Whether you’ve been away from the workplace for a few months or a few years, returning to work, especially as a parent, can feel like a big leap. The good news? You’re not starting from scratch. You're starting from experience.

At Busy Bee Recruitment, we’re proud to support working parents with their return to the workplace - offering flexible roles, personalised advice, and, most importantly, an understanding ear. Many of our team are parents too, so we get it.

Here’s how to give your CV, confidence, and mindset a boost as you take that next step.

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📝 1. Refresh Your CV (Even If It’s Been a While)

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Your CV is your personal marketing tool - and if you’ve been out of the loop for a while, it might need a little TLC. Here’s where to start:

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✅ Update Your Personal Statement

Craft a few lines at the top of your CV that reflect who you are now; your goals, your values, and your enthusiasm to return to work.

Example:
A motivated and reliable professional returning to work after a career break to raise a family. Highly organised with strong communication skills, looking to re-enter the workforce in a role that supports my strengths and offers growth.

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✅ Include Your Career Break – And Own It

Don’t feel you have to hide your time away from work. A simple, honest line is perfectly acceptable. For example:

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Career Break (2021–2024) – Full-time parent, managing home life, volunteering at school events and developing strong multitasking and time-management skills.

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✅ Showcase Transferable Skills

Think about all the skills you’ve been using, even outside traditional employment. Project planning (hello, kids’ schedules), conflict resolution, budget management… these are all valuable.

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✅ Tailor to the Role

It’s tempting to use one CV for everything, but tailoring each application slightly to the job you’re applying for can make a big difference.

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2. Confidence-Boosting Reminders for Returning Parents

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It’s totally normal to feel a little unsure about getting back into the workplace. Here are a few reminders we often share with candidates:

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⭐ You haven’t fallen behind

Skills evolve, but your foundation is still solid. Many employers value reliability, adaptability, and loyalty - qualities you’ve likely strengthened as a parent.

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⭐ You're allowed to start small

Returning doesn’t have to mean diving into a full-time role straight away. Part-time, school hours, hybrid working - there are more options than ever.

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⭐ Practice makes progress

If you haven’t interviewed in a while, consider doing a mock interview with a friend or with one of our consultants. We’re always happy to help you practice.

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⭐ Celebrate your wins

Got the interview? Celebrate. Updated your CV? Celebrate. It’s all progress, and every step forward is worth recognising.

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3. Balancing Work and Family Life – Without the Guilt

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We won’t pretend it’s always easy, but with a bit of planning and support, work-life balance is possible.

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🕒 Find the Right Fit

Not all roles are created equal. At Busy Bee, we can help you find jobs with:

• School-friendly hours
• Hybrid or remote options
• Employers that understand family flexibility

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🗂️ Plan Ahead (But Be Kind to Yourself)

Yes, routines help, meal planning, calendar syncing, prepping clothes the night before. But so does flexibility. Things won’t always go to plan, and that’s OK.

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🧠 Protect Your Headspace

If you’re working and parenting, you’re already doing a lot. Give yourself permission to say no, to rest, and to take care of your own wellbeing too.

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We're Here to Help

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Whether you're polishing your CV, exploring flexible roles, or simply need someone to talk you through the next step, we're ready when you are.

Our consultants understand the challenges of returning to work after a break, and we’ll always offer advice that’s honest, respectful, and tailored to you.

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📩 Get in touch with us today or browse our latest parent-friendly roles.

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You’re not starting over. You’re just getting started — and we’re with you all the way.