Dear Miss SmartyPants,

I have been fortunate to be a stay-at-home mom since our daughter was born.  She is in college now, and it’s time for me to get back into the work force.  I had a pretty good job as an administrative assistant before becoming pregnant, but I am extremely rusty after 18 years of doing mom stuff.  I need a jumpstart to get aimed in the right direction.

I’m excited but kind of scared.  Do you have any words of advice for me as to what I need to be doing and thinking about to get a job in these difficult economic times? 

Rusty

Dear Rusty,

I do.  Joblessness in our metropolitan area, which includes Black Hawk, Bremer, and Grundy counties, was 6.4% for August.  That is certainly better than the U.S. unemployment rate of 9.6%; jobs exist for the motivated, prepared person.  There are a number of things to do to get ready for your re-entry into the work force.  For starters: 

Write or brush up your resume.  You will need access to a computer.  The library has computers you can use, and also material on what your resume should include, and how it should look.  Do not be shy about asking librarians for reference materials and help.

Advertise your job search.  Tell everyone you know you are looking for work.  Let them know what kind of work you would like to do.  Networking can pay big dividends.

Sharpen your skills.  If you feel like your job skills have dulled in the years since you worked, do what you need to improve your old skills and, if necessary, learn new ones.  This may include taking some classes at a community college or university.

Make a list of companies where you would like to work.  Before applying, learn all you can about each company.  The Internet will have information about larger companies.  You can learn about smaller companies from people who work there.  Ask more than one person, as everyone will have a different experience.

Make a terrific first impression.  When you go for an interview, be there 10 minutes early.  Be impeccably groomed – hair done, nails manicured (natural or clear polish), polished shoes, and tailored jewelry – nothing flashy.  Find out ahead of time what the company’s employees wear, and dress similarly but just a tad nicer.  Bring copies of your resume, a pad of paper to take brief notes, and a nice pen.  Details matter!

Be yourself.  I know, how can you be someone else?  What I mean is, relax, let your personality come through during your interview.  Prepare ahead of time by reviewing what you can bring to the company, what your strong points are, and why you want to work for that particular company.  Be confident.  Ask relevant questions.  Be attentive.