How to write a CV for a 40-year-old mom

Writing a CV can be a daunting task for anyone, but for a 40-year-old mom, it can present unique challenges.

As a mom, you may have taken a break from the workforce to raise your children or pursued a career path that wasn’t directly related to your current job search. 

However, with the right preparation and guidance, you can create a compelling CV that showcases your skills and experience. In this blog post, we will provide a detailed outline of how to write a CV for a 40-year-old mom.

Preparing to write your CV

Before you start writing your CV, it’s essential to identify the purpose of your CV. For example, are you looking to return to the workforce after a break or switch careers?

Once you’ve determined your objective, the next step is to carefully analyze the job requirements of the position you are interested in. This can involve researching the company and the specific role you’re applying for, reviewing the job description and person specification, and identifying any essential skills or experience required.

This information allows you to tailor your CV to match the role’s requirements. This may involve highlighting your relevant skills and experience or addressing any gaps by showcasing transferable skills or relevant training.

It’s also important to conduct a self-assessment to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This can help you identify areas where you may need to develop your skills or gain additional experience, as well as areas where you can confidently demonstrate your expertise and value to potential employers.

Overall, taking the time to prepare and tailor your CV can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing your desired job.

Formatting your CV

Choosing the appropriate format for your CV is crucial. For example, a chronological format is suitable for those with a consistent work history, while a functional form may be better for those with gaps in their work history.

The CV sections include contact information, professional summary/objective, work experience, education, skills, awards, and accomplishments.

Many people may need help with resume formatting. That’s why you may be interested in getting help from career professionals. Check these Monster resume writing reviews for more information on where to get your resume professionally reviewed, edited, and formatted and how much it costs.

What contact information should you include?

The contact information section of your CV should include your name and contact details, including your phone number, email address, and mailing address.

You can also include links to your professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, to showcase your professional network.

How to write your professional summary/objective

The professional summary/objective is the first section that recruiters and hiring managers will read. Tailor your summary/objective to the job description, highlighting your skills and experience that align with the job requirements. Use this section to showcase your value proposition and demonstrate what you can bring.

Not paying enough attention to the professional summary section is one of the most common mistakes

What to include for your work experience

The work experience section is where you highlight your relevant work experience. List your experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job.

Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements, using action verbs to emphasize your accomplishments. If you have gaps in your work history, consider adding a brief explanation for the gap, such as taking time off to care for a family member.

What to include for your education

The education section of your CV should list your educational background, including any degrees or certifications you have earned.

List your education and training in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. You can also include any relevant coursework or training programs demonstrating your skills and knowledge.

What to include for your skills

The skills section of your CV is where you showcase your relevant skills and abilities. List your skills in bullet points using keywords from the job description.

This section is an excellent opportunity to highlight any transferable skills you have gained from your previous work experience or personal life.

What to include for your awards and accomplishments

The awards and accomplishments section is where you can showcase any relevant awards or achievements that demonstrate your skills and experience.

You can also highlight any volunteer work or community involvement demonstrating your commitment and leadership skills.

Tips for a successful CV

Tailoring your CV to the job description is crucial to a successful job search. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your CV stands out to recruiters and hiring managers.

Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and keep your CV concise and focused. Proofread your CV for errors and typos, and use a professional tone and format.

Finally, seek help if needed. For example, consider asking a friend or family member to review your CV or seek the help of a professional career coach or resume writer.

Write a compelling CV that will help you land the job you want

Writing a CV can be challenging, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can create a compelling CV that showcases your skills and experience.

As a 40-year-old mom, you may have unique challenges. Still, by following the tips outlined in this post and tailoring your CV to the job description, you can stand out as a top candidate. Remember to highlight your strengths and transferable skills, even if they come from personal experiences such as volunteering or caring for your family.

It’s important to approach writing a CV with a positive mindset. Don’t let your age or work history discourage you. Instead, focus on your strengths and the unique perspective and experience you can bring to the table. 

In addition, your time spent away from the workforce raising a family or pursuing other interests can bring valuable skills such as organization, multitasking, and problem-solving.

Writing a CV can be challenging, but it’s a crucial step in your job search. Take the time to prepare and tailor your CV to the job description. Highlight your strengths and transferable skills, and don’t let your age or work history discourage you. If you need help with your resume, don’t hesitate to ask. 

With the right mindset and approach, you can create a compelling CV with no mistakes that showcases your skills and experience and lands you the job you want.