Re-Entry for Dads

Most that is written advising parents on returning to work after time home raising children is targeted at moms. While it is tough for at-home moms to return to work, companies are not surprised when they are faced with a female job candidate with a resume gap.

Men who choose to stay-at-home face bigger challenges. While women may earn some respect for their choice to stay-at-home, men are often stereotyped as lacking ambition and commitment to their career. (Read an article from MSNBC about some of the challenges here). As more men choose the stay-at-home route, acceptance of their decisions should improve. Until then, stay-at-home dads who want to return to work will have to make some additional efforts.

Men should take the same steps women take to stay in the loop in their careers during time at home. Continuing to do some contract work, keeping certifications up and volunteering can help keep skills sharp. Further, when ready to return to work, men should focus on companies that do have family friendly policies and practices. While negative stereotypes will likely still exist, they will face less bias targeting a family friendly company.