So, you’re finally ready to trade in the yoga pants (well, at least during work hours) and jump back into the workforce? Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or a mix of both, just know that you’re not alone. The transition from stay-at-home mom to working mom is a big one, but with the right game plan, you can make it smooth and stress-free. That’s exactly why I put together this checklist—to help you get everything in order so you can step back into your career with confidence.
✅ 1. Grab the Return-to-Work Toolkit
The job hunt is way different when you’re coming back from a career break. Hiring managers might have questions, and you need to position yourself in a way that highlights your strengths, not just your time away. That’s why I created the Return-to-Work Toolkit, packed with:
• Resume & cover letter templates (with real-life examples) tailored for stay-at-home moms
• Interview questions & answers designed to help you confidently explain your career gap
• An informative eBook to guide you through the transition step by step
• A LinkedIn Optimization Checklist to help recruiters find you
• …and so much more!
Or, if you just need a polished resume, you can grab the templates separately here!
✅ 2. Start Looking at Childcare Options
One of the biggest challenges of returning to work? Figuring out who’s going to watch your little one(s) while you’re on the clock. Whether you’re considering daycare, a nanny, or a family member, now is the time to:
• Research your options
• Schedule tours/interviews
• Start the application process (some daycares have waitlists!)
• Do trial runs before your first day to make sure everything runs smoothly
✅ 3. Gather Your Work Essentials
Let’s be real—working moms need more than just a laptop and a cup of coffee. You’ll want to stock up on must-have items to make your transition easier (think: a reliable planner, a stylish but functional work bag, meal-prep containers, etc.). I actually put together a full list of 15 Must-Have Items Every Working Mama Needs—check it out [here]!
✅ 4. Refresh Your Wardrobe
After spending years in comfy loungewear, it’s time to reintroduce yourself to work-friendly outfits. Go through your closet and see what still fits, what needs replacing, and what makes you feel confident. If you’re on a budget, check out second-hand shops or online resale platforms like Poshmark to snag quality pieces for less.
✅ 5. Update Your Skills & Knowledge
Depending on your industry, things may have changed since you last worked. Take time to:
• Brush up on software, tools, or certifications you might need
• Take an online course if necessary
• Read industry news or join professional groups to get back in the loop
✅ 6. Reconnect & Network
Now’s the time to start reaching out to former colleagues, mentors, or even fellow moms who’ve gone through the same transition. A simple “Hey, I’m getting back into the workforce—any advice?” can open doors to job leads and support.
✅ 7. Create a Game Plan for Work-Life Balance
Balancing work and motherhood is no joke, so get ahead of the stress by:
• Planning a new daily routine for yourself and your kids
• Setting up a shared family calendar for school drop-offs, meetings, and activities
• Talking to your partner or support system about how they can help with the transition
Returning to work after being a stay-at-home mom is a huge step, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right prep and resources (like the Return-to-Work Toolkit), you’ll be ready to land that job and rock your new working mom life.
Which step are you tackling first? Drop a comment below—I’d love to cheer you on!
