You’ve spent the last few years at home doing the valuable work of raising children. Now, you’re ready for a new challenge. But how do you go about the daunting task of breaking back into the workforce when it’s been several years since your last official job? A strong stay-at-home mom cover letter is the first place to start.
Here’s how to write a stay-at-home mom cover letter that showcases your skills, highlights your past experience, and helps a hiring manager see that you’re an excellent candidate.
What is a stay-at-home mom cover letter?
A cover letter is a formal document that accompanies a job application alongside your resume. It provides additional information about your background and your motivations for seeking the role to which you’re applying.
When you’re a stay-at-home parent, your cover letter is an important tool to preempt any negative assumptions about the employment gap on your resume. It helps a hiring manager understand the reasons behind your job search and what you could contribute to their company.
Why a cover letter is important for stay-at-home moms
Explains employment gap
Employment gaps can be a red flag, sometimes indicating that a candidate has trouble holding down a job or that their skills are outdated. At the very least, it gives a hiring manager a reason to ask questions.
However, taking time off to raise children is a totally valid reason for a gap in work history. Your cover letter is essential in conveying that you’ve been doing something worthwhile and not just sitting on the couch during your break in formal employment.
Highlights relevant strengths
When positioned correctly, your time as a stay-at-home parent can be an asset to you as a candidate. Your cover letter should demonstrate how you’ve been exercising skills that will serve you in the role, like time management, organization, communication, and critical thinking.
Conveys confidence
Reentering the workforce is a major commitment. A hiring manager wants to feel certain that you’re up for the challenge and secure in your decision to return to work. Your cover letter should convey enthusiasm for the job you’re seeking and confidence in your ability to succeed in this new career phase.
When should you send a cover letter
When you’re re-entering the workforce
Use a cover letter to help you break back into your old industry or start a new one.
When you’re looking for a part-time job
If you’re looking to supplement your household income with a part-time or contract role, a cover letter can position you as a capable, dependable candidate.
What to include in a cover letter as a stay-at-home mom
Introduction
State your name, the job you’re applying for, and any relevant information about how you found the role, like if a current company employee referred you.
Background information
Briefly explain your employment gap and your motivations for reentering the workforce.
Strongest skills
Emphasize the qualifications that make you a strong candidate, giving specific anecdotes to illustrate these skills wherever possible.
Personalization
Your cover letter is different from your resume in that it’s written in your own unique voice. Use this strategically to show the hiring manager your passion, enthusiasm, and investment in the field.
Conclusion
Invite the hiring manager to contact you for further discussion and sign off with a professional closing.
What you should omit
Excessive details
Don’t over-explain your employment gap or share too much information about being a stay-at-home parent, as this may set you apart from other candidates in a negative way.
Sample stay-at-home mom cover letter
Mr. Gagliano,
My name is Cindy Schumacher and I’m writing to be considered for your certified nursing assistant position. Deborah Minor in your rehabilitation department is a close friend who referred me to the job.
I’ve been a stay-at-home parent for the past five years to my two children. During that time, I served as my children’s primary caregiver while managing our household finances, coordinating schedules, preparing meals, and completing housekeeping duties. For the past two years, I’ve volunteered as a patient advocate for Taconic Nursing Center in my spare time, helping patients and their families understand their care and make informed decisions.
Before having children, I spent six years as a CNA at Grand Rehabilitation Center, a job I was passionate about. Now that my children have entered school, I’m eager to return to the workforce and bring my skills as a dedicated, dependable caregiver to a new set of patients. I believe my commitment, organizational skills, and empathetic nature would make me an asset to your team.
Please contact me at 999-000-1234 to discuss the position further. I look forward to speaking with you.
Sincerely,
Cindy Schumacher
Highlighting your relevant skills and experience in a personal letter tailored to the job you’re seeking will help alleviate any concerns about your employment gap and show the hiring manager why you’d be a good fit for the role.