Have you considered returning to the workforce after motherhood? Maybe you stepped away intentionally. Maybe it wasn’t part of the plan (hello DOGE, RTOs and layoffs!). You’ve been working in ways that don’t show up neatly on a resume – managing a household, coordinating schedules or volunteering. Because you have been working this whole time…you just haven’t been getting paid for it.
And now, you’re ready for a change. Maybe your kids are in school, so you’re looking for something that challenges you but still offers flexibility. Or something more structured. Or simply put, something different than the work you do as a mother.
At some point, many moms find themselves asking the same question: What would it actually look like to go back to work?
The skills you’ve been using – time management, negotiation, logistics, multitasking, problem-solving – are not just relevant, they’re valuable. And the challenge isn’t whether you have experience. It’s translating that experience into something employers or clients can recognize. That’s where the right resources can make a big difference.
If You’re Looking for Flexible Roles
One of the biggest barriers to re-entering the workforce is finding a job that actually fits your life—not one that requires you to reshape your entire life around it. That’s where platforms like The Mom Project come in.
The Mom Project connects moms with companies that are specifically looking to hire women returning to the workforce. Many of the roles are flexible, remote, or project-based, which can make the transition feel more manageable.
Similarly, FlexJobs focuses entirely on remote, part-time, and flexible opportunities. It’s a curated job board (which means fewer scams and less noise), and you can filter roles based on exactly what kind of schedule you need.
Another option is Second Shift, which works more like a talent matching service. You create a profile, and they connect you with companies looking for experienced professionals who may not want or need a traditional full-time role.
If You Want to Start with Freelance or Project-Based Work
For many moms, jumping straight into a full-time role doesn’t feel realistic or appealing. Freelancing can be a way to ease back in, build confidence, and generate income on a more flexible schedule.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to offer services based on your existing skills — writing, editing, marketing, admin support, design, bookkeeping, and more.
Freelancing can also help you rebuild recent experience, which makes it easier to transition into more traditional roles later if you choose to.
If You Need Help Rebuilding Your Résumé (or Confidence)
Sometimes the hardest part isn’t finding opportunities, it’s feeling ready to apply for them. That’s where returnship programs and career reentry support can help.
Programs like Path Forward partner with companies to offer “returnships” — short-term, paid positions designed specifically for people reentering the workforce after a break. There’s also iRelaunch, which provides resources, coaching, and job listings tailored to professionals restarting their careers.
These programs don’t just focus on skills, they focus on confidence, too. That piece matters, too! Gain the confidence to know you’re making the right decision – no more imposter syndrome.
If You’re Not Sure What You Want Yet
Not everyone reenters the workforce by going back to what they were doing before. Sometimes motherhood shifts your priorities, your interests, or your capacity in ways that make your previous career path feel less aligned.
If you’re in that space, it can help to explore before committing.
- Take a short online course (marketing, project management, tech skills)
- Try a small freelance project
- Volunteer in a role that builds relevant experience
- Talk to other moms who have made similar transitions
Have you returned to the workforce as a mom? What tips can you share?
