line. Also, in these days of the leaner workplace, these skills are just plain necessary. Finally,needless to say, don’t overlook the skills and competencies stated in the job description. You may find some overlap.